Ravens Insider: Staff picks for Monday night's Ravens-Texans game at M&T Bank Stadium

[ExtremeRavens]

 

How Baltimore Sun reporters and editors see the Monday Night Football game between the Ravens and Houston Texans at M&T Bank Stadium.

 

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Huge game.

Win and they have some hope.

 

 

 

Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens
> Bing Predicts winner: Baltimore (67%)
> Kickoff time: 8:30 PM EDT (Monday)
> Game spread: Baltimore -7.5
> Matchup history: Ravens lead 7-2-0

Despite being inconsistent, the Ravens (5-5) are in the postseason conversation. In fact, if the playoffs started tomorrow, they would be in. They’re coming off a 23-0 shutout of the Packers (at Lambeau Field, no less). If they can top the Texans, it will be their first back-to-back wins since Weeks 1 and 2. The defense, which is the strength of the Ravens, is getting contributions from many, including rookie outside linebacker Matthew Judon who had a pair of sacks and a fumble recovery against Green Bay. Let’s just say quarterback Joe Flacco, who has more interceptions (11) than touchdowns (9) is not having his best year. At least he’s got his health.

The Texans (4-6) were making headway until quarterback Deshaun Watson tore up his knee on Nov. 2. Houston has lost two of three since then. That was just the latest health blow. Defensive end J.J. Watt fractured his leg on Oct. 8. It’s just not been a good season in Houston, and it’s not likely to get better soon.