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TIME UPDATE: Wild Card Playoff Game Between the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers Could Be Adjusted Due to Heavy Snow Conditions in Pittsburgh – Game Information

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 8, 2026

The AFC Wild Card matchup between the Houston Texans and the Pittsburgh Steelers is being closely monitored by league officials as heavy snow conditions in western Pennsylvania could directly impact the game’s kickoff window. According to updated forecasts, snowfall is expected to develop during the evening hours, potentially intensifying near kickoff and prompting the NFL to prepare contingency plans should conditions worsen.

Current weather data indicates temperatures hovering around 36°F (2°C) with a RealFeel closer to freezing, overcast skies, and sustained winds from the west at approximately 20–25 km/h, with stronger gusts possible. Snow accumulation is projected to increase as the night progresses, raising concerns about visibility, footing, and overall field conditions at Acrisure Stadium.

If snowfall becomes heavy or field conditions are deemed unsafe, the NFL may adjust the kickoff time by up to ±30 minutes to ensure player safety, officiating accuracy, and broadcast operations. This protocol is familiar for postseason games played in northern outdoor venues and does not indicate a postponement to another day, unless extreme weather warnings are issued.

Game Information (Tentative):

  • Date: Monday, January 12, 2026 (Monday Night Football – final game of Wild Card Weekend)

  • Kickoff:

    • 8:00 p.m. ET

  • 7:15 p.m. CT (Houston local time)
    (Subject to ±30-minute adjustment if snowfall intensifies)

  • Location: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

  • Broadcast: ESPN & ABC (nationwide simulcast)

  • Streaming: ESPN+, Fubo, and related platforms

  • Alternate broadcast: ManningCast on ESPN2 / ESPN+

  • The matchup carries additional intrigue given the conditions. The Steelers enter the game undefeated at home on Monday night and are historically comfortable in cold, snowy environments. The Texans, meanwhile, arrive as betting favorites behind quarterback C.J. Stroud and one of the league’s top-ranked defenses, though winter weather has the potential to neutralize speed and emphasize physicality.

    League officials, stadium operations, and both teams will continue monitoring weather developments leading up to kickoff. Whether adjusted or not, the Texans–Steelers showdown is expected to unfold under classic AFC North winter playoff conditions, where snow, wind, and resilience may play as decisive a role as talent.

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