Houston Texans vs Indianapolis Colts: Watch NFL Week 18 Online Free Live Stream - Time, TV, Channel

Texans and Colts face off in a crucial game with playoff implications. Rookie QB C.J. Stroud is a strong fantasy pick.

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Texans are favored by 1 1/2 points. The last time the Colts and Texans met, the Colts won 31-20 in Houston on September 17, 2023.

One player to watch for the Texans is defensive end Will Anderson Jr., who is expected to play despite an ankle injury. He has seven sacks this season, setting a franchise record for a rookie. For the Colts, quarterback Gardner Minshew is the player to watch. He has already won a career-best seven games this season and securing No. 8 would solidify his status in Indy.

The key matchup to watch is Stroud vs. the Colts pass defense. Despite being sacked six times in the first meeting, Stroud threw for 384 yards and two touchdowns. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley will need to find ways to make Stroud uncomfortable.

In terms of injuries, the Texans may be without DE Jonathan Greenard and WR Noah Brown, while LT Laremy Tunsil is expected to play. The Colts may be missing CB Kenny Moore II and RB Zack Moss, and C Ryan Kelly and LG Quenton Nelson are also on the injury report.

The winner of this game will clinch a playoff berth and the AFC South title if Jacksonville loses. Houston has won six of its past nine games and is 3-4 on the road this season. This is the first time the Texans have not played in the early Sunday time slot since Week 9 in 2022. The Colts have won six of their past eight games, including three straight home games.

In terms of fantasy football, C.J. Stroud looks like a solid play against the Colts' struggling defense, but he has only produced six touchdowns on the road all season. Michael Pittman Jr. could be a sneaky play this week, as he thrives under pressure.

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