The Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots matchup is one of the most anticipated games of the 2026 NFL Playoffs, with both teams battling for a spot in the AFC Championship Game. Whether you’re watching on cable, streaming online, or following from outside the U.S., here’s everything you need to know about how to watch Texans vs Patriots live.
Texans vs Patriots Game Details
- Matchup: Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots
- Round: AFC Divisional Round
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
- Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
This playoff showdown features a Texans team looking to continue its postseason surge against a Patriots franchise with a long history of January success.
What Channel Is Texans vs Patriots On?
Fans in the United States can watch Texans vs Patriots live on national television.
- TV Channels: ESPN and ABC
- Coverage: Nationwide broadcast
Both networks will provide full pregame, halftime, and postgame analysis.
How to Live Stream Texans vs Patriots
If you don’t have traditional cable, there are several reliable ways to stream the game live.
Streaming Options (U.S.)
- ESPN App – Stream live with a valid TV provider login
- ABC App – Available in select markets with authentication
- Live TV Streaming Services:
- YouTube TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- Fubo
- Sling TV (select packages)
Mobile Streaming
- NFL+ – Stream the game live on smartphones and tablets (U.S. only)
How to Watch Texans vs Patriots Without Cable
Cord-cutters can still catch every snap of this playoff game. Most live TV streaming services that carry ESPN and ABC offer free trials, making it easy to watch Texans vs Patriots without a long-term commitment.
How to Watch Texans vs Patriots Internationally
Fans outside the United States can watch the game through:
- NFL Game Pass (International) – Available in most countries with live and on-demand playoff coverage
- Local broadcasters – Availability varies by region
Check your local listings for kickoff times and language options.
Texans vs Patriots Radio & Audio Coverage
Prefer listening instead of watching? Audio options include:
- Local Texans and Patriots radio affiliates
- SiriusXM NFL Radio
- Official team apps with live audio coverage
Texans vs Patriots: Why This Game Matters
With a trip to the AFC Championship Game on the line, this matchup carries major playoff implications. The Texans are aiming to prove they belong among the NFL elite, while the Patriots are trying to add another deep postseason run to their storied legacy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re watching on ESPN, streaming on ABC, or following along via NFL Game Pass, there are plenty of ways to watch Texans vs Patriots live. Make sure to tune in early for pregame coverage and analysis before kickoff.