SNF bets: Picks, props, TD scorers for Chiefs-Texans

The Chiefs host the Texans for Sunday Night Football. Both teams are trying to fight their way back into the playoff picture: The Texans are 7-5 and still in the AFC South race, while it feels like the 6-6 Chiefs need a victory to keep their season alive.

Let's get to our pick against the spread, touchdown scorers, and player props for the Sunday nighter.

👉 Check out all of the markets available for Sunday Night Football on theScore Bet here

🏈 Pick: Chiefs (-3.5)

The calendar has flipped to December, meaning it's time for Patrick Mahomes and Co. to start their run. Typically, the Chiefs would have a better record than this, but I still believe they have some tricks up their sleeves.

The Chiefs are 5-6-1 against the spread (ATS) this season but 4-1-1 at home. It should be a cold, tough game under the lights, and I'm not sure the Texans will be prepared coming from their comfy indoor stadium.

The Texans' defense is no joke and could lead them to a deep playoff run, but I still have major concerns about Houston's offensive line and its ability to keep C.J. Stroud upright.

The total of this game is set at 41.5, meaning the betting market expects a lower-scoring affair. But I'll still take my chances with Mahomes at Arrowhead only needing to cover slightly more than a field goal.

NFL news editor Brenden Deeg is our "Anytime TD Guy," providing touchdown scorer props all season long.

🙌 Bet: Anytime TD (+210)

You never see Kelce at these odds, so jump on them while you can. The veteran tight end has looked great in recent weeks, recording 28 receptions for 344 yards and three touchdowns in his last five games. With Kansas City banged up at offensive tackle and Houston boasting the league's best pass rush, look for Mahomes to get the ball out early, which benefits Kelce.

🙌 Bet: Anytime TD (+360)

Let's take a swing on a rookie receiver who's starting to emerge on this Texans offense. He ranks third on Houston in routes run, targets, receptions, and receiving yards over the last four games. Higgins has also scored two touchdowns during that stretch and should get favorable matchups Sunday with Steve Spagnuolo focused on shutting down Nico Collins.

🏈 Bet: Over 22.5 rushing yards

This is a high-leverage game, meaning Mahomes should be more willing to take off and run to keep the chains moving. He's rushed for exactly 30 yards in back-to-back games and has surpassed this number in eight of 12 contests this season.

🏈 Bet: Over 6.5 receptions

Rice has caught seven or more passes in four of six games since returning from suspension, quickly re-emerging as Mahomes' No. 1 target. The Texans are tough to pass on, so he may not rack up a ton of yardage, but the Chiefs will still make an effort to get him the ball and let him try to make plays.

🏈 Bet: Over 13.5 rushing attempts

While he still splits time with Nick Chubb, Marks has become the Texans' featured back. He's had 14 or more rushing attempts in four straight games and should be in line for a heavy workload again as the Texans will attempt to keep Mahomes off the field and kill as much clock as possible.

US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call (800)-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at www.connexontario.ca.