Texans Clash with Patriots in AFC Divisional Round Playoff Showdown

The Houston Texans and New England Patriots are set to face off in a highly anticipated AFC Divisional Round playoff game on January 18, 2025. This matchup marks a pivotal moment in the NFL playoffs, as both teams look to secure their place in the next round. The game will kick off at 3 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live across various platforms globally.

The Patriots have enjoyed a remarkable season, finishing with a 14-3 record, tying them with the top-seeded Denver Broncos in the AFC. Under the leadership of new Head Coach Mike Vrabel and with young quarterback Drake Maye at the helm, the Patriots have displayed a revival reminiscent of their past successes. This year marks their first advancement past the Wild Card round since their 2018 season, which culminated in a Super Bowl victory.

Conversely, the 12-5 Texans, currently second in the AFC South, are eager to make amends after their exit in last year’s divisional game against the Kansas City Chiefs. The last time these two teams met was in 2024, where the Texans triumphed with a dominant 41-21 victory.

For fans looking to watch the game, there are several options available depending on their location.

Viewing Options in the United States

In the United States, the Texans vs. Patriots game will be available on ESPN. The broadcast will begin with a postseason NFL Countdown at noon before the game kicks off at the scheduled time. For those without cable, multiple streaming services offer access to the game.

ESPN Unlimited provides a direct streaming option for $30 per month, including access to various ESPN channels. Alternatively, DirecTV MySports offers a five-day free trial, allowing new users to access ESPN and other sports channels for $70 per month. Similarly, Fubo Sports + News includes ESPN in its lineup, with subscriptions starting at $56 per month and a five-day free trial for new users.

For mobile device users, the game will also be available through NFL Plus, starting at $7 a month. However, this option is limited to mobile viewing.

International Streaming Availability

In the UK, viewers can catch the game on DAZN, which offers an NFL Game Pass with various subscription options. In Australia, the game will air on 7Mate and can be streamed for free via 7Plus, with users only needing to create an account. New Zealand viewers can access the game on TVNZ+, also free with account registration.

For those traveling or living outside their home countries, using a virtual private network (VPN) can allow access to local streaming services. This technology enables users to alter their device location, ensuring they can enjoy the game as if they were at home. NordVPN is recommended for its speed and reliability, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee for those who may wish to try it out.

As the Texans and Patriots prepare to clash, fans around the world are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting playoff encounter.