Cleveland Browns vs Houston Texans Odds, and Picks (Jan 13)

• The Browns rested their starters against the Bengals on Sunday, losing 31-14.
• Houston won a thriller in Indianapolis, and went on to claim the AFC South.
• These two teams last met in Week 16, in a game that the Browns won 36-22.

The NFL playoffs are here! Let’s preview the upcoming Browns vs Texans Wild Card matchup. Houston has exceeded every expectation this season, and will aim to keep that up against the similarly scrappy Browns.

How to Watch

• NBC

Preview

Cleveland was locked into the AFC’s 5-seed prior to their matchup against the Bengals, allowing them to rest their starters. Despite a QB carousel that has included Deshaun Watson, PJ Walker, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and Joe Flacco, the Browns have done well this year. Even after losing Nick Chubb, they made the postseason. That is an indication of the success of their defense, which will remain their biggest asset.

The Texans upset the Colts in Indianapolis on Saturday, climbing to 10-7, and clinching a playoff berth a year after going just 3-13-1. On Sunday, the Jaguars lost to the Titans, vaulting Houston into the top spot. After winning the NFC South as a rookie, all eyes will be on star QB C.J. Stroud, who faces a very difficult Browns defense this week. WR Nico Collins has also been exceptional, totalling 195 yards on Saturday.

Prediction

This should be an exciting game between two teams that had breakout seasons. Cleveland saw their first success following the Deshaun Watson trade, but lost him early in the season, having little to do with them winning. A revenge game against Houston would have been exciting, but I expect Stroud to provide more than enough excitement. Ultimately, I see the Browns defense and an experienced Flacco getting the win.

NFL Picks:

• Browns 24, Texans 20 ()