Houston's Defense Smothers the Steelers

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Houston Texans' defense dominated the 4th quarter to kick Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers out of the playoffs on Monday night. It was a close game until the final period when Houston took over to claim victory, 30-6.

Houston's DT Sheldon Rankins returned an Aaron Rodgers fumble 33 yards for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter to break open a tight game, helping lift the Texans to a 30-6 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night. The victory marked Houston’s first road playoff win in franchise history and extended its winning streak to 10.

Houston (13-5) advances to face New England (15-3) on Sunday with a trip to the AFC Championship Game on the line.

The Texans suffocated Pittsburgh throughout the night, holding the Steelers to 175 total yards — including just 81 after halftime.

Pittsburgh managed only two first-half field goals as its long stretch of postseason frustration continued. The Steelers (10-8) have now lost seven straight playoff games.

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud committed three turnovers but also completed a first-half touchdown pass to Christian Kirk, who finished with eight catches for 144 yards. Woody Marks added 112 rushing yards and a late 13-yard score that gave Houston a 23-6 lead with 3:43 remaining.

Rodgers, 40, threw for just 146 yards in what may have been the final game of his 21-year career. The four-time MVP said he will take time before deciding on his future.