NFL Football TV Coverage: Channels and Schedules Explained Simply

The excitement of NFL football is building, and fans are eager to catch their favorite teams in action. With numerous games taking place across various channels and networks, navigating the TV coverage can be overwhelming. Understanding which channels broadcast NFL games and when they’re scheduled is crucial for an uninterrupted viewing experience.

Understanding NFL TV Coverage

The NFL has partnerships with several major networks to broadcast games across the United States. These networks include:

1. NBC (NBCUniversal): Known for primetime Sunday night games through their “Sunday Night Football” package, NBC also airs select playoff games and the prestigious Thanksgiving night game.
2. CBS (Paramount Global): CBS holds the rights to broadcast AFC games, including the AFC Championship game. They also air the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, making them a significant player in sports broadcasting.
3. FOX (Fox Corporation): FOX is the home of NFC games, including the NFC Championship. They also broadcast a significant number of Sunday afternoon games.
4. ESPN/ABC (The Walt Disney Company): ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” is a staple of NFL viewing, offering primetime Monday night games. ABC, under the ESPN umbrella, also airs select NFL games, including some playoff matches.
5. NFL Network: The NFL’s own network offers exclusive coverage, including live games, analysis shows, and documentaries.
6. Amazon Prime Video: Amazon has secured the rights to stream certain NFL games, including Thursday Night Football, exclusively to its Prime members.

Deciphering NFL Schedules

NFL schedules can be complex, with games spread across various days and times. Here’s a breakdown:

• Thursday Night Football: Games typically kick off at 8:20 PM ET, with Amazon Prime Video holding exclusive streaming rights.
• Sunday Night Football: NBC’s primetime package airs at 8:20 PM ET on Sundays.
• Monday Night Football: ESPN’s Monday night games start at 8:15 PM ET.
• Sunday Afternoon Games: These are spread across CBS and FOX, depending on the teams playing. Kickoff times vary, but most games start between 1:00 PM ET and 4:25 PM ET.

How to Access NFL Games

1. Traditional TV: Most NFL games are available on traditional TV through the networks mentioned. Subscribers to cable or satellite TV can tune into CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN/ABC to catch live games.
2. Streaming Services: For those preferring streaming, options include:
   • NFL Sunday Ticket: Available on DirecTV and YouTube TV, offering all out-of-market Sunday afternoon games.
   • NFL Game Pass: The NFL’s own streaming service provides access to live and on-demand games, though it’s more geared towards international fans due to blackout restrictions.
   • Amazon Prime Video: For Thursday Night Football and other select games.
   • Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV: These services offer live TV streaming, including the major networks that broadcast NFL games.

Planning Your NFL Viewing

To make the most of your NFL viewing experience, consider the following tips:

• Check Schedules in Advance: NFL schedules are released well before the season starts. Mark your calendar for the games you want to watch.
• Understand Blackout Rules: Some games may be blacked out in certain areas, depending on local TV rights. NFL Sunday Ticket can help bypass these restrictions for out-of-market games.
• Subscribe to Relevant Services: Ensure you have access to the channels or streaming services that broadcast your favorite team’s games.

Making Sense of NFL TV Coverage and Schedules

Navigating NFL TV coverage and schedules can be straightforward with the right information. By understanding which networks broadcast NFL games and how to access them, fans can enjoy a seamless viewing experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, knowing where and when to watch your favorite team is key to enjoying the NFL season.

Frequently Asked Questions