The AFC Championship came down to the wire. The Broncos and Patriots were locked in a defensive battle, and the defenses got another boost during the game. It snowed heavily in Denver along with strong winds, and field conditions worsened. Visibility was down, and the weather got crazy. It set the stage for a dramatic finish, and people on social media expressed their views about the weather change.
NFL World Reacts to Snow in Denver
The weather changed dramatically at halftime. While the teams were in the locker rooms, the snow began to fall. Now, it’s covering the field and blowing in all directions.
“The snow is going this way. The. It’s going the other way. Then it’s going up. And I don’t think you can really see how wild it is on the game broadcast,” said NFL insider James Palmer.
The snow is going this way. The. It’s going the other way. Then it’s going up. And I don’t think you can really see how wild it is on the game broadcast pic.twitter.com/SKpQM1934G
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) January 25, 2026
Palmer is in the stadium and asserted that it’s crazier than it appears. It’s getting tough to throw the ball, and with the game within three points, field goals are going to be tough to make. In the playoffs, finding a way to win is a necessity, and whichever team makes the most plays will win.
Playoff football. pic.twitter.com/nsEBst9wBI
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 25, 2026
The conditions were not looking good, and NFL analyst Louis Riddick chimed in.
“Conditions in Denver are NOT fun,” said Riddick.
Conditions in Denver are NOT fun.
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) January 25, 2026
The snow looks cool for everyone, but the players and the others on the field.
“I will admit the snow looks cool on TV, I do have empathy for the fans, players, coaches and officials, however,” said one reporter.
I will admit the snow looks cool on TV
I do have empathy for the fans, players, coaches and officials, however pic.twitter.com/5YVD0oIdrU
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) January 25, 2026
The conditions affected both teams, but the teams around the league have already started building domes to eliminate weather as a factor. NFL insider Albert Breer weighed in on the idea and seemed to enjoy watching the snow game.
“I’ll remember today in 10 years when 80% of the league is playing inside,” said Breer.
I’ll remember today in 10 years when 80% of the league is playing inside.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) January 25, 2026
At the end of the day, the New England Patriots are going to the Super Bowl. Drake Maye’s gutsy third-down run sealed the game for the Patriots. The weather made him stop throwing the ball, but it didn’t stop Maye from making the winning plays.
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.
