New England Patriots at Houston Texans: preview, free NFL tip and injury report

Free NFL picks, tips and predictions for New England Patriots at Houston Texans in Week 13 of the NFL.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Action, 1.20am Sunday night

Best bet

New England -3
1pt 20-23 Ladbrokes, Coral

Game preview

As the end of the season draws closer New England and Houston are under pressure to win and keep their seasons on track.

The Patriots are targeting the top seed in the AFC to ensure their playoff football will be played on home soil, while the Texans have Indianapolis and Tennessee breathing down their necks in a fiercely competitive AFC South.

Apart from their defeat to Baltimore, New England’s defence have kept their opponents to 14 points or fewer and that rigidity is likely to make the difference.

They have consistently shut down the passing game, meaning the onus could fall on Houston running back Carlos Hyde to move the chains for his team. However, he has rushed for more than 100 yards just once in his last five games and scored one touchdown in that period.

Houston’s defence have only five interceptions this season, the third-fewest in the league, while they have allowed 22 passing touchdowns. That could put them on the back foot against Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, who can help his side to another routine victory.

For more American sports analysis and tips, visit www.pickswise.com

The lowdown

Venue NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Surface Artificial
Weather Indoor
Vegas handicap New England -3.5
Vegas points line 45

Injury report

New England
The Patriots have 16 players listed as questionable, with cornerback Stephon Gilmore, wide receiver Julian Edelman and linebackers Jamie Collins and Kyle van Noy among those named.

Houston
Defensive end Carlos Watkins (hamstring) is out, while offensive lineman Tytus Howard (knee) is doubtful. Cornerback Gareon Conley (hip) is questionable.

Key stat

New England have won their last eight games against Houston.

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