Since Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers entered the NFL in 2005, he has played the Houston Texans five times.

In that span, Rodgers is 4-1, going for a combined 108/163 (66.3 CMP%), 1,336 yards (267.2 avg), 17 touchdowns (3.4 avg), one interception and a 123.7 passer rating. As recently as last season with the New York Jets, he defeated the Texans 21-13 (68.8 CMP%) with a stat line of 22/32, 211 yards, three touchdowns, zero interceptions and a 118.1 pass rating. That win brought his streak to four in a row over Houston, dating back to 2012.

Whether it's been in Green Bay as a Packer, or New York as a Jet, Rodgers has historically made it his business to play nearly perfect football against Houston every time they have met. 

That's another reason why it's so important for the Texans to get a quick start on Monday Night Football. Even at age 42, and with over 20 years of NFL service time, Rodgers still knows how to control a game with wit, execution and focus on sound situational football. If Houston allows him to find a way to keep the game close until the near end of the game, that could prove disastrous for a franchise that is looking for its first Super Bowl trip in team history.

He'll have the services of returning star wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, while also handing the ball off to gritty running back Jaylen Warren. Plus, Rodgers will then be playing behind an offensive line that has given up the third-fewest sacks in the AFC (31, tied with Houston). 

On Houston's side, they of course enter AFC Wildcard weekend with the best remaining defense in the AFC, who has sacked quarterbacks the fourth-most times in the conference (47). They also possess the second-best mark in passer rating allowed at 76.2. 

Defensive ends Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. might be licking their chops, considering their target is someone who is 42 years of age and doesn't have the same quickness that he used to. If the pass rush wasn't enough, All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. and tag team partner Kamari Lassiter would be waiting in the secondary for any and all errant passes that may find their gloves.

All things considered, the Texans have the statistical advantage on paper, as well as the physical advantage in theory. However, they still must approach the contest carefully and with an emphasis on playing a complete brand of football. 

Rodgers won't be pulling any punches in what could be the final game of his NFL career, so Houston should be prepared to have everything but the kitchen sink thrown at them for the occasion. 

Do you think think the Texans will finally get a much-needed win over Rodgers? What do you think they'll have to do to shut down the Steelers' offense? Let us know in the comments section below and by mentioning us at @Texans_RTB on X!