The Houston Texans triumphed over the Los Angeles Chargers 23-17 in the wild-card round, benefiting from an unusual off night for quarterback Justin Herbert. Despite entering the game with only three interceptions for the season, Herbert was intercepted three times, with Derek Stingley Jr. making two crucial picks and rookie Kamari Lassiter contributing a diving interception that shifted the game's momentum in favor of Houston.

Under the guidance of first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers faced elimination for the second consecutive year in the playoffs, extending their postseason win drought since 2018. Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud led a balanced offensive effort, throwing for 283 yards and a touchdown, while Nico Collins was the standout receiver with seven receptions for 122 yards. Joe Mixon added significant ground support with 106 rushing yards and a touchdown, propelling the Texans into the divisional round.