The National Football League (NFL) is one of the most popular sports leagues in the world, with a huge following both in the United States and internationally. For fans who want to catch every game, finding the right streaming or broadcasting service can be a challenge. With the rise of cord-cutting and the proliferation of streaming services, there are now more ways than ever to watch NFL games. Here’s a comprehensive guide on where to watch all NFL games, including live streaming options, TV broadcasts, and alternative platforms.
Live Streaming Options
NFL Sunday Ticket: This is the most comprehensive way to watch all NFL games, live and out-of-market. It’s available through DirecTV but also has a streaming option for those who cannot get DirecTV due to location or preference. However, it’s primarily aimed at fans who can’t get their local teams’ games through regular TV.
NFL RedZone: While not offering full-game broadcasts, NFL RedZone provides live coverage of all Sunday afternoon games, cutting to any game where a team is in the “red zone” (i.e., about to score). It’s available as part of various cable and satellite packages and can also be streamed through services like Sling TV and YouTube TV.
Hulu with Live TV: Offers live NFL games through its streaming service, including ESPN, FOX, CBS, and NBC in many markets, making it a great option for catching a wide variety of games.
Amazon Prime Video: Amazon has secured the rights to stream Thursday Night Football games, making it a must-have for fans who want to watch these matchups. Additionally, it provides a unique viewing experience with its “X-Ray” feature, offering insights into player and team stats during the games.
YouTube TV: Provides live access to NFL games through its streaming service, which includes networks like ESPN, FOX, CBS, and NBC. It’s a solid option for those looking to cut the cord without missing out on their favorite NFL teams.
Sling TV: Offers various packages that can include NFL Network and RedZone, providing an affordable option for fans to catch numerous games throughout the season.
FuboTV: While initially focused on soccer, FuboTV has expanded its offerings to include NFL games, making it a viable option for football fans, especially those interested in international sports as well.
Paramount+ (formerly CBS All Access): For fans who want to watch games broadcast on CBS, Paramount+ offers live streaming of local CBS stations in many markets, including NFL games on Sundays.
Peacock by NBCUniversal: Provides streaming of Sunday Night Football games, as well as other sports content, making it a good choice for those primarily interested in NBC’s NFL offerings.
ESPN+: While not offering traditional NFL games, ESPN+ has exclusive rights to certain sports content, including NFLDraft coverage and documentaries, making it a great supplementary service for the most dedicated fans.
TV Broadcasts
- CBS: Broadcasts AFC games on Sundays, including doubleheader games and the late game in the East and West time zones.
- FOX: Broadcasts NFC games on Sundays, including doubleheader games and a late game.
- NBC: Home to Sunday Night Football, the premier primetime matchup of the week, as well as certain playoff games and the Super Bowl on a rotating basis.
- ESPN: Offers Monday Night Football, exclusive to the cable network.
- NFL Network: Broadcasts certain Thursday Night Football games and offers comprehensive NFL coverage, including news, analysis, and exclusive programming.
International Viewers
For fans outside the United States, accessing NFL games can be more complicated due to broadcast rights varying by country. However, many of the streaming services mentioned above offer international access, either directly or through VPNs (though check the terms of service for any streaming platform before using a VPN). Additionally, specific international broadcasts may be available through local TV networks or specialized sports channels.
Conclusion
Watching all NFL games in a single season can be a significant undertaking, requiring a combination of streaming services, TV broadcasts, and potentially some creative navigating of broadcast rights. However, with the right mix of platforms and a bit of dedication, it’s entirely possible for fans anywhere in the world to catch every snap, tackle, and touchdown of the NFL season.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to watch NFL games if I’ve cut the cord?
+For cord-cutters, services like Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV offer excellent options to watch NFL games. Each provides access to different networks that broadcast NFL games, so consider which teams you want to watch most and choose accordingly.
Can I watch NFL games for free?
+While there are no legal, high-quality streaming services that offer all NFL games for free, some services offer free trials or limited free content. Additionally, over-the-air antennas can pick up local NFL broadcasts on CBS, FOX, and NBC for free, though this is limited to games broadcast in your area.
How can I watch NFL games internationally?
+International viewers can often access NFL games through local sports channels, NFL Game Pass (the official NFL streaming service for international fans), or by using a VPN with US-based streaming services (though check the terms of service for any streaming platform before using a VPN).
What devices support NFL streaming services?
+Most NFL streaming services are available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV, and web browsers on computers. Check the specific service’s website for a list of supported devices.
Can I watch NFL games on-demand after they air live?
+Yes, many streaming services offer on-demand access to NFL games after they air live. Additionally, NFL Game Pass provides access to full replays of every game, though blackout restrictions may apply for certain games in the United States.
