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The Cincinnati Bengals have been one of the biggest surprises so far in the 2009 NFL season. After losing their week one game, they have reeled off four wins. This week they will be trying for their longest win streak in 21 years.

The Bengals' four game win streak has been quite impressive, with wins against AFC North powerhouses Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Last week against Baltimore it was a late Carson Palmer 20-yard touchdown pass to Andre Caldwell to put them over the top. To that point Palmer was just average as he finished the game 18-for-31 for 271 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. It was the NFL's leading rusher, Cedric Benson, who led the Bengal offence for most of the day. Benson finished the day with 120 yards and a touchdown. It was the first time the Ravens allowed a 100-yards rusher in 39 games.

With all this said about the Bengals, I actually like the Texans here. Houston looked good in the second half of last week's game against the Cardinals. Before that they dismantled the Oakland Raiders. I think that you are getting some value backing the Texans for [3.10].

When you look at the teams the Bengals have beaten this season they are mainly run first teams. Houston has a very pass-happy offense. I like how this matches up against the Cincinnati defense. Looking at the other side of the ball, Cincinnati should have some success running the ball against the Texans. However, if the game gets into a shootout I like Houston's chances.

With this in mind I like the game to go over the total at 44.5 points. I also like the Texans +3.5 points.