Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/15/2024 1:00 PM EST

We have your Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Miami Dolphins hit the road to face the Houston Texans.

Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Miami Dolphins +128 (BetRivers) / Houston Texans -150 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: -3.0 - Miami Dolphins -118 (BetRivers) / Houston Texans -104 (BetRivers)
Best Total Odds: 47.0 - Under -112 (BetRivers) / 46.5 - Over -115 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: 12/15/2024
Time: 1:00 PM EST
Location: NRG Stadium (Houston, TX)
TV: CBS

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

In the past three seasons, the Miami Dolphins and the Houston Texans have faced each other once, with the Dolphins emerging victorious. This game took place on November 27, 2022, with Miami playing at home. The Dolphins, as the home team, were favored to win, and they successfully covered the spread. The game did not exceed the over-under line, resulting in an under. The Dolphins' win was decisive, and they managed to cover the spread, while the Texans failed to do so. This matchup saw the home team winning, with the visiting team unable to secure a victory.

In the most recent game between these two teams, the Miami Dolphins defeated the Houston Texans with a final score of 30-15. The Dolphins' scoring was highlighted by a strong second quarter, where they scored 20 points, including a 4-yard touchdown pass from Tua Tagovailoa to Durham Smythe, a 3-yard rushing touchdown by Jeff Wilson Jr., and a 16-yard fumble return touchdown by Xavien Howard. The Dolphins' defense played a crucial role, forcing three turnovers and scoring a defensive touchdown. Tua Tagovailoa passed for 299 yards and one touchdown, contributing significantly to the Dolphins' total of 339 yards. The Texans, on the other hand, struggled offensively, managing only 210 total yards and a 3rd down efficiency of 15.4%.

The Dolphins' defense was particularly effective, recording two interceptions and five sacks, which limited the Texans' offensive output. Houston's quarterback, Kyle Allen, threw for 215 yards and one touchdown but was also intercepted twice. The Texans' scoring came in the second half, with a 3-yard rushing touchdown by Dare Ogunbowale in the third quarter and a 25-yard touchdown pass from Allen to Jordan Akins in the fourth quarter. Despite these efforts, the Texans were unable to overcome the deficit created by the Dolphins' dominant first half. The game underscored the Dolphins' ability to capitalize on turnovers and maintain a strong defensive presence, which will be a key factor to watch in their upcoming matchup.

Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans Preview

The Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans are set to clash in a pivotal Week 15 matchup at NRG Stadium, with both teams eyeing crucial playoff implications. The Dolphins, who have turned their season around after a sluggish start, come into this game with a 6-7 record, having won four of their last five games. This resurgence has been fueled by improved performances from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and a more cohesive team effort, despite earlier struggles due to Tagovailoa's concussion and Tyreek Hill's inconsistent production.

On the other side, the Texans, sitting at 8-5, have maintained their lead in the AFC South but have shown vulnerabilities, going 3-4 since their impressive 5-1 start. Houston's quarterback, C.J. Stroud, has experienced a slight dip in form compared to his rookie season, yet the Texans remain a formidable force, especially at home where they have historically dominated the Dolphins. The Texans' defense will need to step up, as they face a Miami offense that has been finding its rhythm.

Both teams have significant stakes in this game. For the Texans, a victory coupled with a Colts loss to the Broncos would secure their second consecutive AFC South title. Meanwhile, the Dolphins are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive, needing a win to stay in contention for an AFC wildcard spot. The Dolphins' defense, which has been shaky in recent weeks, will be tested against a Texans team that can capitalize on turnovers and control the clock with their offensive weapons.

Injury concerns loom over both squads, with the Texans listing 10 players on their injury report and the Dolphins 15. This could play a crucial role in the outcome, as depth and adaptability will be tested. The Dolphins' recent form suggests they are capable of pulling off an upset, especially if they can exploit the Texans' recent inconsistencies. However, the Texans' home advantage and their ability to perform in high-stakes games make this a compelling matchup.

As the Dolphins and Texans prepare to face off, the game promises to be a tightly contested battle with playoff implications on the line. Both teams will need to bring their best to secure a victory in what could be one of the most exciting games of the week.

Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans Pick: Miami Dolphins Against the Spread

As the Miami Dolphins prepare to face the Houston Texans in a crucial Week 15 matchup, the case for backing the Dolphins against the spread is compelling. Despite being underdogs, the Dolphins have shown significant improvement in recent weeks, winning four of their last five games. This resurgence has been driven by the return to form of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who has overcome early-season struggles, including a concussion, to lead his team back into playoff contention. The Dolphins' offense, bolstered by Tagovailoa's leadership and Tyreek Hill's potential for explosive plays, poses a formidable challenge to the Texans' defense.

While the Texans have maintained their lead in the AFC South, their recent form has been inconsistent, with a 3-4 record since their strong start to the season. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has not quite matched his rookie season's performance, and the Texans have shown vulnerabilities, particularly in their recent home games. The Dolphins, on the other hand, have capitalized on their opponents' weaknesses, as evidenced by their ability to force turnovers and maintain a strong defensive presence in previous matchups.

Moreover, the Dolphins' recent history against the Texans is favorable. In their last encounter, Miami secured a decisive 30-15 victory, demonstrating their ability to exploit Houston's defensive lapses. The Dolphins' defense was particularly effective in that game, recording two interceptions and five sacks, which limited the Texans' offensive output. This defensive prowess will be crucial as they aim to disrupt Stroud and the Texans' offense once again.

Injury concerns for both teams could play a significant role in the outcome, with the Texans listing 10 players on their injury report and the Dolphins 15. However, Miami's recent form and their ability to adapt to challenges suggest they are well-equipped to cover the spread. The Dolphins' motivation to keep their playoff hopes alive, combined with the Texans' recent inconsistencies, makes Miami a strong pick against the spread in this pivotal matchup.

Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans Top Player Prop Picks

C.J. Stroud Over 1.5 Passing TDs +122 (FanDuel)

C.J. Stroud has been a pivotal force for the Houston Texans, and despite a slight dip in form compared to his rookie season, he remains a key player in their offensive strategy. The Texans are favored to win against the Miami Dolphins, and Stroud's ability to find the end zone will be crucial in securing that victory. The Dolphins' defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in recent weeks, which Stroud can exploit. Given the Texans' need to clinch the AFC South title and the Dolphins' shaky defense, betting on Stroud to throw over 1.5 touchdowns at +122 odds presents a valuable opportunity.

Tyreek Hill Over 5.5 Receptions +105 (BetMGM)

Tyreek Hill's potential for explosive plays makes him a constant threat on the field, and with the Dolphins fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive, he will be a focal point in their offensive game plan. Hill has been inconsistent earlier in the season, but his recent performances have been pivotal in Miami's resurgence. The Texans' defense, while formidable, has shown lapses that Hill can capitalize on, especially with Tua Tagovailoa back in form. At +105 odds, Hill surpassing 5.5 receptions is a strong play, given his ability to break open games with his speed and agility.

Tua Tagovailoa Over 0.5 Interceptions -130 (bet365)

Tua Tagovailoa has been instrumental in the Dolphins' recent turnaround, but he has also been prone to mistakes under pressure. The Texans' defense, despite its inconsistencies, has the capability to force turnovers, as evidenced by their historical performance against Miami. With the stakes high for both teams, Tagovailoa will be under significant pressure to perform, which could lead to risky throws and potential interceptions. At -130 odds, betting on Tagovailoa to throw at least one interception is a prudent choice, considering the Texans' ability to capitalize on such opportunities.