Chargers vs. Patriots NFL Playoff Preview: Game Information and How to Get Tickets

The postseason spotlight swings to Foxborough on Sunday night, where the Los Angeles Chargers take on the New England Patriots in a massive AFC Wild Card showdown. 

New England enters as the No. 2 seed at 14–3, claiming the AFC East and securing home-field advantage for Wild Card Weekend. The Chargers arrive as the No. 7 seed at 11–6, aiming to pull off a road upset and become just the second No. 7 seed ever to win a playoff game. 

With two dynamic teams in the mix on Sunday night, expect a game full of highlight-reel moments and playoff fireworks.

Game Details for Chargers vs. Patriots

Here is what you need to know before kickoff between these two AFC contenders.

• Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026

• Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

• Venue:Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts

• Average Resale Ticket Price on SeatGeek: Around $403

• Cheapest Tickets on SeatGeek:You can get Chargers-Patriots tickets at SeatGeek starting at $217!

If you’re looking to go to the game, make sure to check out our top tips for saving money on NFL playoff tickets.

NFL Playoff History for the Chargers and Patriots

The New England Patriots are one of the most decorated postseason franchises in NFL history. The organization has made numerous Super Bowl appearances and captured six Lombardi Trophies, building a reputation for thriving under playoff pressure—especially at home in Foxborough.

The Chargers have had fewer postseason runs but no shortage of memorable moments, with playoff appearances spanning their time in San Diego and Los Angeles. Still searching for their first Super Bowl title, the Chargers enter this matchup looking to knock off a heavyweight and make a deep January run.

These two franchises have crossed paths in the playoffs before, with New England holding the 3-1 edge in postseason meetings. Their last meeting came in the Divisional Round back on Jan. 2019, when a Tom Brady-led Patriots squad rolled to a 41-28 victory over the Chargers. 

Top Players to Watch in Chargers vs. Patriots

Every playoff game comes down to stars delivering in critical moments, and this matchup features elite talent on both sides of the ball.

Los Angeles Chargers

• Justin Herbert — One of the league’s premier quarterbacks, Herbert’s arm strength, accuracy and ability to make plays under pressure give the Chargers a chance against any opponent. His performance will be central to L.A.’s upset hopes.

• Derwin James — A tone-setter on defense, James impacts the game at every level. His versatility and instincts make him a difference-maker in slowing down New England’s offense.

New England Patriots

• Drake Maye — The second-year quarterback has quickly become the face of New England’s offense and emerged as a top MVP candidate this regular season. Poised beyond his years, Maye’s decision-making and incredible playmaking ability have fueled the Patriots’ rise back into contention.

• Christian Gonzalez — One of the league’s premier young cornerbacks, Gonzalez’s ability to lock down receivers and create turnovers could swing momentum in a tight playoff game.

Unique Features of Gillette Stadium

Gillette Stadium isn’t just another outdoor NFL venue—it’s a fortress where postseason football takes on a distinctly New England flavor. With a capacity of over 65,000, the stadium combines intimidating sightlines, passionate fans, and the region’s notorious January weather to create an atmosphere few visiting teams can handle.

The cold, often blustery conditions are more than a backdrop—they’re a factor. Wind swirling across the field can affect every throw, every kick, and every long drive, turning precision into a premium. Fans sit close to the action thanks to steep bowl-style seating, and the roar of the home crowd grows as the temperature drops, creating an acoustic wall that challenges even the NFL’s best offenses.

Gillette’s combination of history, strategy-shaping weather and a fan base that truly “knows the game” makes it one of the league’s most unique and formidable playoff environments—a place where road teams are tested as much by the elements as by the Patriots themselves.

Gillette Stadium Fan Experience and What to Know Before You Go

Parking and Transit: On-site and nearby parking lots fill quickly for playoff games at Gillette Stadium. Many fans take the MBTA Commuter Rail or local buses to the stadium to avoid traffic, while rideshare drop-off and pick-up zones help streamline arrivals and departures.

Pregame Atmosphere and Tailgating: Tailgating at Gillette Stadium is a playoff ritual. Hours before kickoff, fans pack the lots with grills, games, and music, creating a festival-like environment that carries straight through the opening kickoff. From tents to team flags and high-energy cheers, the atmosphere outside the stadium sets the tone for one of the league’s toughest postseason environments. 

Food and Drinks: Gillette Stadium keeps fans fueled with classic stadium fare and New England favorites:

• Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls – Local seafood specialties for a taste of New England flavor.

• Burgers, Hot Dogs and Fries – Stadium staples done right for quick, satisfying bites.

• Club and Suite Dining – Premium meals and drinks in Gillette Stadium’s exclusive areas.

Stadium Policies: Gillette Stadium enforces a clear bag policy and requires all guests to pass through security screening. Outside food and drinks are not permitted, and policies can vary for postseason games—fans should check official stadium guidelines before arriving.

How to Grab Chargers vs. Patriots Playoff Tickets on SeatGeek

Scoring your spot for Sunday night’s high-stakes matchup at Gillette Stadium is quick and hassle-free with SeatGeek:

Step 1: Find the game Fire up the SeatGeek app or website and search for “Chargers vs. Patriots” to browse every available ticket option for this playoff showdown.

Step 2: Know the full price Every listing shows the all-in price, including fees, so there are no surprises at checkout—what you see is what you pay.

Step 3: Choose your vantage point Use filters for price, section, or Deal Score, and preview seats on the interactive Gillette Stadium map to see how each section frames the action.

Step 4: Lock it in Once you’ve picked your ideal seats, complete your purchase in just a few taps and secure your place for the game.

Step 5: Head to the action Tickets appear instantly in the SeatGeek app under “My Tickets,” ready to scan at the gate—no printing required—so you can focus on tailgating, the pregame buzz, and the kickoff.