### Texans and Jets Clash in Critical AFC Showdown on Thursday Night Football

A significant AFC matchup is set as the Houston Texans face off against the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football. The Texans, currently leading the AFC South with a 6-2 record, are coming off a narrow 23-20 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Conversely, the Jets, who hold a 2-6 record and are tied for third place in the AFC East with the New England Patriots, are looking to rebound from a tight 25-22 loss to the Patriots last Sunday.

Houston has been on a surge, winning four of their last five games. However, they face some challenges heading into the game. Key receivers Stefon Diggs and Nico Collins will be absent; Diggs is out for the season with a torn ACL, and Collins is on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury. On the other side, the Jets will be without linebacker C.J. Mosley, who was ruled out due to a neck injury.

The game, set to kick off at 8:15 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., sees the Jets as 2.5-point favorites according to the latest odds from SportsLine Consensus. The over/under for total points scored stands at 43. For money-line bettors, the Jets are -137 favorites, while the Texans are underdogs at +117.

SportsLine's computer model, known for its accuracy, simulated the game 10,000 times. Since its inception, the model has proven to be lucrative, up more than $7,000 for $100 players on top-rated NFL picks. Heading into Week 9 of the 2024 NFL season, the model is on a 13-5 hot streak for top-rated picks. It has also been consistently successful over the long term, with a 194-134 record on top-rated picks dating back to the 2017 season, and a 48-27 record since Week 7 of 2022.

For Texans' fans, keeping an eye on quarterback C.J. Stroud will be crucial. Stroud, who has thrown for 1,948 yards and 11 touchdowns this season, has been a standout performer. Running back Joe Mixon has also been vital to Houston’s offense, amassing 503 rushing yards and five touchdowns across five games.

Jets’ supporters will look to Aaron Rodgers, who has thrown for 1,896 yards and 12 touchdowns this season despite seven interceptions. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson has been his primary target, with 51 receptions totaling 573 yards and three touchdowns.

Those interested in the game's predictions can visit SportsLine for the model's picks, which are leaning Over the total, forecasting around 44 points, with one side of the spread showing notable value.