In a thrilling 23-19 victory against the Colts, the Houston Texans clinched a playoff spot for the first time in four years. The win places them in contention for the AFC’s No. 4 seed, and the possibility of hosting a playoff game looms, contingent on final regular-season results. Coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized the team’s perseverance, stating, “Everybody’s fighting till that last play. That’s what it’s about.”
With a current record of 10-7, the Texans await their postseason fate. Depending on outcomes on the final day, they could either secure one of the AFC’s three wild-card spots or host a wild-card weekend game as AFC South champions if Jacksonville loses to Tennessee.
The defeat ended Indianapolis’ playoff hopes, marking their third loss in five weeks and their exclusion from the postseason since 2020. Despite facing challenges with a new head coach, a fresh quarterback, and a depleted receiving corps, the Texans secured the victory at a venue where they had only won four times in the last 20 seasons.
The Texans will now closely watch Jacksonville’s performance against Tennessee, determining their playoff seeding and opponent. For an in-depth analysis of the game, tune in to Inside the Game with Greg Baily and Spencer Tillman on ABC13 at 10:35 p.m. as they provide unique insights into the Texans’ playoff-bound journey.
In response to a harrowing incident involving an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9, federal officials have issued an immediate grounding order for all such jetliners pending thorough inspections. The urgency arises after the Alaska Airlines plane suffered a blowout, resulting in a substantial hole in the fuselage.
Approximately 171 Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft worldwide are affected by the mandated inspections, each estimated to take between four to eight hours per aircraft. As of Saturday morning, over a quarter of the fleet had undergone inspections, and no alarming findings were reported, according to the airline.
“Aircraft will return to service as their inspections are completed with our full confidence,” assured the company in a statement.
The critical incident unfolded when an Alaska Airlines jetliner experienced a window blowout and fuselage damage shortly after takeoff, reaching an altitude of 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) above Oregon on Friday. The resulting gaping hole prompted emergency protocols, leading to a safe landing at Portland International Airport within 20 minutes of departure.
Despite the dramatic nature of the event, all 174 passengers and six crew members on board emerged unscathed, thanks in part to the prompt use of oxygen masks.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced on Saturday that it would initiate an investigation into the incident.
Evan Smith, a passenger on the flight, recounted a particularly distressing moment involving a child and their mother seated in the row where the window blew out. The rapid decompression of the cabin caused the child’s shirt to be sucked out of the plane.
Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci acknowledged that the inspection of the entire 65-strong Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet could take several days. These aircraft constitute a fifth of the airline’s total fleet of 314 planes. The potential impact on the company’s flight schedule remains uncertain as inspections progress.
As the Houston Texans prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts in a pivotal late-season matchup, Head Coach DeMeco Ryans reflects on the significant transformation his team has undergone since their early-season encounter. What was once a narrative focused on uncertainties about their quarterbacks has evolved into a high-stakes, prime-time game with a win-or-go-home scenario.
“We’re a completely different team now,” states Ryans. The Texans’ improvement is evident on tape, showcasing a team that has discovered its identity and grown significantly since the beginning of the season. With a 9-7 record, Houston finds itself in a three-way tie atop the AFC South with the Colts and another team, each vying for a playoff spot and an end to their postseason droughts—Houston last reached the playoffs in 2019, while the Colts did so in 2020.
Should Jacksonville falter against Tennessee on Sunday, the victor in Saturday night’s clash will secure the division title and the opportunity for another home game on wild-card weekend.
The journey for both teams has been remarkable, especially considering the preseason uncertainties surrounding their rookie quarterbacks. Houston’s C.J. Stroud has had a historic first season, throwing 21 touchdown passes and nearing 4,000 passing yards. On the other side, the Colts have turned to veteran Gardner Minshew following a season-ending injury to rookie Anthony Richardson in Week 5. Minshew has won six of his eight starts, elevating the Colts from the division cellar.
The unexpected success of both teams sets the stage for a captivating regular-season finale. Stroud, dubbed Houston’s big star, and running back Devin Singletary, known as “Motor,” have been key contributors to the Texans’ resurgence. Singletary, replacing the injured Dameon Pierce, has posted impressive numbers, including three 100-yard games.
