How to Catch the Indianapolis Colts’ Season Finale Against the Houston Texans: Snapping a Brutal Losing Streak

As the 2025 NFL regular season draws to a close on Sunday, January 4, 2026, the Indianapolis Colts (8-8) head to NRG Stadium in Houston for a Week 18 showdown against the division-rival Texans (11-5). For the Colts, already eliminated from playoff contention after a heartbreaking second-half collapse, this game represents pride, momentum for 2026, and a desperate chance to end an awful six-game losing streak against the Texans—a skid that has seen Houston dominate the rivalry in recent years.

The Texans, riding an eight-game winning streak, have clinched a playoff spot and are battling for better seeding or even the AFC South title. Kickoff is at 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT), and with rookie quarterback Riley Leonard getting his first career start for Indy amid injuries and veteran Philip Rivers’ brief comeback fizzling out, this finale could feature fireworks—or a spoiler upset.

Whether you’re a die-hard Colts fan in Indianapolis, a Texans supporter in Houston, or just tuning in for AFC South drama, here’s your comprehensive guide to catching every snap of this season-ending clash.

Basic Viewing Information: Time, Channel, and Location

• Date: Sunday, January 4, 2026
• Kickoff Time: 1:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. CT / 10:00 a.m. PT
• Location: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
• TV Channel: CBS (national broadcast in most markets; check local listings via 506Sports.com for coverage maps—much of the country will see this game due to its divisional implications)
• Announcers: Ian Eagle (play-by-play) and JJ Watt (color analyst)—a fitting pairing with Watt’s Texans legacy adding insight
• Odds (as of early January 2026): Texans favored by 10.5 points; over/under around 45.5

This simultaneous kickoff with other AFC South games ensures no flexing advantages, keeping the drama pure.

How to Watch on Television

The simplest way for most fans is traditional TV:

• CBS Affiliates: Tune to your local CBS station. Major markets like Indianapolis (WISH-TV), Houston (KHOU), New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are likely to carry it. Use the NFL’s interactive coverage map or your cable provider’s guide.
• Cable/Satellite Packages: Included in basic packages from DirecTV, Dish, Xfinity, Spectrum, etc.
• Antenna Option: Free over-the-air broadcast if you’re in range of a CBS tower—perfect for cord-cutters.

No blackouts apply since it’s a regular-season finale without primetime exclusivity.

Streaming Options: Live and On-Demand

In 2026, streaming dominates—here are the best legal ways:

1. Paramount+ (Recommended for CBS Games)
   • Streams all CBS-broadcast NFL games live.
   • Plans start at $5.99/month (with ads) or $11.99 (ad-free).
   • Includes pregame/postgame shows; available on smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, phones, tablets, and web.
   • Essential plan includes your local CBS live feed.
2. FuboTV
   • Carries CBS in most markets; great for sports fans with 100+ channels.
   • Starts at $79.99/month; 7-day free trial often available.
   • DVR included for recording the game.
3. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream
   • All include local CBS; base prices $72–$90/month.
   • Multi-device streaming and cloud DVR.
4. NFL+ (Mobile-Only for Local Games)
   • $6.99/month or $49.99/season.
   • Live local and primetime games on phones/tablets (not TVs).
   • Full replays, condensed games, and All-22 coaches film post-game.
   • Premium tier adds NFL Network and RedZone.

Out-of-Market Note: If you’re outside the Colts/Texans markets and it’s not nationally televised, Paramount+ or NFL+ are your go-tos. Avoid illegal streams—stick to official for reliability and quality.

International Viewers: NFL Game Pass (via DAZN) offers live streaming in many countries; check regional restrictions.

Listening Options: Radio and Audio Streams

Prefer audio?

• Colts Radio Network: Flagship 93.5/107.5 The Fan (Indianapolis); affiliates statewide. SiriusXM Channel TBD; online via Colts app or TuneIn.
• Texans Radio Network: SportsRadio 610 AM; Marc Vandermeer and Andre Ware calling it.
• National Radio: Not expected, but check Westwood One.
• NFL+ or Team Apps: Live audio included.

Pregame starts hours early—perfect for tailgate vibes.

Attending In Person: Tickets and Stadium Guide

Want the full experience at NRG Stadium?

• Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, StubHub, or Vivid Seats. Prices vary ($50–$300+ depending on section); expect high demand from Texans fans chasing seeding.
• Stadium Policies: Clear bag policy; mobile tickets only. Gates open 2 hours pre-kickoff.
• Weather: Roof likely closed—comfortable indoors.
• Tailgating: Iconic at NRG; arrive early for spots.
• Travel Tips: Fly into Houston Hobby or IAH; rideshare surges expected.

If sold out, resale markets have options—but buy verified.

Why This Game Matters: Snapping the Streak and Rivalry Heat

Beyond viewing logistics, this matchup packs emotional punch.

The Colts, once 8-2 and atop the AFC, crumbled with injuries (Daniel Jones’ Achilles, Anthony Richardson’s issues) and close losses, dropping six straight overall. Against Houston specifically, they’ve lost six in a row, including a 20-16 heartbreaker in Week 13 at home.

C.J. Stroud and the Texans’ offense (led by Nico Collins) have owned Indy, while Jonathan Taylor’s rushing prowess offers hope for a spoiler. Rookie Riley Leonard starting adds intrigue—could he spark an upset?

For Houston, a win locks better seeding; a loss opens doors for rivals.

This AFC South rivalry, once lopsided toward Indy (32-14-1 all-time entering Week 18), has flipped under DeMeco Ryans and Stroud.

Pregame and Postgame Coverage

• TV: CBS pregame (NFL Today); ESPN/NFL Network for highlights.
• Online: NFL.com, Colts.com, HoustonTexans.com for live updates, stats, and replays.
• Social Media: Follow @Colts, @HoustonTexans, #INDvsHOU for real-time buzz.
• Fantasy/ Betting: Check Yahoo, ESPN, or DraftKings for last-minute props.

Alternatives If You Miss It Live

• Highlights: NFL YouTube, team sites immediately post-game.
• Full Replay: NFL+ Premium or Game Pass.
• Condensed: 30–45 minute versions on NFL+.

No excuses—tune in and root for your side as the Colts chase that elusive win over their heated rivals.

This season finale might lack playoff stakes for Indy, but pride and rivalry fire burn bright. Don’t miss potential chaos in Houston!