So, you’re scrambling to figure out what time do the pats play? I get it. Between the flex scheduling and the high-stakes chaos of the NFL playoffs, keeping track of the New England Patriots schedule feels like a full-time job. Honestly, if you aren't glued to your phone, you might miss the first quarter before you've even finished your pregame wings.
The New England Patriots are currently deep in the 2026 postseason hunt. Following a dominant 16-3 defensive clinic against the Los Angeles Chargers in the Wild Card round—a game where they basically channeled the '85 Bears—all eyes have shifted to the Divisional Round.
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When to Tune In: The Exact Kickoff Details
The Patriots are set to host the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Kickoff is officially scheduled for 3:00 PM ET.
This isn't just another game. It’s a rematch of a regular-season clash, but with much higher stakes. If you’re watching from home, the game will be broadcast nationally on ABC and ESPN. If you prefer the local flavor, Scott Zolak and the crew will be on 98.5 The Sports Hub, with pregame coverage starting as early as noon. Seriously, the tailgating energy in Foxborough starts hours before the sun even peaks.
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The Playoff Roadmap
- Matchup: Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM ET
- Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
- TV Channel: ABC / ESPN / ESPN+
What Really Happened with the Schedule
People always ask why the time keeps changing. It’s basically the NFL’s "flex" magic. For the Divisional Round, the league waits to see which matchups generate the most buzz. Because the Patriots finished the regular season 14-3 (a massive 10-game swing from last year’s 4-13 disaster), they are "must-see" TV again. Drake Maye has turned this offense into something actually watchable, while the defense remains a brick wall.
The Texans are coming off a 30-6 demolition of the Steelers. C.J. Stroud is playing like a man possessed, but he’s walking into a freezer. The forecast for Sunday in Foxborough is looking like typical January football weather—cold enough to make the ball feel like a rock.
The Drake Maye Factor
Let's talk about why everyone is asking what time do the pats play this year specifically. It’s the Maye effect. Last year, the vibe was... grim. Now? We've got a rookie quarterback who actually pushes the ball downfield. According to PFF, Maye’s passer rating under pressure has been among the best in the league this season. He isn't just "managing" games; he's winning them.
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Against the Chargers, the stats were wild. The Pats allowed zero touchdowns. None. When a defense is playing like that, the offense just needs to not turn the ball over. But with Stefon Diggs firing up the locker room and the run game finding its rhythm, New England looks like a legitimate Super Bowl contender again. It’s weird to say that so soon after the Belichick era, but here we are.
Watching the Game Without Cable
If you’ve cut the cord, don't panic. You can stream the game on ESPN+ or through services like FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV. Just make sure your login works about 20 minutes before 3:00 PM. There is nothing worse than seeing a "forgot password" screen while the opening kickoff is mid-air.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans
- Sync Your Calendar: Set a reminder for 2:30 PM ET on Sunday to ensure you’re settled before the 3:00 PM kickoff.
- Check the Weather: If you're heading to Gillette, wear layers. Early projections suggest temperatures in the high 20s with a wind chill that’ll bite.
- Monitor the Injury Report: Keep an eye on Nico Collins for the Texans. He left the last game with a concussion, and his availability changes how the Patriots will scheme their secondary.
- Plan Your Route: If you are driving to Foxborough, remember that Route 1 is a parking lot on game days. Aim to arrive at the lots at least three hours early if you want to actually see the kickoff.