Can the Texans make the playoffs? C.J. Stroud’s team is still alive
The Houston Texans are currently outside the playoff picture, but hope is not lost. Here’s how their postseason odds look after Week 12.
The Houston Texans are the surprise bubble team of the AFC. Sitting at 6–5, they’re currently outside the playoff picture, but their young, hungry roster gives fans plenty of reason for optimism.
Houston isn’t a given to contend each year, which makes this bubble push even more exciting. For a team that’s still rebuilding, every win is a statement to prove they belong.
Is there a more exciting division race in the NFL right now than the AFC South?
— Jeremy Beadling (@JeremyChuggs) November 24, 2025
I think all 3 teams could make the playoffs... but wouldn't it be awesome if Texans vs. Colts Week 18 was to decide the division again? #htownmade
📷: @NerdingonNFL pic.twitter.com/lbWQ7Z0t7U
Why the Texans are on the bubble
Houston has overachieved this season in large part due to team effort and strong coaching. C.J. Stroud is expected to return in Week 13, but Davis Mills led them to a 3-0 win streak in his absence. Still, the Texans have had some inconsistencies this season, including the offense’s struggles against top-tier defenses, turnovers at inopportune times, and special teams mistakes that swing momentum.
At 6–5, the Texans are in the mix, but they’re barely clinging to playoff contention. A couple of missteps down the stretch could undo everything they’ve built so far.
Remaining schedule: The road ahead
Houston has six games left, with a mix of winnable matchups and tough challenges:
- Week 13: Thu, Nov 27 @ Miami Dolphins
- Week 14: Sun, Dec 7 vs Pittsburgh Steelers
- Week 15: Sun, Dec 14 @ Jacksonville Jaguars
- Week 16: Sun, Dec 21 vs Kansas City Chiefs
- Week 17: Thu, Dec 25 @ Indianapolis Colts
- Week 18: Sun, Jan 4, 2026 vs Tennessee Titans
The Texans must protect home turf and steal wins on the road if they hope to reach the postseason.
What must happen for the Texans to make the playoffs
1. C.J. Stroud must stay hot
Back from injury, Stroud must play smart and mistake-free football. His ability to lead drives and make clutch throws will be key in close games.
2. Defense must make key stops
Turnovers and defensive scoring could swing multiple games in the Texans’ favor. They’ll need opportunistic plays against high-powered offenses.
3. Capitalize on divisional games
Victories over the Jaguars, Colts, and Titans would give Houston leverage in tiebreakers and keep them in the playoff hunt.
4. Avoid collapse in tight games
Close-game execution has been inconsistent . Winning the “one-possession” matchups could make the difference between a postseason berth and another rebuilding year.
The Texans’ bubble is precarious, but it’s not improbable. With a combination of home-field wins, clutch performances, and a little luck in tiebreakers, Houston could slide into a Wild Card spot.
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