The Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs continues with another AFC showdown. Below, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about how to watch Texans vs. Patriots, including free global live streaming options.
The New England Patriots have had a stellar season so far, tying the top-seeded Denver Broncos in the AFC with a 14-3 regular season and leading the AFC East. Young quarterback Drake Maye, in his sophomore season, has been an integral part of the team’s revival alongside new Head Coach Mike Vrabel. The Pats have made it past the Wild Card round for the first time since the 2018 season (which led to a 2019 Super Bowl victory).
The 12-5 Houston Texans, who are second in the AFC South, are ready for a redo after getting bounced by the Kansas City Chiefs in last year’s divisional game. The Texans and Patriots haven’t faced off this season, and their last head-to-head was a 2024 matchup in which the Texans won 41-21.
Whether you’re rooting for the Patriots or Texans, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn some of the best ways to tune into the game, including some free streaming options.
How to watch Texans vs. Patriots in the US
The Texans vs. Patriots game will air on ESPN in the US. The game is scheduled to kick off on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, but the network’s postseason NFL Countdown coverage begins at noon. Those without cable have several live streaming options to choose from when it comes to viewing the game, including ESPN Unlimited, DirecTV, Fubo, and others.
ESPN Unlimited is the network’s direct streaming counterpart. It offers full live streams from the flagship network, as well as ESPN2, the ACC Network, SEC Network, and other ESPN properties. Subscriptions cost $30 a month, but there are some unique savings opportunities when you bundle with Disney Plus and Hulu, and/or NFL Plus Premium, or FOX One.
ESPN Unlimited
ESPN Unlimited has everything from ESPN Plus, in addition to all that the ESPN linear networks have to offer.
If you’d prefer a streaming app that lets you watch other networks beyond those related to ESPN, or you’re on the fence and hoping for something with a free trial, DirecTV and Fubo are two of our top recommendations.
DirecTV MySports carries ESPN and around 20 other popular sports channels in its lineup. Subscriptions cost $70 a month, but new users can get a five-day free trial. The plan also unlocks access to ESPN Unlimited at no extra cost.
DirecTV MySports
DirecTV’s MySports pack carries popular sports channels, from mainstays like ESPN to niche offerings like the ACC Network.
Fubo Sports + News offers ESPN and around 28 other sports and news channels. Like DirecTV, it also unlocks access to ESPN Unlimited. Subscriptions cost $56 a month, but new users can get a five-day free trial and $10 off their first month of service.
Fubo Sports + News
The new Fubo Sports + News pack is only available in select areas. It combines 20+ major sports channels (including the new ESPN Unlimited) and select local networks (ABC, CBS, and FOX).
The game will also be available through NFL Plus, where subscriptions start at just $7 a month. However, games are only available through mobile devices, like tablets and phones, so we recommend one of the above services if you’d like to stream the Texans vs. Patriots on your TV.
How to watch Texans vs. Patriots in the UK
Like the rest of the NFL season, the Texans vs. Patriots game will be available through DAZN in the UK. DAZN’s NFL Game Pass is available in monthly or season-long subscriptions, and prices vary depending on which tier you choose.
How to watch Texans vs. Patriots in Australia
The Texans vs. Patriots game will air on 7Mate and be available to live stream on 7Plus in Australia. This is a free streaming option, and users just need to create an account (if they don’t already have one) to start watching.
How to watch Texans vs. Patriots in New Zealand
The Texans vs. Patriots game will be available on TVNZ in New Zealand, which means that fans can stream the game via TVNZ+. This is a free streaming option that simply requires account creation to get started.
How to watch Texans vs. Patriots from anywhere
Football fans can keep up with their go-to websites and apps from anywhere with the help of a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs are cybersecurity apps that enable people to alter the location on their electronic devices. This way, their usual websites and apps work from anywhere in the world just like they would back home. They’re popular services for those looking to keep up with their usual services while traveling abroad or to upgrade their online security.
NordVPN is a top-rated option and our No. 1 VPN recommendation right now. It’s a stellar service with fast speeds, a variety of servers, and a hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee if you find that it’s not what you’re looking for. Our NordVPN review breaks down everything you might need to know about the app.
NordVPN Plan
NordVPN is one of the top VPN services in the business. It offers excellent value with a strong selection of features and a low monthly price. A wide selection of international servers, high-end security, fast connections, and audited privacy protection have made the brand a household name in the world of VPNs.
Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.
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