What time is football on today: Texans-Patriots 3 p.m., Rams-Bears 6:30 p.m.

What time is football on today brings two high-stakes playoff showdowns. The Houston Texans face the New England Patriots at 3 p.m. ET before the Los Angeles Rams battle the Chicago Bears at 6:30 p.m. ET. Both divisional round matchups carry massive implications for the AFC and NFC championship picture.

Texans Seek Historic Journey Against Elite Patriots

The Houston Texans stunned the Pittsburgh Steelers last weekend, securing their first-ever road playoff victory after years of postseason futility. Now C.J. Stroud and the young Texans squad travel to Gillette Stadium for a monumental divisional round contest. The New England Patriots enter as 3.5-point favorites, backed by a dynamic offense that dominated the No. 1 seed race.

Houston’s running back Woody Marks rushed for 112 yards in the wild-card victory, signaling a balanced attack. The Texans feature a young, hungry roster eager to claim their first AFC Championship Game appearance. A victory would mark a stunning turnaround after dropping their first three games this season.

Rams and Bears Clash in Chicago Subzero Battle

The Los Angeles Rams arrive at Soldier Field as 3.5-point road favorites, a rare distinction in playoff football. Matthew Stafford leads a high-powered offense designed to compete in any condition. Meanwhile, Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears prepare for brutal weather with temperatures projected around 7 degrees and winds gusting to 27 mph.

This matchup represents a clash of elite quarterback talent. Williams finished the regular season with 3,942 passing yards and 27 touchdown passes. Stafford brings championship experience and proven playoff performance. The bitterly cold conditions at Soldier Field could significantly impact passing accuracy and field position.

“The Rams come in as road favorites for the second straight week, giving the Bears 3.5 points on the spread. It’s rare for the road team to be favored by any number of points, but 3.5 is a big spread for the divisional round.”

— Rams Wire, USA Today Analysis

How to Watch Both Playoff Games Today

The Texans-Patriots game airs on ABC and ESPN at 3 p.m. ET from Gillette Stadium. Viewers can also stream directly on NFL+ and Fubo. ESPN Deportes provides Spanish-language coverage for interested fans. The broadcast features expert analysis and live scoring from one of the most intriguing first-round matchups.

The Rams-Bears divisional round showdown kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET and broadcasts exclusively on NBC and Peacock. Fans can also find live coverage through Fox Sports. Bundle both games tonight for a full day of high-stakes NFL playoff football with championship implications.

What Makes Today’s Quarterback Battles So Compelling?

C.J. Stroud represents the Houston franchise’s future after a humble start this season. The young signal-caller recently became the youngest quarterback to win a road playoff game, surpassing Michael Vick’s historical record. His composure under pressure matches the urgent playoff moment facing the Texans at Gillette.

Caleb Williams carries similar generational expectations in Chicago. His 27 touchdown passes and 3,942 passing yards demonstrate sophomore-year growth. Facing Matthew Stafford’s championship resume, Williams must prove he belongs among elite playoff-caliber quarterbacks in subzero Chicago temperatures that challenge even veterans.

Michael Brown

Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.