Houston Texans vs Baltimore Ravens Prediction & Picks - NFL

Prediction published on 12/25/24, 1:17 PM  by Tyler Doty | Modified on 1/13/26 at 9:02 AM in NFL Picks

The second of two Christmas day NFL games features the Houston Texans hosting the Baltimore Ravens, two teams already qualified for the AFC conference play-offs, in a rematch of the last post-season.

With a record of 9 wins to 6 losses, the Houston Texans have not only qualified for the playoffs, but have also clinched first place in the AFC South division. C.J.Stroud's teammates, who had started the season well, have fallen off the pace in recent weeks, losing 4 of their last 7 games. The most recent defeat for DeMeco Ryans' men came against Chiefs last weekend (19-27), despite putting up a good fight against the defending champions. However, their two previous victories over the Dolphins and Jaguars had enabled the Texans to lock up first place in the division, thus ensuring they would host in the first round of the playoffs next month. In the meantime, it's the reception of a tough opponent that could still be on Houston's road during the post-season, Baltimore.

The Ravens are currently 5th in the AFC, with a record of 10 wins and 5 losses. Conference finalists last year, Lamar Jackson's teammates are just as ambitious this season. And despite a slow start marked by two defeats, John Harbaugh's players have responded perfectly, winning 10 of their last 13 games. The Ravens are on the rise and hope to continue their run of form, but will need to go up another level to challenge the Chiefs. Baltimore proved that they'll be a force to be reckoned with in the coming weeks, with a solid 34-17 win over the Steelers a few days ago.