Houston Texans rebuilding for future: 2014 win total

Exactly a year ago the Houston Texans were hoping Matt Schaub was going to lead Arian Foster and Andre Johnson back to the playoffs. However, injury and ineptitude led to a disastrous season with a 2-14 record.

Now Schaub is gone and there’s a new coaching staff in place. However, on the offensive side of the ball, the Texans have plenty to do. Last year the team ranked 15th in passing and 20th in rushing. It appears Ryan Fitzpatrick at QB isn’t going to cut it. Nor will Case Keenum or rookie Tom Savage. Also, the other question is whether Foster can stay healthy or Davis can remain focused.

The good news is the defense appears to be closer, last year ranking 3rd against the pass and 23rd against the run. That’s why Jadeveon Clowney over a QB or receiver was added in the first round.

Going into this season, the Texans face four playoff teams with an overall schedule featuring opponents boasting a .441 winning percentage last year (the third easiest schedule in the league). Also, the Texans play three sets of back-to-back road games.

Oddsmakers are split. Some have the Texans at -7.5 for o/u wins, while you’ll also be able to find 8 for o/u wins. The former as an over is paying -140 but the latter as an under is at -115. Considering the anemic AFC South (minus the Colts), there are enough potential wins out there for the Texans to have a better-than-expected season.