What Channel Are the NFL Games on Today? Game day is a sacred time for NFL fans across the nation. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of your home team or just enjoy the thrill of the game, knowing where to watch is crucial. With numerous broadcasting options available, it can get a bit confusing trying to keep track of where to find your favorite matches. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about where to catch the NFL games, so you never miss out on the action again.
Why Knowing the Channel Matters
The Thrill of Game Day
For many fans, game day is an experience that transcends the mere act of watching a game. It’s about the atmosphere, the camaraderie, and the heart-pounding moments that unfold on the field. Picture this: the sun is shining, snacks are laid out, and your buddies are gathered around your TV, eagerly waiting for kickoff. The excitement is palpable, but if you find yourself fumbling through channels trying to locate the game, that excitement can quickly turn into frustration. Knowing the right channel to tune into can make all the difference in enhancing your game day experience.
Avoiding Game Day Confusion
With NFL games airing on multiple networks and streaming platforms, confusion can arise. You might ask yourself, “Is the game on CBS or FOX?” Or, “What if I miss the game because I didn’t check my local listings?” This guide aims to alleviate that confusion by breaking down where to find the games, whether you’re watching from home, at a friend’s house, or even on the go.
NFL Broadcasting Overview
Understanding the broadcasting landscape of the NFL is key to ensuring you catch every game. Here’s a breakdown of the national networks and cable channels that typically air NFL games.
National Broadcast Networks
The NFL has agreements with several major networks that provide broad coverage of games throughout the season.
CBS
CBS is your go-to network for most AFC matchups. If you’re rooting for teams like the New England Patriots or the Pittsburgh Steelers, you’ll likely find their games broadcasted on CBS. They also feature the iconic NFL on CBS theme, which has become synonymous with NFL Sundays.
FOX
On the flip side, FOX handles the bulk of the NFC games. If your allegiance lies with teams like the Green Bay Packers or the Seattle Seahawks, make sure to check FOX. They also air the popular NFL on FOX pregame show, which provides in-depth analysis and predictions.
NBC
For those craving the excitement of Sunday Night Football, NBC has you covered. This weekly primetime matchup is often one of the most anticipated games of the week, and NBC pulls out all the stops to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience.
ESPN
If you’re into Monday Night Football, you’ll want to tune into ESPN. This channel has been a staple for Monday night games for decades, featuring compelling matchups and celebrity guests in their pre-game coverage.
ABC
Although not as prominent in recent years, ABC occasionally broadcasts special NFL games, particularly during playoff seasons or significant events. Keep an eye out for any surprises during the season!
Cable Networks
In addition to national networks, there are also several cable networks dedicated to NFL coverage.
NFL Network
The NFL Network is an essential channel for fans, offering exclusive games, highlights, and around-the-clock NFL news. With special events like the NFL Draft and NFL Combine, it’s a must-have for any dedicated football aficionado.
Sports Plus Channels
Sports plus channels, like NFL RedZone, provide exciting viewing options. NFL RedZone allows you to catch all the touchdowns and crucial plays across different games, making it a fantastic choice for fantasy football enthusiasts.
NFL Network Schedule
| Time (EDT) | Event |
| 00:15 | NFL GameDay Final |
| 01:15 | NFL GameDay Final |
| 02:15 | NFL GameDay Final |
| 03:15 | New Orleans Saints at Kansas City Chiefs |
| 06:00 | NFL Weekly Slate |
| 07:00 | NFL GameDay Final |
| 08:00 | Good Morning Football |
| 10:00 | Good Morning Football |
| 12:00 | Good Morning Football |
| 14:00 | New Orleans Saints at Kansas City Chiefs |
| 17:00 | NFL Weekly Slate |
| 18:00 | NFL Fantasy Live |
| 19:00 | The Insiders |
| 20:00 | A Football Life Origins |
| 20:30 | Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals |
NFL Network Schedule
Streaming Options for NFL Games
In our digital age, you don’t have to be tethered to cable to enjoy NFL games. Streaming services are becoming increasingly popular, providing flexible options to watch on various devices.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video has emerged as a player in the NFL broadcasting space, especially for Thursday Night Football. If you have a Prime membership, you can watch these games live without additional costs.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers a comprehensive lineup that includes all the major networks airing NFL games. With its user-friendly interface and cloud DVR capabilities, you can record games and watch them at your convenience.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu’s live TV option is another excellent choice for NFL fans. With access to networks like CBS, FOX, and NBC, you can catch nearly all the games. Plus, if you’re already a Hulu subscriber, it’s an easy add-on.
