The Houston Texans vs. Minnesota Vikings betting odds opened at Vikings -3 ½ and that line has since moved to -4 ½.  Houston stands to make it to the .500 mark this weekend after starting the season 0-4 so this is a very important game for a team that has won 3 straight.

Houston has the edge here in most major categories so it is unusual that they would be listed as an underdog of more than 3 points.

The Texans totaled 384 yards, including 143 from WR Andre Johnson, in a 35-6 rout of the winless Bengals at home.

Quarterback Matt Schuab's turnaround has played a key role in Houston's success.  His numbers the first two games of the season: one touchdown, five interceptions, 60.8 completion percentage and a 57.8 passer rating. In last four games: Nine touchdowns, two interceptions, 73.6 completion percentage and a 114.8 passer rating. Schaub's play is the biggest reason for Houston's current three-game win streak.  The Texans have been averaging 29.2 points over their last five games.

If the Texans are to maintain their winning streak, they'll have to continue lighting it up through the air. Through seven games, the Vikings have allowed a total of 495 rushing yards -- 70.7 yards per game. Led by the tackle tandem of Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, Minnesota's second-ranked run defense has not allowed a 100-yard rusher this season.

The Texans last three wins have all but at home but they nearly beat Jacksonville in an overtime game on the road during Week 4.  Minnesota has played well at home.

Houston is # are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 road games and are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games on turf.  The Vikings are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games overall and 0-4 ATS vs. a team with a losing record.

While Houston looks like a good bet here, there is not enough past head-to-head history to make an accurate prediction here.

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Dan Shapiro, Gambling911.com