Colts (6-6) at Texans (2-9)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, NRG Stadium, Houston
TV: CBS
Tipico Sportsbook line: Colts by 9 ⁄2
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Colts’ keys to victory: Indianapolis RB Jonathan Taylor can keep defenses off balance and also take the pressure off QB Carson Wentz to move the offense. Taylor was bottled up in the Colts’ first matchup of the season with Houston but exploded with 145 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries. The Colts must work the middle of Houston’s zone defense with TE Jack Doyle (81 yards and a touchdown reception in Week 12) and look for big plays on the outside with WR Michael Pittman Jr. The defense must shut down the run game early and force the Texans to lean more on the pass.
Texans’ keys to victory: When Houston protects the football and plays great defense, it can topple contenders. The passing game must be efficient with the football and avoid negative plays. RB Rex Burkhead has been a feature of the running game, but rookies WR Nico Collins and TE Brevin Jordan need their targets to supplement the run game. Houston’s defense has forced a turnover in each of the past three games, and the trend must continue. Houston failed to record a takeaway in Week 6 at Indianapolis.
Matchup to watch: Colts LB Darius Leonard vs. Texans QB Tyrod Taylor. Leonard, a twotime All-Pro, is a presence. Taylor must know his location on checkdowns and when he scrambles. Leonard had an interception and forced fumble in Week 6.
Who wins? The Texans are playing for culture, while the Colts are playing for the playoffs. Houston can’t stop the run, which is where Indianapolis excels.
Colts, 30-6