The Houston Texans secured their first-ever road playoff victory, dominating the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6. Veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins scored a crucial fumble-return touchdown, and the Texans' top-ranked defense stifled Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers, extending Pittsburgh's playoff losing streak to seven games and leaving Rodgers' future uncertain.
The Houston Texans made franchise history by securing their first road playoff win, defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6. The victory was spearheaded by the NFL's best defense, which limited Pittsburgh to just 175 total yards. Sheldon Rankins returned a fumble 33 yards for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter, breaking open a tight game, while Calen Bullock sealed the win with a 50-yard pick-six off Aaron Rodgers, potentially marking the end of Rodgers' illustrious career. Despite C.J. Stroud turning the ball over three times, he also threw a first-half touchdown pass to Christian Kirk, and Woody Marks added 112 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Texans, now 13-5 and on a 10-game winning streak, are eager to prove they are championship contenders and will face New England next. For the Steelers, coach Mike Tomlin tied an NFL record with seven straight playoff losses, and Rodgers, who passed for only 146 yards, is contemplating retirement after a disappointing end to his 21st season. Pittsburgh's inability to capitalize on Houston's turnovers ultimately cost them, extending their nearly decade-long playoff drought and setting up an offseason of critical questions.
