NFL news: Texans destroy Steelers in playoff win
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Crackle.
That was the sound of Houston Texans players colliding with Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers early in the fourth quarter of the Wild Card Round game, causing him to lose the ball. Even though there was still plenty of time left to play, Texans linebacker Sheldon Rankins picked up the ball and raced toward the end zone for what felt like the knockout shot.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) loses control of the ball while being tackled by Houston Texans linebacker Danielle Hunter (55) during the second half of the NFL wildcard playoff football game in Pittsburgh on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)
It was that kind of game for both teams; Houston, struggling defensively, achieved a 30-6 victory. This was the franchise’s first away playoff victory.
There were big hits and little room for error. Houston took a 7-6 lead at halftime thanks to CJ Stroud’s goal to Christian Kirk.
Although the Texans turned the ball over three times between the first half and the third quarter, the Steelers could only muster three points. Houston’s defensive prowess was on display on every shot as Rodgers had little to no time to make a decision.
When he did find time to throw, wide receivers like DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith and Calvin Austin III either dropped the ball or were only a hair’s breadth away. A few of Rodgers’ passes were also deflected.
Houston Texans winger Christian Kirk (13) runs into the end zone for a touchdown while being defended by Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols (26) during the first half of an NFL wildcard playoff football game in Pittsburgh on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)
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Steelers fans booed a lot, making sure the team heard this. Pittsburgh extended its playoff losing streak to seven games.
Texans running back Woody Marks rushed for 100 yards for the first time in his career and a touchdown that secured the victory. Texans linebacker Calen Bullock returned an interception for a touchdown late in the game.
Stroud finished 21/32 with 250 passing yards and a touchdown. The Texans’ defense sacked Rodgers four times. Rankins was good for 1.5 sacks.
The Steelers had almost no offense throughout the game. The team gained 175 yards and a 23-0 lead in the fourth quarter.
Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud throws during the first half of the NFL wild card playoff football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
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Houston will face the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round.
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