In Texas, at least when it comes to NFL betting lines action, there is only one team. But that could be changing quickly as the Houston Texans are on the cusp of becoming a playoff team and the Dallas Cowboys, despite having a star-studded roster continually find new and creative ways to fall apart at the seams.

When the Texans play host to the Cowboys in Houston this weekend you can sure that every football fan in the Lone star State will be tuned in. Kickoff for this Saturday matchup is set for 8:05 Eastern Time and sbg sportsbook opened with the Texans as a 3-point favorite with an over/under total at 40.5.

For the entire existence of the Houston franchise this team has played second-fiddle to the Cowboys, and with reason. Every sport betting fan knows about the Cowboys illustrious collection of Super Bowl trophies and team like the Texans that yet to even make the playoffs can hardly compete with that kind of legacy.

But things are quietly changing and the upcoming betting NFL preseason battle should be a good litmus test for the Texans, at least in the first few quarters when starters battle starters.

Houston’s offense is lead by Matt Schaub the top passer in the NFL last season with 4,770 yards last season. His go-to guy down field is Andre Johnson, the leading receiver in the NFL last season (1,569 yards), who is arguably the best WR in the game and will no doubt create problems for a thin Cowboy secondary. The Texans’ running game is a constant question mark for this team and is point of concern heading into the regular season action.

On defense the Texans are also becoming a force with several pro bowlers on the roster and middle of the pack ranking after the 2009 season.

Still, the Cowboys remain the team to beat in Texas. This is a talented roster with a Pro Bowl QB in Tony Romo and a very talented roster. However, the Texans (9-7) just missed the playoff last season the Cowboys have some question marks of their own in their pass coverage unit at the receiver position.
The Texans should win at home in this dress rehearsal game but we won’t know who the real top team in Texas is until after the regular season ends.