So, it’s divisional weekend. The energy around Foxborough right now is basically electric, and if you're trying to figure out what time do pats play sunday, you aren't alone. The New England Patriots are set to host the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on January 18, 2026.
Kickoff is officially scheduled for 3:00 PM EST.
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If you are on the West Coast, that’s a noon start. For the folks in Mid-America, you’re looking at 2:00 PM CST. It's that perfect mid-afternoon slot where the sun starts to dip behind the stadium lights just as the second half gets gritty.
Where to Watch the Game
You’ve got options. Honestly, the NFL isn't making it too hard to find this one. The game is being broadcast nationally on ABC and ESPN. If you’re a cord-cutter, you can stream it on ESPN+ or through services like Fubo or YouTube TV.
If you’d rather hear the local call—which, let’s be real, is often better—Bob Socci and Scott Zolak will be on 98.5 The Sports Hub. There is something about Zolak’s "Unicorns! Show ponies! Where's the beef?!" energy that just fits playoff football.
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Why This Sunday Is a Massive Deal
This isn't just another game. We are talking about a trip to the AFC Championship on the line. The Patriots finished the regular season with a staggering 14-3 record. That’s a ten-game swing from their 4-13 finish just two years ago. Mike Vrabel has this team playing a brand of "complementary football" that feels very... well, very 2004.
Drake Maye has looked every bit the franchise savior.
On the other side, the Houston Texans aren't exactly pushovers. DeMeco Ryans has built a defensive monster. They’re coming off a dominant 30-6 win over the Steelers last Monday night. Their pass rush, led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, is probably the most terrifying duo the Pats offensive line has seen all season.
Keys to the Game
If the Patriots want to move on to next week, a few things have to go right.
- Protect Maye: The Texans thrive on chaos. If New England can't handle the "modern Seattle-3" scheme Houston runs, it’s going to be a long afternoon.
- The Ground Game: The Pats need to establish the run early to keep that Houston pass rush honest.
- Special Teams: In January games at Gillette, field position is everything. Expect the kicking game to be a major factor if the wind picks up.
The betting markets currently have the Patriots as 3.5-point favorites. It’s a slim margin. Most experts are predicting a defensive battle, with the over/under sitting around 40.5 points.
What Happens Next?
If the Patriots win on Sunday, they’ll keep an eye on the Saturday matchup between the Buffalo Bills and the Denver Broncos. The winner of that game will be the opponent for the AFC Championship on January 25.
Wait. Don't forget the weather. Foxborough in mid-January is unpredictable. Currently, the forecast is looking like typical "Patriots weather"—cold, maybe a bit of a breeze, but mostly clear.
Your Game Day Checklist
Make sure your afternoon is cleared.
- Check the TV: Tune into ABC/ESPN by 2:45 PM for the pregame intros.
- Radio Sync: If you’re at the game or just want the local commentary, grab your radio for 98.5 FM.
- App Updates: Keep the Patriots official app open for real-time stats and injury updates.
- Food: Get the wings ready by 2:30. You don't want to be in the kitchen when the ball is in the air.
This game feels like a turning point for the "new era" of New England football. Whether you're watching from a sports bar in Southie or your couch in California, 3:00 PM EST is the time to be ready.
Go ahead and set those DVRs or reminders now so you don't miss a single snap of the divisional round action.