It's a matchup of strength against strength when the Houston Texans visit the New England Patriots in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs.

The Texans used a similar profile as their rugged defense broke open a tight game in the second half for a 30-6 victory over the homestanding Pittsburgh Steelers. Houston allowed just 175 yards of total offense and 3.1 yards per play, and two late defensive scores helped overcome a three-turnover performance from quarterback C.J. Stroud.

The Patriots have had a huge breakout season, including their first playoff win since Tom Brady led a Super Bowl win over the Los Angeles Rams. They went 14-3 after winning just four games each of the past two seasons. For those who were reveling over the Patriots’ decline after a long dynasty, their dip didn’t last long.

The Patriots are set to host the Texans in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs. Here's what to know about the AFC playoff matchup.

New England Patriots vs Houston Texans odds, picks, predictions for NFL playoff divisional-round football game on Sunday. Who will win AFC game?

USA Today's NFL experts make their picks for an NFL playoff showdown between the New England Patriots and Houston Texans

The Texans looked good in the cold in Pittsburgh, and now they'll get to test themselves again when they play the New England Patriots on what should be a chilly afternoon at Gillette Stadium.

Find out how to watch New England Patriots vs. Houston Texans live streaming online, plus TV channel and game info for this NFL Playoffs AFC Divisional

Darrell Taylor signed with the Houston Texans last offseason to be part of something special. It’s why the edge rusher opted to go down south instead of signing with the Patriots in free agency. When the Texans opted to release the veteran on Monday,

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel was honest and straight to the point when asked if the Texans had the best defense the Patriots have faced.