New England Patriots thrash Houston Texans

The New England Patriots have moved to within one game of the top seed place in the AFC with a 42-14 win against the Houston Texans.

The Patriots raced to a 21-0 lead at half time, with Matt Schaub and the Texans running backs struggling to have an impact on the game.

Patriots quarterback Tom Brady threw his fourth touchdown pass of the game to extend the home side's advantage in the third quarter, before Arian Foster secured the first points for Houston with a one-yard run for a touchdown.

Two more Patriots scores secured a convincing win, with TJ Yates adding a late consolation for the Texans.

The Texans still have the best record in the AFC conference, with 11 wins and two losses, one win more than New England.

The Patriots have already sealed the AFC East title, while Houston are assured of at least a wild card spot in the playoffs, with the Indianapolis Colts still mathematically able to clinch the AFC South.