Stroud, Texans Favored in AFC South
Over the last decade, every team in the AFC South has won a division title with three different
teams winning in the last three seasons. After essentially going from worst to first, the Houston
Texas are the sexy pick but can the others challenge them for top spot? As we’ve seen before,
nothing is certain in the NFL and any four of these teams could take the crown.
AFC South Division Odds
Houston Texans -115
Quarterback C.J. Stroud had a memorable first season winning Offensive Rookie of the Year
and now the expectations are even higher. Houston added some big offensive names for
Stroud, wide receiver Stefon Diggs, running back Joe Mixon and defensive end Danielle Hunter.
Despite injuries to the offensive line last season, Houston still won the division and now
healthier, it makes the Texans the favorites in the AFC South. DeMeco Ryans and his coaching
staff have turned his franchise around and not only are expected to win the division, they are
considered one of the favorites in the conference.
Jacksonville Jaguars +300
Trevor Lawrence signed a big offseason deal and the Jaguars added first-round pick Brian
Thomas and veteran Gabe Davis, making this offense even better. The offensive line got better
with the addition of center Mitch Morse. Jacksonville made enough changes to add depth
across most positions and should be better overall. New defensive coordinator Ryan Nielson
will look to improve the unit and we could see a breakout season for former first overall pick
Travon Walker. The division could come down to the two games against the Texans, but
Jacksonville should be in contention for a wild card berth.
Indianapolis Colts +350
The Colts saw flashes of brilliance from quarterback Anthony Richardson before an injury ended
his season. He’s exciting but there are flaws to his game including his passing accuracy. The
biggest concern for Indy is the defense. The Colts allowed the fifth most points (24.4) last
season. At the end of the day, the teams’ success hinges on Richardson. We saw a four game
sample where he threw for three touchdowns while running for four. More of that, Indy
competes for the division, but it would be a surprise to see them win it.
Tennessee Titans +900
Big changes and new faces in Tennessee this season and it could be a long year for first-time
head coach, Brian Callahan. The Titans brought in Tony Pollard to replace Derrick Henry who
left for Baltimore. Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd were also acquired in the offseason but there
are still big questions when it comes to quarterback Will Levis. The second year starter was
dead last in completion percentage last season (QB’s with at least 250 passing attempts). The
offensive line’s best player may be JC Latham, so that says a lot. There are some tough road
games including Detroit, Buffalo and Miami, and winning this division is very unlikely for the
Titans.
AFC South Division Odds
Houston Texans -115
Jacksonville Jaguars +300
Indianapolis Colts +350
Tennessee Titans +900