As the Texans gear up for the decisive showdown, rookie defensive end Will Anderson Jr. has fought through an ankle injury to make a notable impact. With seven sacks this season, Anderson broke the franchise rookie record, displaying a relentless mindset and determination to contribute to the team’s success.
The Colts, too, recognize the challenge posed by Stroud and are prepared to apply defensive pressure. Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner admires Stroud’s fearlessness in making big throws and his ability to extend plays using his feet.
The clash between the Texans and Colts, not initially projected as a significant matchup, has turned into one of the most-watched games on the NFL’s final regular-season weekend. As the two teams vie for playoff berths, the spotlight intensifies on this unexpected showdown with playoff implications.
Football enthusiasts can catch the game at 7:15 p.m. in Indianapolis on ABC13, eagerly awaiting the outcome that will shape the postseason landscape for these resurgent teams.
As the College Football Playoff national championship game descends upon Houston, excitement builds for the clash between the Washington Huskies and the Michigan Wolverines at NRG Stadium on Monday night. While attending the game may come with a hefty price tag, there are numerous pre-game events offering free enjoyment. Here’s a rundown of the festivities surrounding this pinnacle in college football:
Playoff Fan Central at the George R. Brown Convention Center
A three-day free event featuring games, clinics, autograph signings, band performances, and more.
Dates and Times:
Friday, Jan. 5: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 6: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 7: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
FREE AT&T Playoff Playlist Concerts
Gates open at 6 p.m. for each performance.
Concert Schedule:
Friday, Jan. 5: KIDZ BOP
Saturday, Jan. 6: Latto and Jack Harlow
Sunday, Jan. 7: Megan Moroney, Jake Owen, and Jon Pardi
Concert tickets are free but require pre-registration on the CFBPlayoff mobile app. Attendees can secure a wristband as their ticket between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the concert day at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Note: Wristbands are not needed for the KIDZ BOP concert on Jan. 5; entry is first-come, first-served for that show.
Shell Energy Stadium Bag Policy
Attendees heading to Shell Energy Stadium for any AT&T Playoff Playlist concert should familiarize themselves with the venue’s bag policy.
Trophy Trot
A 10K or 5K family-friendly run and walk taking place on Sunday, Jan. 7, at 9 a.m. starting from the George R. Brown Convention Center.
Taste of the Championship
A culinary delight happening at Union Station at Minute Maid Park on Sunday. Taste of the Championship offers a premium dining experience featuring gourmet food and drinks, curated by James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd. Tickets to this event are not free – to purchase, click here.
Houstonians and visitors alike have a plethora of options to revel in the excitement surrounding the College Football Playoff National Championship, from family-friendly runs to premium dining experiences. Dive into the festivities and make the most of this thrilling weekend in Houston.
After a week marked by substantial rainfall bookending workdays, Houston residents are set to experience a pleasant and mild weekend. However, a swift change in weather is anticipated just before the upcoming college football title game next week.
The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts the return of thunderstorms and near-freezing temperatures to Harris County early next week. Storms are expected to make their entrance on Monday, with a 100-percent chance of precipitation in the Downtown area coinciding with the College Football Playoff National Championship scheduled at NRG Stadium. This turbulent weather pattern is attributed to a low-pressure system forming in the Rocky Mountains and slated to traverse the Great Plains into Texas, bringing the potential for severe weather across southern parts of the state.
“The severe weather threat should encompass all of SE Texas, with [the Storm Prediction Center] placing the entire region under a slight (level 2/5) risk of severe weather for Monday,” states the NWS’ long-term area forecast discussion. A “slight” risk, categorized as Level 2, implies a potential for short-lived and/or not widespread storms, with isolated intense storms possible.
Following Monday’s storms, Houston can expect the arrival of cold air and “strong gusty winds.” NWS forecasters predict temperatures in Houston proper to plummet into the upper 30s early Tuesday morning. Wind speeds of 20 to 30 mph, with higher gusts across Greater Houston, are anticipated throughout the day. Wind advisories may be issued for Southeast Texas on Tuesday afternoon, and vessels traversing the Gulf of Mexico might face gale watches or warnings.
