The New England Patriots survived a messy divisional round battle against the Houston Texans, winning 28-16 behind a dominant defensive performance. The Patriots forced five turnovers, including four interceptions of C.J. Stroud, to advance to the AFC Championship.

Despite Drake Maye's three fumbles and an interception, the rookie QB recovered to throw three touchdowns. The defense’s pressure and Marcus Jones’ pick-six in the second quarter shifted momentum for good, handing the Texans their seventh straight divisional round loss.

New England now travels to face the Denver Broncos and backup QB Jarrett Stidham. The Patriots’ ability to control the line of scrimmage and create turnovers will be tested again in a venue where they've struggled historically in January.

This win keeps alive New England’s long playoff run aspirations while exposing Houston’s lack of postseason readiness despite a promising regular season under coach DeMeco Ryans.