This Monday, Jan. 12, two of the AFC’s premier defenses will collide in a game that features a fascinating battle between youth and experience under center. The Texans enter the postseason riding an NFL-best nine-game winning streak, while the Steelers secured their division title in dramatic fashion with a Week 18 thriller over the Baltimore Ravens.
The Matchup: Unstoppable Force vs. Immovable Object
For the Texans, the narrative is all about momentum. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has been surgical down the stretch, leading an offense that has found its rhythm just in time for January football. Houston clinched the No. 5 seed comfortably, but they face a daunting task: winning on the road in Pittsburgh, one of the league’s most hostile environments.
“We know what it’s like to play in Pittsburgh. It’s loud, it’s cold, and their defense feeds off that energy,” Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said Monday. “But we’ve been road warriors all year. We’re ready.”
On the other sideline, Mike Tomlin has done it again. Guiding the Steelers to yet another division title, Tomlin’s squad relies on a defense anchored by T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. The Steelers’ offense, however, will need to keep pace with Stroud. The return of key playmakers from injury late in the season could be the X-factor Pittsburgh needs to defend home turf.
Key Storyline: The Turnover Battle. The Steelers’ defense ranks top-3 in the league in takeaways this season. If they can force Stroud into uncharacteristic mistakes, the “Terrible Towels” at Acrisure Stadium will be waving in full force. However, if the Texans’ offensive line—fortified by the return of their starting tackles—can keep Stroud clean, Houston’s explosive passing attack led by Nico Collins could overwhelm Pittsburgh’s secondary.
Vegas Odds
Spread: Texans -2.5
Over/Under: 39.5
Moneyline: Texans (-140), Steelers (+120)
Odds courtesy of major sportsbooks, subject to change.
đź“ş How to Watch: Steelers vs. Texans
Don’t miss a snap of the final game of Wild Card Weekend. Here is everything you need to know to tune in live.
Game Information:
Date: Monday, January 12, 2026
Kickoff Time: 8:15 p.m. ET (7:15 p.m. CT)
Venue: Acrisure Stadium — Pittsburgh, PA
TV Network: ESPN & ABC (Simulcast)
Announcers: Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (analyst), Lisa Salters (sideline)
Streaming Options:
ESPN+: The game will be available to stream live for subscribers.
Mobile: Stream via the ESPN App or NFL+ (mobile only).
Live TV Services: YouTube TV, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV (Orange package) typically carry ESPN/ABC.
Official Links & Resources:
Pittsburgh Steelers Official Game Center – Live stats, roster moves, and depth charts.
Houston Texans Team News – Injury reports and locker room interviews.
Ticketmaster: Verified Resale Tickets – Last-minute seats at Acrisure Stadium.