Whether you’re a Houston resident or in town for the CFP championship, be prepared for a quintessential Bayou City scenario, transitioning from warm and wet conditions to windy and frigid in less than 24 hours. To ensure a comfortable time in the city, staying dry and indulging in delectable meals at Houston’s essential restaurants is recommended. After all, Houstonians are known for savoring great food, regardless of the weather outside.
In a gripping second season of the Investigation Discovery documentary series, “The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: Natalia Speaks,” the complex saga surrounding Natalia Grace, her adoptive parents Michael and Kristine Barnett, and her current guardians, Cynthia and Antwon Mans, takes center stage.
The initial season, which aired in May 2023, delved into the contentious narrative put forth by the Barnetts, who claimed that Natalia, adopted in 2010, was an adult posing as a Ukrainian orphan with a rare form of dwarfism. The series featured Michael’s allegations of violent behavior by Natalia, whom he labeled a “sociopath.”
The second season, airing this week, presents extensive interviews with Natalia, where she refutes the Barnetts’ accusations and accuses Kristine Barnett of childhood abuse. The series also captures conversations between Natalia and Michael, who issues an apology and alleges manipulation by Kristine.
After the legal turmoil with the Barnetts, Natalia found a new family in Cynthia and Antwon Mans. However, the latest episodes reveal a shocking twist, suggesting discord between Natalia and her new guardians. A black screen with text narrates a surprising phone call received by the producers two weeks ago, exposing Natalia’s alleged claims of being held hostage and painting the Mans family as the enemy.
Antwon and Cynthia Mans, featured prominently throughout the series, express their dismay, stating, “Natalia is stabbing her family in the back over a complete lie.” The series ends with the declaration, “Natalia’s story will continue,” leaving viewers in suspense about the unfolding drama in Natalia’s tumultuous life.
For a comprehensive look at the unfolding events, you can watch the full conversation on Investigation Discovery’s YouTube channel. The twists and turns in Natalia’s story continue to captivate audiences as the truth behind her tumultuous journey gradually comes to light.
In a significant move aimed at addressing Houston’s impending fiscal hurdles, Mayor Whitmire engaged in a constructive dialogue with City Controller Chris Hollins. The focus of their discussion centered on optimizing collaboration between the Administration and the Controller’s Office to better serve the city’s residents.
Both Mayor Whitmire and Controller Hollins underscored a shared commitment to charting a course toward fiscal sustainability and enhancing the quality of services provided to Houstonians.
“I was pleased to meet with Controller Chris Hollins to discuss our city finances and our mutual commitment to a better Houston. We recognize the city faces a huge challenge to maintain our financial sustainability, but I believe a great first step was for us to agree to work together,” expressed Mayor Whitmire.
Controller Hollins echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism about the evolving relationship between the new mayoral administration and the Office of the City Controller. “Our city faces serious fiscal challenges, but I’m confident we will work together to ensure Houston’s future prosperity,” he stated.
Acknowledging the diverse needs of Houstonians, Controller Hollins emphasized, “Whether it be addressing outdated infrastructure, keeping our neighborhoods safe, or increasing community resilience, Houstonians are counting on us to put forward our collective best. As Houston’s chief financial officer, I intend to keep that pledge.” This collaborative effort signals a proactive approach to surmount the city’s fiscal obstacles and deliver sustained benefits to its residents.
A former janitor at Hoyland Elementary School in Spring ISD has been arrested on charges of invasive visual recording after allegedly installing cameras in at least two staff restrooms, capturing unsuspecting women.
Documents reveal that 41-year-old Erik Fernando Carreon admitted to purchasing and placing cameras in two bathrooms, both restricted areas accessible only to staff members at the school. The cameras were strategically positioned to capture individuals in compromising situations.
While details about the timeline of camera acquisition and installation remain undisclosed, records indicate that Carreon was arrested on January 3, following an investigation into the illicit activities.
As the probe unfolds, Spring ISD issued a statement, acknowledging the swift response to the incident. The school district emphasized that additional charges might be filed as the investigation progresses but refrained from providing specific details.
In response to the incident, Spring ISD released the following statement:
“The Spring Independent School District took swift action following the reporting of a recording device at Hoyland Elementary School, which was discovered in an area restricted to staff members.
