The NFL season is a thrilling rollercoaster of emotions for fans across the globe, and the desire to witness every exhilarating moment, every crucial play, and every nail-biting finish is insatiable. However, navigating the intricate web of broadcasting rights and streaming platforms to figure out how to get all NFL games can be daunting. With different games airing on various networks and services, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not, football fanatics, for we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to unravel the complexities and ensure you never miss a single down.
The Evolving Landscape of NFL Broadcasting
Gone are the days when cable TV was the sole gateway to the NFL universe. Today’s broadcasting landscape is a dynamic mix of traditional television networks, streaming services, and digital platforms. Let’s break down the key players:
- Network Television: CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN continue to broadcast a significant number of games, including marquee matchups like Thursday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, and Monday Night Football.
- NFL Network: The league’s own channel features exclusive games, in-depth analysis, and highlights.
- Amazon Prime Video: This streaming giant secured exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football, adding another layer to the viewing puzzle.
- NFL Sunday Ticket: This premium subscription service, now available on YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels, allows you to watch every out-of-market Sunday afternoon game live.
- NFL+: This subscription service offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices, game replays, condensed games, and coaches film.
With such a fragmented landscape, the quest to get all NFL games becomes a strategic endeavor. Let’s explore the best ways to achieve football nirvana.
The Holy Grail: Getting Every Single NFL Game
To truly conquer the NFL viewing challenge and ensure you have access to every single game, you’ll need a multi-pronged approach. Here’s the ultimate combination:
-
YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket: This powerful duo gives you the most comprehensive coverage, including all out-of-market games, live local and primetime games, and a wide array of other channels.
-
Amazon Prime Video: Essential for Thursday Night Football games, which are exclusively aired on this platform.
-
Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna: This old-school but effective method provides free access to local channels broadcasting NFL games in your area.
-
NFL+: This mobile-centric service complements your viewing options by providing live local and primetime games on your phone or tablet, along with game replays and other exclusive content.
By combining these four options, you’ll be equipped to watch every NFL game, regardless of your location or preferred viewing platform.
Breaking Down the Options: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Let’s dissect each option in detail, exploring its pros, cons, and associated costs to help you make an informed decision.
1. YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket
-
Pros:
- Most comprehensive coverage of all NFL games, including out-of-market matchups.
- Access to a wide range of other channels and on-demand content.
- Unlimited DVR storage.
- User-friendly interface and multi-device streaming.
-
Cons:
- Relatively high cost, especially with the NFL Sunday Ticket add-on.
- Requires a stable internet connection.
-
Cost:
- YouTube TV: Starts at $72.99/month
- NFL Sunday Ticket: Starts at $349/season for YouTube TV subscribers, $449/season for non-subscribers.
2. Amazon Prime Video
-
Pros:
- Exclusive access to Thursday Night Football games.
- Included with an Amazon Prime membership, which offers other benefits like free shipping and access to Prime Video’s library of movies and TV shows.
-
Cons:
- Limited to Thursday Night Football games only.
- Requires an Amazon Prime membership.
-
Cost:
- Amazon Prime membership: $14.99/month or $139/year.
3. Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna
-
Pros:
- Free access to local channels broadcasting NFL games in your area.
- No monthly subscription fees.
-
Cons:
- Limited to in-market games.
- Dependent on signal strength and reception quality.
- Requires purchasing an antenna.
-
Cost:
- OTA antenna: $20-$100 depending on the type and range.
4. NFL+
-
Pros:
- Affordable subscription offering live local and primetime games on mobile devices.
- Access to game replays, condensed games, and coaches film.
- Available on various devices.
-
Cons:
- Limited to mobile viewing for live games.
- Doesn’t include all out-of-market games.
-
Cost:
- NFL+: $6.99/month or $49.99/year
- NFL+ Premium: $14.99/month or $99.99/year (includes NFL RedZone)
Choosing the Right Combination for You
The ideal combination of services will depend on your priorities and budget. Here are some scenarios and recommended solutions:
-
Die-hard fan who wants to watch every game, regardless of location:
- YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket + Amazon Prime Video + OTA Antenna + NFL+
-
Budget-conscious fan who primarily watches local games:
- OTA Antenna + NFL+
-
Fan who wants a mix of live games and on-demand content:
- Streaming service (Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, or fuboTV) + OTA Antenna + NFL+
-
Fan who’s always on the go:
- NFL+ Premium (includes RedZone)
Remember, these are just suggestions, and you can customize your approach based on your specific needs and preferences.
Additional Tips for Finding and Watching NFL Games
- Check Local Listings: Always check your local listings to see which games are being broadcast in your area for free.
- Use a VPN: If you’re traveling or want to access out-of-market games without NFL Sunday Ticket, a VPN can help you bypass geographic restrictions.
- Consider a Sports Bar: If you don’t have access to the game at home, head to a sports bar or restaurant with multiple screens and a lively atmosphere.
- Follow Your Team on Social Media: Many teams offer exclusive content and highlights on their social media channels.
- Engage with Other Fans: Join online forums or communities to discuss the games and connect with fellow fans.
Conclusion: Game On!
The quest to get all NFL games might seem challenging, but with a bit of research and planning, it’s entirely achievable. By understanding the broadcasting landscape, weighing your options, and utilizing the right combination of services, you can ensure that you never miss a touchdown, interception, or thrilling victory. So gear up, grab your snacks, and get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement of the NFL season!