The thrill of NFL game day, the roar of the crowd, the electrifying plays – it’s an experience every football fan cherishes. But with the rising cost of cable TV, many are seeking alternative, more budget-friendly ways to catch their favorite teams in action. If you’re wondering about the cheapest way to watch NFL games without cable, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will break down all the options available, allowing you to make an informed choice that suits your viewing preferences and your wallet.
Understanding the NFL Broadcasting Landscape
cheapest way to watch nfl games without cable
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand how NFL games are broadcast. The NFL has agreements with several networks, including:
- CBS: Broadcasts AFC games on Sundays
- FOX: Broadcasts NFC games on Sundays
- NBC: Broadcasts Sunday Night Football
- ESPN: Broadcasts Monday Night Football
- Amazon Prime Video: Broadcasts Thursday Night Football
- NFL Network: Offers a mix of live games, analysis, and original programming
To watch all NFL games, you need access to these channels. Traditionally, this meant subscribing to a cable TV package. However, with the advent of streaming services, there are now several cheaper ways to watch NFL games without cable.
The Cheapest Options: A Breakdown
- NFL+
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Cost:
- NFL+ (Essential): $6.99/month or $49.99/year
- NFL+ Premium: $14.99/month or $99.99/year
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What You Get:
- Live local and primetime games on your phone or tablet
- Live out-of-market preseason games across all devices
- Live game audio (home, away, & national calls) for every game
- NFL Films and shows on-demand (ad-free)
- Premium: All features of NFL+ plus full & condensed game replays across all devices and live All-22 coaches film
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Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Access to live games on mobile devices
- Includes NFL RedZone (Premium only)
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Cons:
- Limited to mobile devices for live games (Essential)
- No live out-of-market regular season games on TV
- No access to local broadcasts
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Best For: Budget-conscious fans who primarily watch games on their phone or tablet and are okay with limited access to live games on TV.
- Antenna + Streaming Service
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Cost:
- Antenna: $20-$60 (one-time cost)
- Streaming service: Varies depending on the service
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What You Get:
- Free access to local channels (CBS, FOX, NBC) with an antenna
- Access to ESPN, Monday Night Football, and potentially other NFL games depending on the streaming service you choose
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Pros:
- Can be very affordable, especially if you already have a streaming service
- Access to live local games in your market
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Cons:
- Requires an antenna and a streaming service subscription
- No access to out-of-market games unless your streaming service offers it
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Best For: Fans who primarily want to watch their local team’s games and already have a streaming service that includes ESPN.
- Live TV Streaming Services
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Cost: Varies depending on the service, typically $70-$80/month
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What You Get:
- Access to all major broadcast networks (CBS, FOX, NBC)
- Access to ESPN and Monday Night Football
- Potentially access to NFL Network and NFL RedZone depending on the service and add-ons
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Pros:
- Most comprehensive option for watching NFL games
- Access to live local and national games
- No need for an antenna
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Cons:
- Can be more expensive than other options
- May require additional add-ons for NFL Network or NFL RedZone
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Best For: Fans who want the most complete NFL viewing experience and are willing to pay a bit more for it.
Choosing the Right Option: Factors to Consider
When deciding on the cheapest way to watch NFL games without cable, consider the following factors:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend each month?
- Viewing Habits: Do you mainly watch your local team’s games or are you interested in out-of-market games?
- Device Preference: Do you prefer watching on your TV, phone, or tablet?
- Additional Features: Are you interested in features like NFL RedZone or game replays?
Additional Tips & Tricks
- Free Trials: Many streaming services offer free trials. Take advantage of these to test out different services and see which one best suits your needs.
- Shared Accounts: If you have friends or family who also want to watch NFL games, consider sharing a streaming service account to split the cost.
- Local Bars and Restaurants: If you’re okay with watching games in a public setting, many bars and restaurants show NFL games on their TVs.
- Over-the-Air (OTA) DVR: If you opt for an antenna, consider getting an OTA DVR to record your local games and watch them later.
Staying Up-to-Date on NFL Streaming Options
The world of streaming is constantly evolving. New services and deals emerge regularly, so it’s important to stay informed about the latest options. Follow tech and sports news outlets, read online reviews, and compare different services to ensure you’re always getting the best value for your money.
Conclusion
Cutting the cord and watching NFL games without cable is easier and more affordable than ever. By understanding the different options available and considering your individual needs, you can find the cheapest way to watch NFL games without cable that delivers the excitement and thrills of game day right to your screen.
Remember: Don’t let the cost of cable keep you from enjoying your favorite sport. Embrace the world of streaming and experience the NFL in a whole new way.