Texans Defeat Colts 38–30 to Secure No. 5 Seed in AFC Playoffs.

The Houston Texans closed the regular season with a 38–30 victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, earning the No. 5 seed in the AFC playoffs and extending their winning streak to nine games. Quarterback C.J. Stroud played only the first half but still contributed two touchdowns—one through the air and one on the ground—before head coach DeMeco Ryans rested several starters. Kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn played a key role in the win, converting a career-high six field goals, including the game-winner from 43 yards with just 12 seconds remaining. Houston finished the season 12–5 and will travel to Pittsburgh for a wild-card matchup against the Steelers. Defensive tackle Tommy Togiai added a late exclamation point by recovering a fumble on the final play and returning it for a touchdown. Although the Texans had a chance to win the AFC South, Ryans chose to rest key players after halftime once it became clear Jacksonville was on track to win its game. Several defensive standouts, including Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, and Derek Stingley Jr., did not play in the second half. With the playoff berth, Houston became just the fifth team since 1990 to start a season 0–3 and still reach the postseason—and the only franchise to accomplish the feat twice.

Indianapolis rookie quarterback Riley Leonard made his first NFL start, throwing for 270 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a score. Despite his performance, turnovers proved costly for the Colts, who dropped their seventh straight game and ended the season at 8–9. Wide receiver Alec Pierce stood out for Indianapolis with four catches for 132 yards and two touchdowns, though he was ejected in the third quarter following an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after making contact with an official. Houston now turns its attention to the postseason, carrying momentum and confidence into its upcoming playoff matchup.