The Patriots go into their divisional-round playoff game against the Texans as the biggest postseason favorites in 18 years.

It’s not a surprise they are expected to rout Houston for a second time this season, after they shut out the Texans, 27-0, without Tom Brady in Week 3.

With Brady and New England coming off a bye as the AFC’s No. 1 seed, the South-winning Texans are facing stacked odds for a rematch upset.

Here are Sporting News’ predictions and picks for the game.

MORE PICKS, PREDICTIONS:

— Seahawks vs. Falcons

— Steelers vs. Chiefs

— Packers vs. Cowboys

Patriots (-16) vs. Texans pick against the spread

Saturday 8:15 p.m. ET, CBS

Vinnie Iyer (against the spread): Brock Osweiler got a big confidence boost by playing well enough for Houston to get past Oakland. It will be a lot more difficult against a New England defense that will take away the run. Osweiler will be put in uncomfortable downs and distances often against the Patriots’ pass rush.

The Texans’ pass rush comes in hot, but Brady will neutralize it by spreading the field in a short-to-intermediate passing game. As the Texans’ linebackers get worn down trying to chase his targets, the Patriots will then turn to LeGarrette Blount to play the “closer” role with a few long second-half bursts.

Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels will be well prepared for what Romeo Crennel schemes, while Bill O’Brien will be handcuffed with his personnel to try to solve Matt Patricia’s game plan this time.

Patriots win 30-10 and cover the spread.

Texans at Patriots, straight up

David Steele: The Texans’ defense played like the top-ranked unit they are … just against a severely-compromised Raiders offense.

Seeing them match up with Tom Brady and a unit that lacks Rob Gronkowski but still managed to be damn potent down the stretch could be a lot of fun.

When the Texans have the ball, though, not so much fun. Possibly nausea-inducing, actually. Brock Osweiler needs to do two things: remember DeAndre Hopkins is on his team, and get big plays from the defense and special teams. That would be to keep it close.

Patriots, 42-17