TIME CHANGE: Texans vs. Patriots kickoff may be adjusted as a powerful winter storm turns New England into a brutal snow game – What Texans fans need to know

Foxborough, Massachusetts – January 16, 2026

The Houston Texans’ Divisional Round showdown against the New England Patriots could see a kickoff time adjustment, as a powerful winter storm is forecast to sweep through the New England region, threatening to turn Sunday’s playoff clash into one of the harshest weather games of the postseason.

According to the latest weather projections, conditions in Foxborough are expected to be extreme. Subfreezing temperatures, strong winds, and the potential for heavy snowfall have placed the NFL and event organizers on high alert. League officials are closely monitoring the situation, with scenarios ranging from a 30-minute to one-hour delay — or, if conditions deteriorate significantly, a potential adjustment to the scheduled kickoff time to ensure player safety and visibility.

For the Texans, this game represents yet another test of resilience. Houston already endured freezing conditions in Pittsburgh last week, but the forecast for Massachusetts suggests an even more severe challenge. A powerful cold front is expected to arrive right as playoff action unfolds, setting the stage for a true winter battle on one of the NFL’s most unforgiving stages.

The game was originally scheduled for a 3:00 p.m. kickoff at Gillette Stadium. However, updated forecast models indicate that conditions may worsen as the game progresses, with heavier snowfall and increasingly slick field conditions expected later in the afternoon. That timing concern has prompted the NFL to consider flexible options regarding kickoff to avoid the most dangerous window of the storm.

Wow! Remarkable trend continues. Chances Patriots Texans game ends up as a snow game are rising rapidly.

An east coast winter storm turning into a New England snow fest Sunday into early Monday. Chances are rising significantly for sure. 00z GFS and Canadian models with heavy… pic.twitter.com/u7ajAwtUS1

— Noah Bergren (@NbergWX) January 15, 2026

Meteorologist Noah Bergren noted that the likelihood of a snow-heavy environment continues to rise. An East Coast winter system could deliver significant snowfall along the I-95 corridor, stretching from Washington, D.C. through Boston. Both the GFS and Canadian weather models support a scenario in which snow persists from Sunday into early Monday, potentially impacting travel, visibility, and field conditions.

The broader playoff landscape has already seen weather play a major role in recent games. Last week’s Bears–Packers matchup was notably affected by winter conditions, and several other Divisional Round contests are facing similar forecasts, reinforcing how much Mother Nature has shaped this postseason.

For Houston, the challenge is clear. The Texans are not just facing a disciplined Patriots team on the road — they are preparing for a battle against the elements. Cold, wind, snow, and footing will all be factors that test conditioning, focus, and adaptability.

Conclusion: Texans vs. Patriots is shaping up to be more than a playoff matchup — it is a fight against weather, environment, and circumstance. Texans fans are encouraged to monitor official NFL updates closely, as kickoff timing could change. One thing is certain: Houston’s path forward may run straight through snow, ice, and one of the toughest environments the NFL has to offer.