A suspect was immediately identified, quickly terminated from their position and arrested by the Spring ISD Police Department and booked on a felony charge of invasive visual recording. Further charges could be filed, as the investigation is ongoing.
After a thorough investigation, a staff meeting was held yesterday at the school, and a letter was sent to all parents and staff. Partnering with Harris County Pct. 5 Constable’s Office, we were also able to bring in an Electronic Detection K9 to thoroughly search the campus for any other devices, of which none were found.
We have no tolerance here in Spring ISD for criminal acts, especially those that would violate the safety, privacy and well-being of our staff and students. The district is proud of the swift action and vigilance of our campus staff and police department, which brought this incident to a quick resolution.”
The school district assured parents and staff that they are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all, condemning any criminal acts that compromise the well-being and privacy of the school community.
In a surprising turn of events, Wayne LaPierre, the longstanding head of the National Rifle Association (NRA), declared his resignation on Friday, just days before the commencement of a civil trial in New York set to scrutinize his leadership within the influential gun rights organization.
Effective January 31, LaPierre, who has held the position of executive vice president and chief executive officer since 1991, revealed his decision to step down. The organization announced that Andrew Arulanandam will serve as the interim CEO & EVP.
In a statement released by the NRA, LaPierre expressed pride in the organization’s achievements and his unwavering support for its cause. He said, “With pride in all that we have accomplished, I am announcing my resignation from the NRA. I’ve been a card-carrying member of this organization for most of my adult life, and I will never stop supporting the NRA and its fight to defend Second Amendment freedom. My passion for our cause burns as deeply as ever.”
The timing of LaPierre’s resignation coincides with the imminent trial in the lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James against the NRA, LaPierre, and other executives. The trial is scheduled to commence on Monday, with LaPierre expected to testify.
Attorney General James, a Democrat, has leveled accusations against LaPierre and fellow executives, alleging the illegal diversion of tens of millions of dollars from the NRA. The charges include the misuse of organizational funds for personal trips, no-show contracts, and other questionable expenditures.
As part of the legal action, James seeks to prohibit LaPierre and other implicated executives from assuming leadership roles in any not-for-profit or charitable organization conducting business in New York. Such a move would effectively disassociate them from any future involvement with the NRA.
The resignation of Wayne LaPierre comes at a pivotal moment for the NRA, adding a layer of complexity to the legal proceedings that will unfold in the coming days. The trial is poised to shed light on the allegations against the organization’s leadership and may have far-reaching implications for the influential gun rights group.
Michael Brantley, a distinguished five-time All-Star and World Series champion, has officially decided to retire from Major League Baseball (MLB) after an illustrious 15-season career.
In an exclusive interview with MLB Network, published on Friday, Brantley shared his decision, citing a desire to prioritize his role as a father. “I have young kids, and now it’s time to be a dad, first and foremost,” he said. “It’s time for me to be home 24/7, watch my kids grow up, and not miss important milestones.”
The 36-year-old outfielder has wasted no time embracing his new role as he revealed plans to coach Little League, demonstrating his commitment to staying connected with the sport at a grassroots level.
Brantley’s MLB journey began in 2008 when he became the player later sent from Milwaukee to Cleveland to finalize the trade that sent C.C. Sabathia to the Brewers. He made his debut with the Cleveland Indians the following season and remained with the team through the 2018 season.
In December 2018, Brantley embarked on a new chapter, signing as a free agent with the Houston Astros. This winter, after a successful stint with the Astros, he faced free agency once again.
The seasoned player faced challenges in the 2023 season, being limited to 15 regular-season games. His return to the field in the final month followed a lengthy recovery from a shoulder injury and subsequent surgery. Brantley had been absent from the majors since June 26, 2022, marking a triumphant comeback in late August.
Brantley leaves the game with an impressive career batting average of .298, along with 129 home runs, 720 RBIs, 125 stolen bases, and an OPS of .794 over 1,445 regular-season games.
His impact extended beyond the regular season, with a notable postseason performance. Over 62 games in 14 postseason series, Brantley maintained a batting average of .283, including a remarkable .327 in two World Series appearances with the Houston Astros. As he bids farewell to the professional field, Michael Brantley leaves behind a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship.
