With starters from both teams expected to be in action, NFL experts are keeping a close eye on the first quarter total today, and below you can find out why we're predicting the over.
August 17, 2024 • 08:21 ET • 4 min read
The Houston Texans return home to take on the New York Giants in a game that is expected to see the starting quarterbacks of both teams, with the Texans being slight favorites.
Given the emphasis on offense, my prediction for Giants vs. Texans is that there will be a lot of points scored early on. For more details on today's preseason matchup, check out my NFL predictions below.
Giants vs Texans predictions
My best bet
7.5+ Q1 (+120 on DraftKings)
My Analysis
The New York Giants received some good news this week: Not only will starting quarterback Daniel Jones be back in action for the first time since tearing his ACL in November, but rookie wide receiver Malik Neighbors could also be available to play after spraining his ankle during practice.
The Giants haven't announced how long Jones and the rest of the starting pitching staff plan to play, but the point guard is ready to go.
“I'm ready to play as long as the Dubs want me to,” Jones said. “I don't know (how long he'll be on the field). That'll be a better question for him and how he views the whole situation. But I'm ready to play and I'm looking forward to getting out there.”
While the quarterback has been working with the offensive line and wide receivers in practice, he can't replicate what he'll do in a game, so preseason practice will help him greatly.
“I think I've gotten a little faster,” Jones said. “The pass rush is real. You can get your pass cut in a game. You just have to feel it and be aware of it, but I think it translates to getting the ball out on time and moving well in the pocket. Everything you work on in practice gets tested in a game where you can get cut.”
Coach Brian Daboll said it's “definitely a possibility” Neighbors will play in Saturday's game.
For the Houston Texans, the starters are expected to play at least one quarter against the Giants.
CJ Stroud is coming off an outstanding rookie season. The second-year quarterback completed 2 of 4 passes for 41 yards, including a 34-yard touchdown pass to Tank Dell in the first quarter last week.
Besides Stroud, Davis Mills and Case Keenum are competing for the backup position in Houston, and of course the Texans also have a strong wide receiver corps.
Both teams are expected to come into the game Saturday in Houston with their starting offensive linemen coming in hot and furious.
Giants vs Texans odds
Giants vs Texans live odds
Giants vs. Texans opening odds
Spread: New York +3.5 | Houston -3.5 Moneyline: New York +166 | Houston -199 Over/Under: Over 37 | Under 37
Know the betting trends for Giants vs. Texans
DeMeco Ryans is 3-2 in the preseason as the Texans head coach. Find out more NFL betting trends for Giants vs. Texans.
Giants vs. Texans game information
Location: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas Date and Time: Saturday, August 17, 2024 Kickoff: 1:00 PM ET TV: NFL Network
Giants vs. Texans Weather
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