Jeff Zrebiec's scouting report: Ravens vs. Texans

RAVENS INTANGIBLES: After avoiding key in-season injuries through the first five games, the Ravens' already reeling defense was decimated last week with Lewis and Webb going down for the season and Haloti Ngata, Ma'ake Kemoeatu and Smith also getting banged up. The Ravens, however, have thrived in the face of adversity under fifth-year coach John Harbaugh. They also have won 10 of their last 11 games against AFC foes . Their spotty play on the road does remain a major concern.

TEXANS INTANGIBLES: Motivation should be extremely high for Gary Kubiak's team. They are 0-6 all-time against the Ravens, including the defeat last season in the AFC divisional round. They also are coming off a 42-24 throttling at home at the hands of the Packers. A victory would give them early sole possession of the top seed in the AFC and their best start in franchise history at 6-1.

EDGE: EVEN

PREDICTION: The Texans have been waiting for their shot at the Ravens since the playoff loss in January. This time, they get them on their home field and without several of the Ravens' top defensive players available to play. The bet here is that the Ravens' defense puts forth an inspired performance for a while, but it wears down in the end. Houston was embarrassed on its home field last week and I can't see it happening again. A 5-2 record heading into the bye week is not a bad spot to be in. Texans, 31-20