NFL betting handicappers can rest now that the Dallas Cowboys have proven that the world is in fact not going to hell in a hand basket after their win at Houston.
America’s and Texas’ Team
There was question heading into their week three matchup at Houston whether or not the Cowboys would have to settle for second spot in the state of Texas but that was not to be the case as they scored a 27-13 payout to easily cover the NFL bet as 1.5 point dogs with the game going under the total. Dallas took a 7-3 2nd quarter lead and was never headed as they at one time led 27-6 in the 4th quarter. Tony Romo had his best day of the season so far as he passed for 23-30 good for 284 yards and 2 touchdowns with 0 interceptions as he outperformed his highly touted Houston counterpart Matt Schaub who finished 23-32 for 241 yards with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions. Roy Williams stood out as the big target for Romo as he had 5 catches for 117 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Turning Down the Heat
There was plenty of pressure on Dallas after their 0-2 start and a third consecutive loss to begin the season would have been catastrophic after they were one of the SBG preseason favorites to make the Super Bowl, which is played at Cowboys Stadium in February. The calls for the head of Coach Wade Phillips will ease, at least for one week.
The Defense Rests
Phillips’ defense was a big reason for the NFL betting payout as it forced three Houston turnovers and held one of the best offenses in football to just 340 yards. Phillips got a lot of credit for the defensive improvement of the team last year and seems to rise to the occasion in leading the unit when under fire.
Reality Check for Both Teams
Dallas was not as bad as their 0-2 start and now can build on their first win. The ground game remains a concern as it ranks 25th in the league but Romo’s passing attack ranks 3rd best in the NFL. Houston is still very much a NFL bet contender to make the AFC playoffs for the first time in franchise history but their 31st rankled defense must tighten up for that mission to be completed.