NFL Predictions 2009: Last season, the Houston Texans finished with an 8-8 record for the second year in a row; however, they closed out their schedule as one of the hottest teams in the league, winning five of their last six games. Head Coach Gary Kubiak can only hope his squad carries that momentum into the start of the 2009 football season. Oddsmakers at BetUS.com are anticipating that the team will be even more formidable this year. The Texans season win total in the bookmaker's Houston Texans NFL Predictions 2009 is set at 8 with the over favored at -135 moneyline odds. 
The Texans return all the major components that contributed to a high powered offensive attack last year. Houston average a modest 21 points per game (17th in the league), but they churned out 382.1 yards per game, which ranked third in the league. Turnovers (the club was -10 in turnover margin) and a 45.9 percent red zone touchdown percentage were both factors in the lower point total.
If quaterback Matt Schaub and his compatriots can protect the ball a little better, there is no reason this unit cannot post at least 25 points per game. Wideouts Andre Johnson, who had 115 receptions for 1575 yards in 2008, and Kevin Walter return as well as tight end Owen Daniel and running back Steve Slaton. The offensive line was solid a year ago and all five starters return for 2009.
Houston's weak link last year was a pourous defensive squad that gave up over 335 yards and 24.6 points per contest. They were particularly soft against the run, allowing 122.6 rushing yards per outing.
The Texans did quite a bit of shuffling in the off-season in an effort to get their defense up to speed with their talented offense. They selected standout USC linebacker Brian Cushing with their first pick in the draft and they added linebackers Cato June and Buster Davis through free agency. The club also signed defensive linemen Antonio Smith and Shaun Cody.
Houston has some potential on defense with Mario Williams anchoring the line, but they need another pass rusher to step up. If the additions at linebacker can help shore up the run defense, this unit has a chance to be average to slightly above.
The Texans do have tough road to plow in a competitive AFC South, but three of their first four games are at home against highly beatable opposition (Jets, Jaguars, Raiders). A good start might make all the difference for this team in 2009.
BetUS.com Houston Texans NFL Predictions 2009 – Super Bowl Odds 2010
Houston Texans Season Win Total:
Over 8 (-135)
Under 8 (+105)
Houston Texans Odds to Win the AFC South Division:
+325
Houston Texans Odds to Win the AFC Championship:
+1800
Houston Texans Super Bowl Odds 2010:
+3500
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