FuboTV
FuboTV is a dedicated sports streaming service that provides extensive coverage of NFL games. With its robust channel offerings, it’s perfect for fans looking to immerse themselves in football action.
Regional Coverage of NFL Games
Understanding local coverage is crucial, especially since not all games are available in every region.
Local Affiliates
Local affiliates determine what games you can watch based on your geographic location. This means that some games might not be available in your area, depending on the market and network agreements.
Understanding Market Areas
Each network has designated market areas (DMAs). Knowing your market area will help you understand which games will be broadcasted in your location, ensuring you don’t miss out on local matchups.
How to Check Your Local Listings
To check local listings, you can use various resources:
- Online TV Guides: Websites like TV Guide or Zap2it provide updated listings based on your ZIP code, helping you find out what’s airing.
- Network Websites: Most major networks provide local listings on their websites, which can be a handy reference for game day.
Primetime NFL Games: What to Watch
Primetime games are some of the most exciting parts of the NFL season. Here’s a quick look at what to expect.
Sunday Night Football
Sunday Night Football, aired on NBC, is often considered the crown jewel of the NFL schedule. Featuring the biggest matchups of the week, it’s a must-watch for any fan.
Monday Night Football
ESPN’s Monday Night Football is a long-standing tradition. These games often feature exciting rivalries and high-stakes matchups, making it a perfect way to start the week.
Thursday Night Football
Thursday Night Football is unique, as it rotates between networks like FOX and Amazon Prime Video. Be sure to check which network is airing the game for that week.
Flex Scheduling and Its Impact
What Is Flex Scheduling?
Flex scheduling is a system used by the NFL to move games around to maximize viewer engagement. This allows the league to showcase the most exciting matchups during primetime slots.
How It Affects Game Viewing
Flex scheduling can change which games air on which networks, so it’s essential to stay informed. If you’re set on watching a specific game, be sure to check for updates as game day approaches.
Stay Updated on Changes
Follow the NFL’s official channels for any announcements regarding flex scheduling. Keeping an eye on these updates will help you adjust your viewing plans accordingly.
International NFL Viewing
If you’re traveling abroad or living outside the U.S., you can still catch the NFL games.
Watching NFL Games Abroad
The NFL Game Pass allows international fans to access live games, replays, and highlights. This is an excellent option for those who don’t want to miss the action while overseas.
NFL Game Pass
NFL Game Pass provides a wealth of content, from live games to historical matchups, making it a valuable resource for fans around the globe.
Local Streaming Options
Depending on your country, local broadcasters might have agreements to air NFL games. Check local listings for the best options available to you.
How to Stay Informed About NFL Game Channels
Using TV Guide Apps
Several TV guide apps can simplify your viewing experience. Apps like TV Guide or JustWatch help you track what’s on and where, ensuring you never miss a game.
Checking NFL’s Official Website
The NFL’s official website is an authoritative source for all game-related information. It provides listings, broadcast times, and any changes in scheduling.
Social Media Channels
Follow the NFL’s social media accounts for real-time updates on game times and channel changes. Social media platforms are often the quickest way to stay informed.
Conclusion What Channel Are the NFL Games on Today?
Knowing what channel the NFL games are on today is essential for any football fan. With so many options available—from traditional networks to streaming services—there’s no excuse for missing out on the action. Whether you’re watching at home or on the go, staying informed will ensure you’re ready for every touchdown, interception, and game-winning play.
FAQs
What channel is NFL Network on?
The NFL Network’s channel varies based on your cable provider, but it typically falls within the range of channels like 212 to 220 on most cable systems. Check your provider for exact numbers.
Can I watch NFL games for free?
Yes, some games are available for free on networks like CBS, NBC, and FOX, depending on your location. Additionally, platforms like Hulu offer free trials, which can be used to watch games during the season.
What if I don’t have cable?
If you don’t have cable, there are plenty of streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV that offer NFL coverage. Many of these platforms also provide free trial periods.
How can I find out what games are on today?
You can check local listings through TV guide websites, the NFL’s official site, or apps that track programming based on your ZIP code.
Are there any streaming options for international viewers?
Yes! The NFL Game Pass allows international fans to watch live games and
