The excitement of NFL football is back, and fans are eager to catch their favorite teams in action. With the ever-changing landscape of sports broadcasting, there are now multiple ways to watch NFL football on TV. Whether you’re a traditional cable subscriber or a streaming enthusiast, we’ve got you covered with the top 5 ways to watch NFL football on TV today.
Traditional Cable and Satellite TV
For many years, traditional cable and satellite TV have been the go-to options for watching NFL football. Major networks like NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN broadcast numerous games throughout the season. If you have a cable or satellite subscription, you can catch live NFL action on these channels. The benefits include high-quality video, reliable streaming, and the ability to watch games on multiple devices with some providers.
According to a report by Leichtman Research Group, as of 2023, about 44% of U.S. households still subscribe to traditional pay TV services, making it a viable option for NFL fans.
To watch NFL on traditional TV, ensure you have a subscription that includes the necessary channels. For example, NBC broadcasts Sunday night games and some playoff matches, while CBS and FOX cover various Sunday afternoon games. ESPN, on the other hand, is known for its Monday Night Football broadcasts.
NFL Sunday Ticket on DirecTV
NFL Sunday Ticket is a specialized package offered by DirecTV that allows subscribers to watch every out-of-market NFL game on Sundays. This is particularly useful for fans whose favorite teams are not broadcast locally. While it’s primarily associated with DirecTV, there’s also an NFL Sunday Ticket streaming option available for those without a DirecTV subscription.
NFL Sunday Ticket on DirecTV provides access to all out-of-market Sunday games, making it a must-have for die-hard NFL fans.
Streaming Services
The rise of streaming services has revolutionized how we consume sports, including NFL football. Several platforms now offer live NFL games, either as part of their standard packages or through add-ons.
- YouTube TV: Offers a comprehensive sports package, including NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN, making it an excellent choice for NFL fans.
- Hulu with Live TV: Includes the same major networks as YouTube TV, providing access to a wide range of NFL games.
- Sling TV: Offers various channel packages, including some that cover NFL games. While it might not have all the major networks in one package, it’s a flexible option.
- FuboTV: Primarily a sports-focused service, FuboTV includes major networks and is known for its sports coverage, including NFL games.
Pros and Cons of Streaming Services
- Pros:
- Flexibility to watch on various devices
- No long-term contracts
- Often more affordable than traditional cable
- Cons:
- Potential for streaming issues
- May not include all desired channels in base packages
- Some services may have blackout restrictions
NFL App and Streaming Platforms
The NFL has its own app and streaming platform, offering various content, including live games, through services like NFL Game Pass. While not all live games are available due to broadcasting rights, the NFL app provides access to certain live streams, replays, and exclusive content.
How to Watch NFL Games on the NFL App
- Download the NFL app on your device.
- Sign in with your cable or streaming service provider credentials.
- Navigate to the live games section.
- Watch available live games or access other NFL content.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video has secured the rights to stream Thursday Night Football games, making it a significant player in NFL broadcasting. As part of Amazon’s broader sports strategy, Thursday Night Football is available to stream for free on Twitch, but with Amazon Prime Video, viewers can enjoy a more comprehensive and commercial-free experience.
Can I watch NFL games on multiple devices with streaming services?
+Yes, most streaming services allow you to watch NFL games on multiple devices simultaneously, depending on your subscription plan. Check the specific service's policy for details.
Is NFL Sunday Ticket available for streaming without DirecTV?
+Yes, NFL Sunday Ticket is available for streaming through Google's streaming service for the 2023 season, offering an alternative to traditional DirecTV subscription.
Do I need Amazon Prime to watch Thursday Night Football?
+No, you don't necessarily need an Amazon Prime membership to watch Thursday Night Football, as some games are streamed for free on platforms like Twitch. However, Amazon Prime Video offers a more comprehensive viewing experience.
Can I watch NFL games on traditional TV without a cable subscription?
+Yes, you can watch NFL games on traditional TV without a cable subscription by using streaming services that offer live TV, such as YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, or Sling TV, which include major networks that broadcast NFL games.
In conclusion, watching NFL football on TV today is more diverse than ever, with options ranging from traditional cable and satellite TV to various streaming services and the NFL’s own platforms. Whether you’re a cord-cutter or a traditional TV subscriber, there’s a way to catch your favorite NFL teams in action. By understanding the available options and their benefits, fans can choose the best method to enjoy the NFL season.
