New England Patriots vs Houston Texans
New England Patriots vs Houston Texans

The New England Patriots vs Houston Texans Divisional Round matchup brings together two teams built on discipline, defense, and patience. It may not be the loudest game of the weekend, but it could be the most technically demanding.

For fans, the key question is straightforward: How can you watch Patriots vs. Texans live, legally, and possibly for free?

Unofficial “free NFL stream” sites and social media restreams are illegal, unstable, and often taken down mid-game. They are not recommended.

Game at a glance

  • Matchup: Houston Texans at New England Patriots

  • Round: NFL Divisional Playoffs

  • Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026

  • Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT

  • Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts

  • US TV: ESPN / ABC

How to watch Patriots vs. Texans in the United States

Over-the-air TV (free option via ABC)

This Divisional Round game airs on ABC, which means many US viewers can watch for free with:

  • A digital TV antenna

  • Access to a local ABC affiliate

This is the best true free option for fans without cable or streaming subscriptions. Once your antenna is set up, no login or app is required.

To confirm ABC availability in your area:

Live TV streaming services (no cable required)

If you don’t have an antenna, live TV streaming services that include ABC and ESPN are the most reliable solution.

Services that typically carry both networks include:

  • YouTube TV

  • Hulu + Live TV

  • Fubo

  • DIRECTV STREAM

How to watch:

  1. Confirm ABC and ESPN are available in your ZIP code

  2. Install the app on your smart TV, streaming device, phone, or laptop

  3. Tune in at kickoff time

Most of these services occasionally offer free trials for new users, which is the most realistic “free” streaming path.

ESPN app and website

The game will also stream via the ESPN app and ESPN.com.

Important notes:

  • A TV provider login is usually required

  • ESPN+ alone does not guarantee access to live NFL playoff games

Website: https://www.espn.com/watch

Mobile-only option: NFL+

NFL+ offers live playoff games on:

  • Smartphones

  • Tablets

Limitations:

  • Live viewing is restricted to mobile devices

  • Smart TVs and laptops are not supported for live games

  • Subscription required

Website: https://www.nfl.com/plus

This works best as a backup option if you’re away from home.

Watching Patriots vs. Texans outside the United States

Canada

In Canada, NFL playoff games are carried primarily by TSN.

  • TV: TSN

  • Streaming: TSN+

  • Website: https://www.tsn.ca

Some games may air on CTV, but availability varies. For guaranteed access, TSN or TSN+ is recommended.

Worldwide (outside US and Canada)

The most consistent global option is NFL Game Pass, available through DAZN in many countries.

Website: https://www.dazn.com

NFL Game Pass International typically includes:

  • Live streaming of every NFL playoff game

  • Full replays and condensed versions

  • Multi-device access and multiple commentary options

This is a paid service in most regions but offers the most reliable worldwide coverage.

Game Preview: Patriots vs. Texans

This game is about execution and patience, not fireworks.

Why New England is favored

  • Strong home-field advantage at Gillette Stadium

  • Defensive discipline and situational awareness

  • Comfort winning low-possession, low-scoring games

New England’s defensive structure is designed to take away quick answers and force quarterbacks to string together mistake-free drives.

Why Houston can keep this close

  • A disruptive defensive front that can create negative plays

  • Willingness to play conservatively and trust field position

  • Confidence coming off a successful Wild Card performance

Houston’s path is narrow but real: force one early turnover, stay within one score, and let pressure build on the home team.

Key factors that will decide the game

  1. Third-down efficiency
    Sustaining drives against New England is notoriously difficult. Houston must avoid third-and-long situations.

  2. Red-zone results
    Field goals favor New England. Houston needs touchdowns when opportunities arise.

  3. Turnover margin
    One short field could swing the entire game.

  4. Pace control
    If New England dictates tempo, the Texans will struggle to generate enough possessions to catch up.

Prediction

Expect a methodical, physical contest that tightens as the game goes on.

New England’s experience, home environment, and situational execution give them a clear edge, but Houston’s defense keeps this competitive well into the second half.

Prediction: Patriots 23, Texans 16

Bottom line

You can watch Patriots vs. Texans live and legally:

  • In the US, for free via ABC with an antenna or through live TV streaming trials

  • In Canada, primarily via TSN or TSN+

  • Worldwide, through NFL Game Pass International

You don’t need cable, and with minimal planning, you won’t miss one of the most tactical games of the NFL postseason.