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TIME CHANGE: Patriots vs. Texans kickoff adjusted as a winter storm turns New England into a major snow game – Game information

Foxborough, Massachusetts – January 16, 2026

The Divisional Round matchup between the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans is facing the possibility of a kickoff time adjustment, as a powerful winter storm is forecast to sweep through the New England region, turning this showdown into a true “snow game.”

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According to the latest forecasts, winter weather conditions are expected to be extremely harsh, with low temperatures, strong winds, and the potential for heavy snowfall. Event organizers and the NFL are closely monitoring the situation, with scenarios including a delay of 30 minutes to one hour — or, in a worst-case scenario, a change in the kickoff time — if heavy snow significantly reduces visibility and impacts player safety.

For the Texans, this represents a continuation of challenges after playing in freezing conditions in Pittsburgh last week. However, what awaits them in Massachusetts is considered even more severe. A strong cold front is set to arrive right as the playoffs take place, and in that context, the Patriots are viewed as gaining a significant additional home-field advantage.

The game was originally scheduled for a 3:00 p.m. kickoff at Gillette Stadium. However, updated forecast models indicate that conditions could worsen as the game progresses, with increasingly slippery field conditions and heavier snowfall, forcing the NFL to consider flexible options for adjusting the game time.

New England's (Other) Snow Record

Meteorologist Noah Bergren stated that the likelihood of a snow game is rising rapidly, as an East Coast winter storm could bring heavy snow along the I-95 corridor, from Washington, D.C. to the Boston area. According to him, both the GFS and Canadian models support a heavy snowfall scenario, potentially lasting from Sunday into early Monday.

The article also notes that several recent playoff games have already been affected by weather conditions, most notably last week’s matchup between the Bears and Packers, with other Divisional Round games facing similarly harsh conditions.

Conclusion: Patriots vs. Texans is shaping up to be not only a tense battle on the field, but also a fight against the elements. Fans are advised to closely monitor official announcements regarding any updated kickoff time, as New England prepares for a cold, snow-covered, and highly unpredictable playoff night.

BREAKING: Bears Among Top Landing Spots for Former $141 Million Future Hall of Fame Pass Rusher
Chicago, Illinois – January 2026 Chicago Bears are reportedly one of the top landing spots for Khalil Mack, a former $141 million edge rusher, as he is set to hit free agency in the spring. The 34-year-old player, widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer, is expected to be a top target for teams looking to add a veteran pass rusher to their roster, and the Bears could be the perfect fit. After spending the past few years with the Los Angeles Chargers, Mack had a solid 2025 season, recording 5.5 sacks and 39 quarterback pressures. While Mack may not be the dominant force he once was, he remains a top-tier pass rusher and a leader with invaluable experience, potentially providing a significant boost to the Bears' defense, which is on the rise. According to Zachary Pereles from CBS Sports, the Bears could be the most likely destination for Mack. “Mack returns to Chicago, where he starred from 2018-2021. The Bears need to boost their pass rush without spending too much, and Mack fits that perfectly,” Pereles said. The Bears have the salary cap flexibility to bring Mack in without making a massive financial commitment, making him a sensible option for a team looking to bolster its defense without overspending. The Bears have shown strong defensive potential under head coach Mike Macdonald, but Mack could provide the veteran presence needed for a group of young, developing pass rushers. His leadership and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks would be a welcome addition, and his past success with the Bears makes him an ideal candidate to return to Chicago. However, the Bears won’t be the only team competing for Mack. Other teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks are also interested. The Bengals may need a replacement for Trey Hendrickson, the Panthers have multiple defensive needs, and the Seahawks have the cap space to make a big splash signing. “Bears is my old home, where I spent some of the most important years of my career. Even though I’ve been away, Chicago has always been in my heart. Coming back here is not just an opportunity to contribute to the team but a homecoming journey. I believe I can bring strength and experience to help the Bears go further, and if given the chance, I’ll do everything I can to help the team achieve great things,” Mack shared. For Mack, the final decision will depend on the role he’s offered and which team is best positioned to contend for a Super Bowl in the years ahead. But as the Bears continue their pursuit of a championship, they remain one of the most attractive landing spots for this veteran pass rusher.