The Houston Texans (2-0) face a tough test against the Minnesota Vikings (2-0) in Week 3, and they’ll have to manage without their top two running backs.
Joe Mixon, the team’s leading rusher, will miss the game after suffering an ankle injury in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears. The injury occurred on a controversial hip-drop tackle, and though Mixon briefly returned, he’s now officially ruled out. Backup Dameon Pierce is also sidelined with a hamstring issue, leaving third-stringer Cam Akers to take the bulk of the carries.
Akers will get a chance to shine, but his rushing total is set at just 60.5 yards with 15.5 carries. With the Texans’ running game limited, C.J. Stroud is expected to carry the load through the air.
Best Bets for Texans at Vikings
Here’s a breakdown of my top prop bets for the Texans-Vikings matchup.
C.J. Stroud Over 22.5 Completions, Over 262.5 Passing Yards: With the running game in question, Stroud should see plenty of passing opportunities. Expect him to exceed both his completion and yardage totals.
Stefon Diggs Over 48.5 Receiving Yards, Over 4.5 Receptions: Diggs will be a primary target for the Vikings, and with this relatively low yardage line, he’s a strong play to go over in both receptions and yards back in Minnesota where he started his career.
Nico Collins Over 74.5 Receiving Yards, Over 5.5 Receptions: Collins is emerging as Stroud’s favorite target, and he should be in for another big day, especially with the Texans needing to move the ball through the air.
Tank Dell Over 51.5 Receiving Yards, Over 3.5 Receptions: Dell is another key part of the Texans' aerial attack. Look for him to hit these modest totals, especially if the Vikings' defense focuses on slowing down Collins and Diggs.
Game Total: Over 46 Points: With key offensive players missing for Houston, this game has the potential for points through the air. Stroud’s passing volume, combined with the Vikings’ ability to move the ball and their willingness to throw, makes the over 46 points an appealing bet.
While the Texans' backfield is decimated, their passing game presents multiple betting angles, and taking advantage of Stroud’s expected passing volume could be a profitable approach in Week 3.
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