The Texans locked up their third AFC South division title and a postseason berth with a 30-6 win over the Jaguars in the 2015 regular season finale. Houston's defense held Jacksonville without a touchdown, while forcing four turnovers and sacking Blake Bortles seven times in the win.
For the first time in franchise history, two players had three sacks each in a single game as J.J. Watt and Whitney Mercilus wreaked havoc as a duo. Watt, who played without a cast for the first time in a month, had three sacks (17.5 on the season), a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and two passes defensed. Mercilus ended his 2015 regular season campaign with a career-high 12 sacks after adding 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
Andre Hal and Kareem Jackson both had interceptions, with Jackson returning his 27-yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
Houston took an early 10-0 lead as Jonathan Grimes found the endzone for the first time this season. Grimes scored two touchdowns, one rushing and one receiving. Brian Hoyer returned in his first start since suffering a concussion on Dec. 13 against New England. He completed 25-of-40 for 249 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Nick Novak kicked 3-of-4 field goals from 28 yards and two from 51, missing a kick from 50 yards.
Alfred Blue rushed for 102 yards on 21 carries for his third 100-yard performance this year. DeAndre Hopkins led the receivers with seven catches for 89 yards.
The win wasn't without its share of injuries. Eight-year veteran and All-Pro Duane Brown injured his left knee and was carted off the field in the first quarter. Brown, who did not return, was replaced by Chris Clark at left tackle. Nate Washington also injured his hip and did not return in the second half.
With the win, the Texans finish the season with a 9-7 record and earn their first playoff appearance since 2012. Houston will host the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Wild Card game.
For the box score, click here.
Check out the snapshots from the Week 17 matchup between the Texans and Jaguars.