Story byCole Thompson, Texans WireTue, January 13, 2026 at 5:23 AM UTC·2 min readThe Houston Texans now know their kickoff time and television channel for a date with the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round matchup. Following a 30-6 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday Night Football, the NFL announced that the Texans (13-5) will travel east to take on the Pats in the divisional round on Sunday, Jan. 18 at 2 p. m. Folks won't have to wander for their station since the game will once again be played on ESPN. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHere's the playoff schedule a whole for next week's battle. NFL playoffs schedule (CT)Jan.