Patriots Injuries, Tom Brady Thigh, Too Much to Cover Spread vs. Texans?

Sure the odds of Houston beating the Patriots in New England this Saturday are pretty slim, but the Pats being able to cover a -15.5 spread is a different story entirely especially when one considers the injuries and Tom Brady being less-than-a-hundred-percent healthy.

Odds Stacked Against the Texans Advancing

If history is any indication, the Texans might as well just throw in the towel now as their chances of heading to the Super Bowl are slim to none, especially with Brock Osweiler starting.

As an underdog of 10 or more points, Houston is just 3-12 Straight Up since 1992 while, as a home favorite of 14.5 to 21 points, the Patriots are 9-0 Straight Up since 1992.

This is great for money line bettors looking to wager on New England winning outright.  You will just have to pay a pretty steep price.

Houston as a double digit underdog has gone 8-7 Against The Spread since 1992 but hasn’t been in this position during the past three seasons.

As a favorite of 10 or more points, New England is 6-1 ATS over the last three seasons.

Injuries Could be a Factor in New England’s Ability to Cover

RB LeGarrette Blount isn’t injured but he’s suffering from an illness and did not participate in practice this week.  There is speculation that whatever he has could be contagious as the coaching staff is avoiding Blount contact with other healthy players.

WR Malcolm Mitchell (knee) was limited in practice this week.  Mitchell ranks 6th on the team for receiving yardage at 401.  He is also the leading red zone target.

QB Tom Brady (thigh) practiced in full, but how effective will he be this Saturday remains to be seen.  

- Don Shapiro, Gambling911.com