R1 The NFL is now reviewing the kickoff time for Bills vs. Patriots as Arctic-level cold and heavy snow threaten to turn Gillette Stadium into a frozen battleground.
FOXBOROUGH, MA — Week 15 sets up a classic AFC East showdown as the Buffalo Bills travel to Foxborough to face the New England Patriots, but winter weather across New England has placed the kickoff time under close observation heading into Sunday.
According to the latest National Weather Service outlook for the Foxborough area, Sunday (Dec. 14, 2025) is shaping up to be a challenging winter day. Forecasts currently call for very cold temperatures, gusty winds, and periods of snow, creating concerns around travel, stadium operations, and game-day conditions at Gillette Stadium.
Daytime highs are expected to hover in the low 30s°F, with wind chills pushing temperatures into the teens. Snow bands moving through eastern Massachusetts — particularly during the morning hours — could complicate access to the stadium and field preparation.
Schedule Status: Still Set — But Being Monitored Closely
As of now, the schedule remains unchanged, with the game still slated for:
Bills at Patriots
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Gillette Stadium — Foxborough, Massachusetts
However, league officials have acknowledged that a short delay remains possible if overnight snowfall or deteriorating conditions require additional time for snow removal, road treatment, or safety checks.
Why a Delay Is Being Considered
With an open-air venue like Gillette Stadium, the combination of cold, wind, and snow is more than just uncomfortable — it can create real operational and safety challenges, including:
- Slick roadways and parking areas for fans and staff
Snow-covered walkways and seating sections
Reduced visibility during early-game preparations
Frozen or snow-dusted field conditions
Wind impacting equipment setup and broadcast operations
NFL officials, in coordination with the Patriots, Bills, local authorities, and broadcast partners, are monitoring conditions hour by hour rather than locking into a rigid timetable too early.
Any potential adjustment would be designed to:
- Allow extra time for snow clearing and ice treatment
Improve travel safety for fans and staff
Ensure a playable and stable field surface
Reduce weather-related risks without postponing the game entirely
What Fans Should Expect
Even if kickoff remains on schedule, conditions are expected to feel brutally cold, especially once the sun fades and winds intensify. Fans attending the game are encouraged to dress in layers, plan extra travel time, and prepare for rapidly changing weather — a hallmark of late-season football in Foxborough.
Bottom Line
- Kickoff is still scheduled for Sunday afternoon
No official time change has been announced
A short delay remains possible depending on snow and wind trends
Updates will come directly from the NFL, Patriots, and Bills
This matchup already carried major AFC implications — and now, classic New England winter weather is adding another layer of drama.
Updated Game Snapshot — Bills vs. Patriots
- Matchup: Buffalo Bills at New England Patriots
Current Kickoff: Sunday · 1:00 p.m. ET (subject to monitoring)
Stadium: Gillette Stadium · Foxborough, MA
Weather Watch: Snow, strong winds, extreme cold
Time Change Watch:
Kickoff could be adjusted slightly if winter conditions worsen overnight.
