Patriots vs. Texans weather: How slick Foxboro conditions played a factor New England's turnover-filled win

Jake Mozarsky

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Patriots vs. Texans weather: How slick Foxboro conditions played a factor New England's turnover-filled win image

In a battle dominated as much by the elements as the X’s and O’s, a relentless Foxborough snowstorm transformed Gillette Stadium into a swirling white canvas, dictating a grueling, turnover-heavy playoff clash.

While both the Patriots and Texans boast top-tier defensive units — with Houston entering the postseason ranked first in total defense — the slick, freezing conditions proved to be the more formidable opponent, as the heavy precipitation led to a chaotic flurry of fumbles and interceptions that defined the 28-16 New England victory.

The impact of the weather was felt immediately, forcing both Drake Maye and C.J. Stroud into uncharacteristic mistakes during a sloppy opening half that saw five total turnovers. Ultimately, it was the Patriots who best survived the elements; while Maye fumbled four times in the slippery conditions, New England's defense capitalized on a record-tying four first-half interceptions from Stroud to secure their spot in the AFC Championship.

Here's more on how the weather is affecting both sides in New England.

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Weather for Patriots-Texans

In Foxborough, it was 33°F and cloudy with a feels-like temperature of 28°F at the time of kickoff. While current conditions are cloudy, a heavy snowstorm is forecast for both Monday afternoon and evening, with a 76% chance of snow during the day and a 92% chance overnight.

Though, snow piled down since warmups. It hasn't covered the feel, but the conditions have played a role for sure. Both Maye and Stroud had fluttering passes, underthrows and turnovers in a gloomy New England. 

MORE: Latest weather updates for Patriots-Texans playoff game

Patriots vs. Texans turnovers

Weather isn't the sole factor for the turnover-heavy first half, but it has played a role in a battle between two elite defenses.

Both Stroud and Maye had a turnover in the first quarter, with Stroud throwing his first interception of the game on an overthrow to Christian Kirk.

Maye turned it over on the next drive, with the ball getting punched out before he was down.

When the Texans had a 10-7 lead, Stroud threw another interception, which ended up being the first pick-six of his career. 

It kept getting worse for the Texans quarterback. Though his third interception wasn't fully his fault, it was a huge turning point in a second quarter dominated by New England. This turnover went through the hands of Xavier Hutchinson and right into the hands of New England's Craig Woodson.

Right before the second half, Stroud threw his fourth interception. Once again, the ball was underthrown and Carlton Davis came down with it for his second interception of the game.

Both Houston and New England have top scoring defenses in the NFL, and the first half has been ruled by turnovers. It's the Patriots who have been the main beneficiary, and that's why they lead by two scores.

The second half started no different. After the Texans cut the lead to one possession, the defense forced Maye's second lost fumble of the game.

The Patriots defense got the ball right back, with Woody Marks fumbling for the eighth turnover of the game in the red zone.

There were eight total turnovers in the game, five for Houston and three for New England.

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Senior Editor