This Monday night’s NFL Wild Card matchup features the Houston Texans and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Steelers enter with a strong defensive unit, ranking among the league’s best in turnovers forced, and show renewed momentum after winning four of their final five games to claim the AFC North. Pittsburgh hasn’t hosted a postseason game since 2021, and the city has prepared for the moment, bracing for single-digit temperatures and gusting winds that may determine the game’s pace.
Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers leads the Steelers, aiming to maximize an offense that relies on ball control and a strong running game. The defense, steady for much of the season, is especially effective against the run and will be tasked with slowing one of the league’s hottest offenses. The Steelers are 3–1 all‑time at home against Houston, though the teams have not met this season.
Houston Earns Their Spot
Houston arrives with confidence after closing the regular season on a nine‑game winning streak, powered by a defense that finished among the league’s best in yards allowed. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has been efficient and poised. However, tonight’s cold conditions will be a new test for the young QB. The Texans played indoors or in warm climates this season, and C.J. Stroud is winless in starts below 35 degrees, which may influence Houston’s approach.
Online NFL playoff betting sites have named the Texans as 3.0‑point favorites, with an over/under of 38.0, reflecting expectations for a low‑scoring, physical contest.
Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers*
- Spread: TX -3.0 (-105), PITT +3.0 (-115)
- Win: TX -160, PITT +135
- Totals: O38.0 (-120), U38.0 (EVEN)
Betting On NFL Football Online
US bettors have numerous options for betting on NFL football, depending on where they live. While 39 states and Washington, D.C., have authorized domestic sportsbooks, only 32 have passed legislation to license online sportsbooks.
However, all 50 states can access 18+ online sportsbooks operating outside the United States, as there are no state or federal laws prohibiting such access. Online sportsbook account holders often prefer offshore sites as they are not geo-restricted by state lines and typically offer more odds, including in-game props.
How To Watch Tonight’s Wild Card Game
Nationally, the game airs on ESPN and ABC, with Joe Buck and Troy Aikman on the call, and will also be carried on the Steelers Audio Network.
The winner of tonight’s game advances to face the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round. For wider league context and postseason data, the NFL’s official site remains the most authoritative resource for schedules, statistics, and playoff history.
*Odds via Bovada’s online sportsbook
