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Crunch.
That was the sound of Houston Texans players colliding with Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers early in the fourth quarter of their Wild Card Round game, causing him to lose the ball. Texans defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins picked up the ball and ran it into the end zone for what looked like a game-tying play, even though there was still plenty of time left in the game.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) loses possession of the ball as he is tackled by Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) during the second half of an NFL playoff football game, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)
It was that kind of game for both teams – a defensive struggle – as Houston rolled to a 30-6 victory. It was the franchise’s first road playoff victory.
There have been big successes and little room for error. Houston had a 7-6 halftime lead thanks to a CJ Stroud touchdown pass to Christian Kirk.
Even though the Texans turned the ball over three times between the first half and third quarter, the Steelers were only able to muster three points. Houston’s defensive prowess was on display on every snap as Rodgers had little to no time to make a decision.
When he had time to throw, wide receivers like DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith and Calvin Austin III either dropped the ball or were just a hair away. Rodgers also had a few of his passes deflected.
Houston Texans wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) runs toward the end zone for a touchdown while defended by Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Brandin Echols (26) during the first half of an NFL playoff football game, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)
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Steelers fans let the team hear it with lots of boos. Pittsburgh extended its playoff losing streak to seven games.
Texans running back Woody Marks ran for 100 yards for the first time in his career and scored a touchdown to truly seal the victory. Texans defensive back Calen Bullock returned an interception for a touchdown late in the game.
Stroud finished 21 of 32 with 250 passing yards and a touchdown pass. The Texans defense sacked Rodgers four times. Rankins was good for 1.5 sacks.
The Steelers had virtually no offense throughout the game. The team was held to 175 yards and outscored 23-0 in the fourth quarter.
Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud throws during the first half of the NFL playoff football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, 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.
