Texans stifle Rodgers to knock Steelers out of play-offs

The Houston Texans produce a defensive masterclass to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6 and book the final spot in the Divisional Round of the NFL play-offs.

Woody Marks and CJ Stroud celebrate after a touchdown for the Houston Texans against the Pittsburgh Steelers
Woody Marks scored a rushing touchdown for Houston in the final quarter [Getty Images]

The Houston Texans produced a defensive masterclass to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6 and book the final spot in the Divisional Round of the NFL play-offs.

The final Wildcard Weekend game on Monday was expected to be a low-scoring affair and so it proved for three quarters, with Houston leading 7-6.

Then the Texans charged clear with three touchdowns in the final quarter - two of them scored by their league-leading defence.

That made for a dismal end for Pittsburgh quarterback Aaron Rodgers in what could be the last game in the 42-year-old's illustrious career.

After joining the Steelers on a one-year deal, the NFL's four-time Most Valuable Player has said this could be his final season.

And Pittsburgh are now out of the play-offs with Houston, the fifth seed in the AFC, securing a trip to the New England Patriots next Sunday.

More to follow.

What is the Divisional Round schedule?

Kick-off times GMT; Conference seed in brackets

Saturday, 17 January

Buffalo Bills (6) @ Denver Broncos (1) 21:30

San Francisco 49ers (6) @ Seattle Seahawks (1) 01:00 (Sun)

Sunday, 18 January

Houston Texans (5) @ New England Patriots (2) 20:00

Los Angeles Rams (5) @ Chicago Bears (2) 23:30

Category: General Sports