LOOKING AHEAD

Astros wrap up AL West; look ahead to Cleveland series

Astros wrap up AL West; look ahead to Cleveland series
The Astros and Justin Verlander are set to begin their World Series defense. Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

It was pretty much a foregone conclusion after the weekend, but the Astros wrapped up a second consecutive AL West title with a 4-1 win over Toronto coupled with Oakland's 10-8 loss to Seattle.

The Astros won their 100th game of the season, and with five games left, could break the franchise record of 102 wins. The defending World Series champions have one more game in Toronto today before finishing with four against lowly Baltimore. 

The clinching also means the playoffs are set, with Houston opening against Cleveland in a best of five that starts Oct. 5 at Minute Maid Park. Boston will play the winner of the one-game wild card between New York and Oakland. The only thing left to determine is where that game is played; the Yankees lead by 2.5 games.

The divisional series playoff schedule for the Astros:

Friday, Oct. 5           Game 1        Cleveland at Houston

Saturday, Oct. 6      Game 2        Cleveland at Houston

Monday, Oct. 8       Game 3        Houston at Cleveland

Tuesday, Oct. 9       Game 4        *Houston at Cleveland

Thursday, Oct. 11    Game 5        *Cleveland at Houston

*-if necessary

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Derek Stingley Jr. snagged two crucial interceptions against Miami. Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images.

The Texans defense came through once again on Sunday, as they were able to hold the Dolphins to just twelve points, helping to secure a 20-12 win for Houston.

Sunday's victory, paired with a Colts loss, also clinched another division title for Houston, which guarantees they'll host a home playoff game. This is significant because Houston has played much better at home, and given some of the NFL's best quarterbacks fits.

However, the offense just hasn't clicked consistently this year, for a variety of reasons.

With all this in mind, how far can this defense take the Texans?

Be sure to watch the video above as the crew from ESPN Houston's Gallant and George weigh in.

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