Foxborough, Massachusetts – January 15, 2026
As the Houston Texans prepare to take the field for the biggest postseason game in franchise history, a wave of confusion briefly surfaced among fans Sunday night.
Was the game rescheduled?
Was kickoff moved?
The answer is no — but there will be a short delay, and it matters.
The AFC Divisional Round matchup between Houston and the New England Patriots will begin approximately 5 – 10 minutes later than the listed kickoff time to allow for a league-approved pregame ceremonial moment, a familiar NFL playoff tradition.
The game itself remains on schedule.
What the “Time Change” Actually Means
According to league officials, Sunday’s contest will include a brief pregame moment of reflection prior to kickoff. These ceremonies — which can include a moment of silence, prayer, or league-wide acknowledgment — are common during Divisional Round weekends and are designed to honor unity, perseverance, or significant moments impacting the NFL community.
This delay does not affect competitive preparation, broadcast windows, or in-game strategy. Once the ceremony concludes, the ball will be kicked and the game will proceed as normal.
Official Game Information (Confirmed)
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Matchup: Houston Texans (No. 5 seed, Away) vs New England Patriots (No. 2 seed, Home)
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Round: AFC Divisional Round – 2025 Season Playoffs
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Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
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Kickoff Time: 3:00 PM ET (actual kickoff expected shortly after)
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Venue: Gillette Stadium
TV: ESPN / ABC
Radio (Houston): SportsRadio 610
Why This Game Means Everything to Texans Fans
This isn’t just another playoff game. This is a turning-point moment.
One week ago, the Texans didn’t simply win a Wild Card game — they rewrote franchise history, dismantling the Pittsburgh Steelers 30 – 6 on the road for the first playoff road victory ever for Houston. It was a performance that forced the league to pay attention.
Now comes the next test — and it comes with history attached.
Houston is 0-2 all-time against New England in the postseason, with both losses coming at Gillette Stadium in 2012 and 2016. Those teams were competitive, but they walked away still chasing legitimacy.
This team arrives different.
Behind quarterback C.J. Stroud and powered by one of the league’s top defenses, the Texans enter Foxborough carrying momentum, belief, and a growing sense that their window is wide open. Across the field stands a Patriots team led by rookie quarterback Drake Maye, disciplined, opportunistic, and slightly favored at home.
It’s youth versus youth.
Momentum versus legacy.
And for Houston, it’s a chance to finally flip the script.
