Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Houston Texans 11/5/23 – The Week 9 NFL matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Houston Texans is on the horizon. As both teams hover just below .500 with Tampa at 3-4 and Houston at 3-5, the stakes are high to shift the momentum for the rest of the season. For those on the lookout for the top NFL betting picks, this piece promises a deep dive into this anticipated game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Houston Texans
Date & Time: Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET
Location: NRG Stadium
TV: CBS
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Houston Texans 11/5/23 Betting Odds
Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
Buccaneers | +130 | +2.5 (+101) | 40 over (-110) |
Texans | -150 | -2.5 (-121) | 40 under (-110) |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Analysis
Offensively, the Buccaneers under Baker Mayfield‘s guidance have been an engaging team to watch. His impressive totals of 1,600 passing yards and 10 touchdown passes in seven games reveal an abundance of untapped potential; his dynamic partnership with wide receiver Mike Evans (507 receiving yards and five touchdown catches) stands out among them all; but their ground game needs improvement; Rachaad White averaged only 3.3 yards per rush attempt on average; perhaps diversifying their strategies or including more run-pass option plays could boost their offense further.
Defensively, the Buccaneers present both challenges and opportunities. Their recent record against American Football Conference opponents –0-6SU in recent matches–reveals numerous weak spots, especially within their linebacking corps and secondary. This trend raises serious concerns regarding their ability to handle teams with versatile playmakers such as Jaxon Thomas. While their defensive line has shown moments of brilliance by pressuring quarterbacks and closing rushing lanes effectively, while containing deep threats while keeping short passing plays from turning into big gains is key for their defense.
Houston Texans Analysis
C.J. Stroud has led an exceptional Texans offense this season. Amassing 1,800 passing yards with a 60.3% completion rate and amassing 577 receiving yards overall, Nico Collins stands out. Collins averages 17.5 yards per reception while making 577 receptions–his ability to stretch the field and make contested catches makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. But similar to Buccaneers, Texans’ ground game raises eyebrows; even consistent performer Dameon Pierce has not managed significant yards indicating there must be either more varied rushing attack options or better offensive line play from team.
Defense for Houston has been difficult. Their recent home record of 2-8 SU suggests they may have problems both front seven and secondary; although they’ve managed to put pressure on quarterbacks, their secondary often gives up yards to agile wide receivers. If Houston wants any chance against Tampa Bay they must adopt an aggressive defensive strategy by adding more blitz packages into their plans as well as tight and responsive man-to-man coverage.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Houston Texans Against the Spread
The Buccaneers’ recent performances indicate betting challenges; they are 5-10 ATS in their last 15 games and have consistently fallen short on the road. Moreover, they’ve seen the total go UNDER in 5 of their last 5 games.
The Texans, on the other hand, seem promising with a 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. Though they’ve faced struggles at home, they’ve consistently seen the total go UNDER in recent matchups, suggesting their games lean towards being low-scoring.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Houston Texans Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Buccaneers +130
Given the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offensive potential, they have the edge over the Texans.
Spread: +2.5 (+101)
Despite the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ recent struggles, they have the offensive firepower to keep the game close.
Total: 40 under (-110)
Both teams have seen a consistent trend of games going UNDER, indicating a potentially lower-scoring affair.
Predicted Score: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 21, Houston Texans 17
To conclude, while both teams come into this matchup with their own set of challenges, the Buccaneers seem to have a slight edge, particularly in their offensive unit. For those scouting the best betting sites in Canada, it would be prudent to monitor the odds as the game day approaches to secure the best value on your bets.