NFL Streaming Guide: How To Watch Every Game

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Hey football fans! Figuring out where to watch NFL games each week can feel like navigating a complicated maze. With so many streaming services, broadcast channels, and subscription options, it’s easy to get lost. But don't worry, guys! This guide breaks down all the ways you can catch every touchdown, field goal, and game-winning play, ensuring you never miss a moment of the NFL action.

Understanding Your NFL Viewing Options

Before diving into specific platforms, let’s get clear on the types of games and where they typically air. The NFL season includes:

  • Sunday Afternoon Games: These are usually split between CBS and Fox, with the specific matchups depending on your location. These channels are widely available through traditional cable, satellite, and streaming services.
  • Sunday Night Football: This primetime slot is exclusively on NBC and streams on Peacock.
  • Monday Night Football: Now primarily on ESPN, with select games also airing on ABC. These are available via cable, satellite, and most streaming platforms.
  • Thursday Night Football: Exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video.
  • NFL Network Games: A selection of games, including some international games, are broadcast on NFL Network.

Knowing where each type of game is broadcast is the first step in creating your viewing strategy. Now, let's explore the best platforms for watching!

Top Streaming Services for NFL Games

1. NFL+

NFL+ is the NFL's own streaming service, offering a direct way to watch games. While it doesn't provide live streams of all games, it's a great option for catching live local and primetime games on your mobile devices and tablets. With NFL+, you can also enjoy live game audio, NFL Network shows, and game replays. For those who are constantly on the go, this is the best option to watch the game wherever you go.

  • Pros:
    • Live local and primetime games on mobile.
    • Affordable price point.
    • Access to NFL Network content.
  • Cons:
    • Doesn't stream all games.
    • Limited to mobile devices and tablets for live games.

2. Paramount+

Paramount+ is an excellent choice for CBS games. A subscription to Paramount+ gives you access to live streams of all CBS-aired NFL games, including many Sunday afternoon matchups. It also offers a vast library of on-demand content, including movies, TV shows, and original series. Paramount+ typically has a free trial, allowing you to test the service before committing.

  • Pros:
    • Live CBS games.
    • Extensive on-demand library.
    • Affordable subscription plans.
  • Cons:
    • Only covers CBS games.

3. Peacock

For Sunday Night Football, Peacock is your go-to streaming service. NBC's streaming platform exclusively airs Sunday Night Football games, providing a high-quality viewing experience with pre- and post-game coverage. Peacock also offers a variety of other sports content, including Premier League soccer, WWE events, and original programming. Peacock is a must-have for fans who don't want to miss the biggest game of the week.

  • Pros:
    • Exclusive Sunday Night Football games.
    • Additional sports content.
    • Multiple subscription tiers.
  • Cons:
    • Only covers Sunday Night Football.

4. ESPN+ and the ESPN App

To watch Monday Night Football, you'll need access to ESPN. The ESPN app, available with a valid cable or streaming subscription that includes ESPN, allows you to stream Monday Night Football games live. ESPN+, a separate subscription service, offers additional sports content, including some exclusive NFL-related programming. Keep in mind that ESPN+ does not stream live Monday Night Football games; you still need a traditional ESPN subscription for that.

  • Pros:
    • Live Monday Night Football games (via ESPN app with a qualifying subscription).
    • Extensive sports coverage.
    • ESPN+ offers additional content.
  • Cons:
    • Requires a cable or streaming subscription for live Monday Night Football.
    • ESPN+ doesn't include live Monday Night Football games.

5. Amazon Prime Video

Thursday Night Football now lives exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can stream Thursday Night Football games at no additional cost. Amazon has invested heavily in producing a top-notch broadcast with engaging commentary and analysis. Besides NFL, Amazon Prime Video also offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content.

  • Pros:
    • Exclusive Thursday Night Football games.
    • High-quality broadcast production.
    • Included with Amazon Prime membership.
  • Cons:
    • Requires an Amazon Prime membership.

6. FuboTV

FuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that offers a comprehensive package of channels, including CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. This makes it a great option for fans who want to watch a wide variety of NFL games without needing multiple subscriptions. FuboTV also offers a variety of other sports channels, making it a great choice for overall sports enthusiasts. Be sure to check if regional sports networks (RSNs) are available in your area, as these carry local games.

  • Pros:
    • Comprehensive channel lineup including major networks and NFL Network.
    • Sports-focused streaming service.
    • Availability of regional sports networks (in some areas).
  • Cons:
    • Can be more expensive than other streaming services.

7. YouTube TV

YouTube TV is another excellent streaming service that includes CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. With YouTube TV, you can watch live NFL games on all major networks, plus enjoy unlimited DVR storage to record games and watch them later. YouTube TV also offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of other channels, making it a well-rounded option for cord-cutters.

  • Pros:
    • Includes major networks and NFL Network.
    • Unlimited DVR storage.
    • User-friendly interface.
  • Cons:
    • Price can be a barrier for some.

8. Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV is a popular streaming service that offers a combination of live TV channels and on-demand content. It includes CBS, Fox, NBC, and ESPN, allowing you to watch a variety of NFL games. With Hulu + Live TV, you also get access to Hulu's extensive on-demand library, including original series, movies, and TV shows. A good option to cut the cord.

  • Pros:
    • Includes major networks.
    • Access to Hulu's on-demand library.
    • Bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+.
  • Cons:
    • Doesn't include NFL Network in the base package.

Other Ways to Watch NFL Games

Traditional Cable and Satellite

Of course, traditional cable and satellite providers still offer comprehensive NFL coverage. Packages typically include CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, providing access to almost every game. While this option may be more expensive than streaming, it offers a reliable and familiar viewing experience.

NFL Game Pass International

For fans living outside the United States, NFL Game Pass International is a fantastic option. This service allows you to stream every NFL game live and on-demand, without any blackouts. It also includes access to NFL Network and other exclusive content. A great option for all the international fans.

Maximizing Your NFL Viewing Experience

  • Check Your Local Listings: Always verify your local listings to confirm which games are airing in your area. Matchups on CBS and Fox can vary depending on your location.
  • Take Advantage of Free Trials: Many streaming services offer free trials. Sign up for a free trial to test the service before committing to a subscription.
  • Consider Bundling Options: Some streaming services offer bundles that include multiple services at a discounted price. For example, Hulu + Live TV offers a bundle with Disney+ and ESPN+.
  • Use a VPN (if necessary): If you're traveling or living in an area with blackout restrictions, a VPN can help you bypass these restrictions and watch the games you want.

Conclusion

Watching NFL games has never been easier, thanks to the wide variety of streaming services and viewing options available. By understanding the different platforms and the games they offer, you can create a customized viewing strategy that ensures you never miss a moment of the action. So, gather your snacks, invite your friends, and get ready to enjoy another thrilling season of NFL football! Whether it's Sunday Afternoon, Sunday Night, Monday Night or Thursday Night Football, you'll be able to watch all your games.