Texans ML

The Texans’ 0-2 start looks worse on paper than it really is. They’ve faced two high-powered offenses without completely collapsing defensively. Dropping to 0-3 in the division feels unlikely with CJ Stroud and DeMeco Ryans at the helm. The Jaguars aren’t nearly as threatening as they’re perceived to be, so I like Houston to clear the moneyline—and I’d even sprinkle on an alternate spread at -2.5.

Must Bets of the Week

Steelers -1.5

The Steelers under Mike Tomlin simply don’t go below .500, and they consistently handle business in winnable road games—backed by Tomlin’s 55-37-1 away record. Against a Patriots team with talent but too much youth to match Pittsburgh’s veteran edge, I like the Steelers at -1.5.

Vikings -3

With backup quarterbacks starting on both sides, the Vikings hold the clear edge thanks to Kevin O’Connell—last year’s Coach of the Year and an offensive mastermind. Justin Jefferson is set up for a huge day against a shaky Cincinnati secondary, while Minnesota’s stout defense should have no trouble containing a Burrow-less Bengals offense.