Texans-Patriots on Divisional Round Sunday: What We Learned from New England's 28-16 win

The New England Patriots secured a spot in the AFC Championship Game after defeating the Houston Texans 28-16. Quarterback Drake Maye led the Patriots with three touchdown passes, including a crucial one-handed catch by Kayshon Boutte in the fourth quarter. Stefon Diggs and Demario Douglas also scored touchdowns for New England. The game was marked by eight total turnovers, with Patriots' defense capitalizing on four interceptions thrown by Texans QB C.J. Stroud. Marcus Jones returned one of those interceptions for a touchdown, and Carlton Davis intercepted two passes, while Craig Woodson and Christian Gonzalez contributed with a pick and a forced fumble, respectively. The Patriots will face the Denver Broncos in the AFC title game on January 25, marking their first appearance in the championship since 2018.