TIME CHANGE: Conference Championship Broncos vs. Patriots kickoff adjusted as heavy snow turns Empower Field into a true “snow game” – Game information

Denver, Colorado – Weather is becoming a familiar ally for the Denver Broncos ahead of the Conference Championship, as the NFL closely monitors a major snowfall expected to blanket Empower Field at Mile High. The matchup with the New England Patriots is no longer just a tactical chess match, but a true test of composure and toughness in the harsh conditions that define Mile High football.

According to the official schedule, the game will be played on Sunday, January 25, at 3:00 PM EST (1:00 PM MDT) in Denver. Forecasts show a kickoff temperature of around 16°F, north winds at 12 MPH, a 60% chance of heavy snowfall, and a high of just 19°F for the day – the kind of weather that has become a hallmark of big games at Empower Field.

The likelihood of the game turning into a true “snow game” is rising quickly, according to meteorologist Noah Bergren. “All of the weather models show heavy snow falling and accumulating at Mile High during the game window, and that will certainly impact the playing surface and the pace of the game,” Bergren noted – a scenario Broncos Nation knows all too well.

Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are coming off a difficult playoff game in Foxborough, where the Gillette Stadium field was slick with snow, making ball security a major challenge. That experience could help them adapt to some extent, but doing it again at Mile High’s elevation presents a completely different test.

Based on lessons from previous postseasons, the NFL has prepared flexible timing options. If snowfall becomes too heavy before kickoff, the start time could be delayed. If snow continues to accumulate during the game, play could be briefly paused to allow the home team to clear the field – further highlighting the Broncos’ home-field advantage.

Initially, there were no plans to change the kickoff time. However, worsening weather conditions throughout the game have forced the NFL to closely monitor the situation to ensure player safety and the overall quality of a contest that will decide the season’s fate.

For Broncos Nation, this is not only a battle for a Super Bowl berth, but a true “Denver football” afternoon. The Patriots have experience in cold, snowy conditions, but the thin air, snow-covered field, and electric atmosphere at Empower Field will be the toughest challenge yet for Drake Maye. The winner will advance to Super Bowl 60 in Santa Clara – where milder weather awaits as a fitting reward after conquering Mile High in the snow.