The Houston Texans are set to face off against the New England Patriots on Sunday, January 18, at 2 p.m. CST (3 p.m. EST) at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This matchup comes on the heels of the Texans’ impressive 30-6 Wild Card victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In that playoff game, the Texans’ defense made history, becoming the first NFL team since the 1940 Chicago Bears to achieve multiple defensive touchdowns while allowing none in a postseason game. With this momentum, Houston aims to maintain their defensive prowess as they step into one of the most challenging environments in professional football, seeking a berth in the AFC Championship.
Texans Pursue Historic Milestones
The 2025-26 Houston Texans are on the brink of several significant achievements this Sunday. A win against the Patriots would mark the franchise’s first-ever appearance in the AFC Championship. The path to this potential milestone has been remarkable; after starting the season with three consecutive losses, the Texans could become the first team in NFL history to reach a conference championship game after such a poor beginning.
Additionally, head coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud have a chance to join an exclusive group in NFL history. Should they secure a victory, they would become only the ninth head coach-quarterback duo to reach the AFC Championship within their first three seasons together.
Injury Report: Key Absence for Texans
The Texans will face a significant setback on offense as star wide receiver Nico Collins has been ruled out due to a concussion sustained during the win over Pittsburgh. Collins has been a vital player for Houston this season, recording 71 receptions for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns, making him only the third player in Texans history to achieve three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.
In Collins’ absence, Stroud will depend on a receiving corps that includes Christian Kirk, Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, Dalton Schultz (tight end), and Xavier Hutchinson.
Viewing Information
<p fans can catch the exciting divisional round action live, as the game will be broadcast nationally:
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
- Time: 2 p.m. CST / 3 p.m. EST
- TV Channel: ABC and ESPN
- Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
For fans in Houston, the team will host a sold-out watch party at NRG Stadium, where local supporters will gather to cheer on the Texans in their quest for history.
