Why the Jaguars vs Texans rivalry is so significant
The Jaguars and Texans rivalry has understandably gone unnoticed. Neither team has had sustained success at the same time, and they play in a division filled with underdiscussed teams. In 2025, the two teams combined for a 25-9 record, with both of their head-to-head matchups being decided by 7 points. Both teams have a clear roster and coaching strength on opposite sides of the ball that are set up well for the future.
Rivalries such as the Ravens vs. Steelers, Packers vs. Bears, and Eagles Vs. Cowboys will always draw a bigger national audience, but the Jaguars vs. Texans rivalry is one of the most significant in the NFL and will continue to be for several years. The two teams have each won the division twice over the past 4 seasons and have split the series in 3 of those 4 seasons.
In the NFC, we have a similar situation with the Seahawks and Rams. They are 4-4 against each other over the past 4 seasons and were neck-and-neck with each other throughout the 2025 season, with the Seahawks winning a tightly contested game in the NFC Championship.
The Seahawks have a defensive head coach to spearhead a dominant defense, while the Rams are led by a young offensive genius and MVP-caliber quarterback. The Jaguars and Texans will not draw the same amount of eyes, but both teams are closer to this caliber of rivalry than some may think.
This rivalry will largely come down to C.J. Stroud and the Texans' future at the quarterback position. Stroud has been up-and-down over the last two seasons, with the 2025 playoffs being a low point. Despite this, the Texans still managed to win 12 games and a playoff game with a dominant defense. Should Stroud return to his rookie form, the Texans and Jaguars will control the AFC South for years to come.