The Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers are set to clash in a highly anticipated wild-card playoff game. Both teams are entering the matchup in strong condition, with health on their side as they aim for a victory.
In a significant boost for the Texans, safety Jaylen Reed has been activated from injured reserve after being sidelined since late November due to a forearm injury. Reed’s return bolsters the Texans’ defense, which is already ranked the best in the NFL. However, the Texans will be without several key players, including wide receiver Braxton Berrios, quarterback Graham Mertz, linebacker Christian Harris, offensive guard Juice Scruggs, running back Jawhar Jordan, and cornerback Alijah Huzzie.
On the other side, the Pittsburgh Steelers are nearly at full strength as they prepare for the game. Wide receiver DK Metcalf is back in the lineup after serving a two-game suspension for an incident with a fan in Detroit on December 21. Despite this, the Steelers will miss running back Kaleb Johnson, wide receiver Roman Wilson, quarterback Will Howard, defensive lineman Logan Lee, outside linebacker Jeremiah Moon, offensive tackle Jack Driscoll, and cornerback Tre Flowers.
This matchup comes with historical stakes as the Steelers aim to break a six-game playoff losing streak, while the Texans are on a quest for their first-ever road postseason victory. Fans are eagerly watching to see if either team can overcome its challenges and make a significant mark in the playoffs. The anticipation is building as both squads prepare for what promises to be an exciting showdown.