Texans vs. Steelers NFL Playoffs: Wild Card Weekend Preview, Tickets and Game Info

Wild Card Weekend closes under the lights in Pittsburgh, where playoff football meets prime time and the stakes feel just a little heavier. The Houston Texans arrive riding a nine-game winning streak, while the Pittsburgh Steelers host the final game of the opening round after winning the AFC North in dramatic fashion this past Sunday night. 

Pittsburgh enters as the No. 4 seed at 10–7 after clinching the division with a wild win over Baltimore on Sunday night, earning the right to host postseason football at Acrisure Stadium. Houston comes in hot as the No. 5 seed at 12–5, carrying confidence and the toughest defense in the NFL. One team brings tradition and home-field grit; the other brings youth and swagger. It’s a fitting way to close Wild Card Weekend.

Game Details for Texans vs. Steelers

Here are some facts to know before this Monday night matchup to wrap up Wild Card Weekend.

• Date: Monday, January 12, 2026

• Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. ET

• Venue:Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Average Resale Ticket Price on SeatGeek: Around $378

• Cheapest Tickets on SeatGeek:You can get Texans-Steelers tickets at SeatGeek starting at $155!

If you’re looking to go to the game, make sure to check out our top tips for saving money on NFL playoff tickets.

NFL Playoff History for the Texans and Steelers

Pittsburgh’s playoff résumé speaks for itself. The Steelers are one of the league’s most decorated postseason franchises, with multiple Super Bowl titles and decades of January appearances. Acrisure Stadium has hosted countless playoff moments, and Pittsburgh’s fan base knows exactly how to turn a cold night into a hostile environment.

Houston’s postseason history is much shorter but rapidly evolving. The Texans have Wild Card Round wins in each of the past two seasons, with both of those coming at home. The franchise has never won a playoff game away from NRG Stadium before. A road playoff win in Pittsburgh would instantly become one of the defining moments in franchise history.

This will be the first-ever playoff matchup between these teams, with the Steelers holding a 5-3 all-time advantage in the regular season over the Texans. 

Players to Watch in Texans vs. Steelers

Wild Card playoff matchups can come down to star power, and this matchup has it on both sides.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Aaron Rodgers The veteran quarterback has given the Steelers a savvy presence under center in his first season in Pittsburgh. His ability to manage the game and strike when defenses overcommit will shape how aggressive Houston can be defensively.

T.J. Watt Few defenders change games like Watt. His pass rush sets the tone for Pittsburgh’s defense, and in a playoff environment, his pressure can flip momentum in a single series.

Houston Texans

Nico Collins Collins has become the focal point of Houston’s passing attack. His size and ability to win contested catches give the Texans a weapon who can thrive in tight coverage.

Derek Stingley Jr. Stingley’s ability to erase receivers and create turnovers makes him one of Houston’s most dangerous defenders. His matchup responsibilities will be critical against a veteran quarterback who knows how to exploit mistakes.

Unique Features of Acrisure Stadium

Acrisure Stadium delivers a playoff experience rooted in Pittsburgh’s identity. Located at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, the open-air stadium is fully exposed to river winds that can shift direction throughout the game—often affecting passing, kicking and late-game decision-making. January night games amplify those elements, turning weather into a strategic factor rather than just a backdrop.

The seating bowl is designed to keep fans stacked tightly above the field, especially along the sidelines, which concentrates crowd noise directly onto the playing surface. On defense, Steelers fans are relentless—standing for entire series, rising with every third down and creating sustained noise. That consistency makes pre-snap communication a challenge for visiting offenses, particularly in high-leverage moments.

Outside the stadium, tailgating starts early across the North Shore, and by kickoff the entire area feels unified. Once inside, the crowd carries that momentum forward, feeding off defensive stops and big plays by waving their “Terrible Towels.” In the playoffs, Acrisure Stadium doesn’t just host football—it reflects a city that expects toughness, discipline and execution when January arrives.

Texans vs. Steelers Fan Experience and What to Know Before You Go

Parking and Getting There Acrisure Stadium sits on Pittsburgh’s North Shore, just across from downtown. For playoff games, on-site surface lots sell out quickly, so arriving early is key—lots often open 3–4 hours before kickoff. Many fans park downtown and walk across the Fort Duquesne or Roberto Clemente Bridges, which also gives you a chance to soak in pregame energy along the riverfront. Rideshare is another popular option, with designated drop-off and pick-up areas near Gate A and Gate D to minimize postgame congestion.

Pregame Scene and Tailgating Tailgating at Steelers games is a full-on citywide tradition. Fans set up in the North Shore lots hours before kickoff, with portable grills, tents, live music and spirited rival chants. For first-timers, walking along the riverfront from your parking spot or hotel offers a great way to take in the pregame hype.

Food and Drinks Inside the Stadium Acrisure Stadium delivers more than the usual stadium staples. Fans can grab classic sausages, pierogies, burgers, fries, and nachos, along with local Pittsburgh favorites like Primanti Bros. sandwiches or regional craft beers. Club-level and suite areas feature elevated menus and premium drink selections, perfect for those looking to upgrade the experience.

Lodging in the Area The North Shore and downtown Pittsburgh offer the closest hotels for playoff attendees. Popular options include:

• Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel – Upscale stay near PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium.

• Drury Plaza Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown – Comfortable mid-range option with easy access to the stadium.

• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh – Boutique hotel right in downtown, ideal for pre- or postgame exploring.

Booking early is strongly recommended, as hotels sell out quickly during playoff games.

Stadium Policies Acrisure Stadium enforces the NFL’s clear bag policy, and all fans must pass through standard security screening. Outside food and beverages aren’t allowed, and postseason games sometimes have additional security measures, so check official stadium guidelines ahead of time to avoid delays.

How to Get Texans vs. Steelers Playoff Tickets on SeatGeek

If you want to be part of the final chapter of Wild Card Weekend, here’s how to lock in your seats.

1. Find the playoff matchup Open the SeatGeek app or head to the website and search “Texans vs. Steelers.” This is the final game of Wild Card Weekend—and the last chance to catch playoff football before the Divisional Round.

2. See the actual price upfront SeatGeek shows all-in pricing from the start, so the price you click is the price you pay. No hidden fees sneaking in at the end.

Step 3: Hunt for value like a pro Use our Deal Score tool to cut through the noise. It highlights which tickets deliver the most bang for your buck based on price, location, and overall value inside Acrisure Stadium.

Step 4: Choose your playoff vantage point Spin through the interactive seating map to compare views from every corner of the stadium—from lower-bowl end zones to upper-deck spots that still bring the noise on third down.

Step 5: Buy, download and get loud Check out in minutes, then find your tickets instantly in the SeatGeek app. They’re ready to scan at the gate—no paper tickets, no scrambling at kickoff.