Patriots issue statement after NFL delivers final, critical decision on time and location for Wild Card amid scheduling speculation
Foxborough, Massachusetts – The New England Patriots have officially released a statement after the NFL delivered its final ruling regarding weather conditions for the Wild Card playoff matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. Following days of speculation and conflicting information circulating on social media, the league confirmed that the game will proceed as scheduled — with no postponement, no change in kickoff time, and no extreme weather scenario as some had feared.
According to The Weather Channel’s 10-day forecast, Sunday night’s game is expected to be played in cold and damp conditions, with temperatures around 26°F (-3°C) at kickoff, 11 mph west winds, a 24 percent chance of precipitation, and mostly cloudy skies. The NFL reviewed all available meteorological data before concluding that there were no factors severe enough to impact safety or the organization of the Wild Card game.

The Patriots confirmed that all official details remain unchanged: WILD CARD – Sunday, 01/11, 8:15 PM ET, broadcast on NBC / Peacock, radio coverage on 98.5 FM The Sports Hub, with the game played at Gillette Stadium. “There are no changes to the schedule or the venue. We have received final confirmation from the NFL,” a team source said, aiming to shut down the wave of misinformation.
From a strategic standpoint, the report emphasizes that cold weather could actually work in the Patriots’ favor. New England has quietly emerged as one of the most efficient rushing teams in the NFL down the stretch. With Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson both healthy, the Patriots rank fourth league-wide over the last three games, averaging 159 rushing yards per game — an ideal foundation in cold, damp conditions.
Fans hoping for a classic New England snow game will likely be disappointed, as the most realistic scenario is light rain. Still, for the Patriots, these conditions may be ideal to execute a ball-control, disciplined, and physical style of play. 👉 Conclusion: The NFL has closed the door on all weather-related speculation. The Patriots enter the Wild Card with clarity and a potential strategic edge, as they pursue their first playoff victory since Super Bowl LIII.













