When it comes to watching NFL games, fans are constantly searching for the best ways to catch their favorite teams live and in action. One of the most popular options today is YouTube TV. With its vast array of channels and user-friendly interface, YouTube TV has become a go-to for sports enthusiasts. But what NFL games does YouTube TV carry? In this extensive guide, we’ll delve into the NFL games available on YouTube TV, how you can access them, and what makes it a great choice for football fans.
Understanding YouTube TV’s Channel Offerings
YouTube TV stands out in the crowded field of streaming services thanks to its robust channel lineup, which includes major networks that broadcast NFL games. The main channels where you can find NFL games on YouTube TV include:
- FOX
- CBS
- NBC
- ESPN
- NFL Network
Popular NFL Games on YouTube TV
Now, let’s discuss which specific NFL games you can catch on YouTube TV throughout the season. One thing to note is that game availability may vary depending on your geographic location, as local channels may change based on your area.
Regular Sunday Games
The majority of NFL games are played on Sundays, and you can catch these on:
- CBS: Broadcasts many AFC games.
- FOX: Primarily broadcasts NFC games.
Each Sunday, expect to watch a variety of games featuring your favorite teams, but which games can you watch live each week?
Monday Night Football
Every week, NFL fans look forward to Monday Night Football, which is aired on ESPN. Currently, this iconic sporting event is also available through YouTube TV. When your favorite teams go head-to-head on a Monday night, you won’t miss a moment of the action.
Thursday Night Football
Starting from 2022, Amazon Prime Video became the exclusive home for Thursday Night Football; However, local matchups are sometimes also available on FOX and NFL Network, which you can watch on YouTube TV. This ensures that even those crucial early-season divisional matchups don’t go unseen.
The NFL Playoffs and Super Bowl
The postseason is where dreams are made and broken, and YouTube TV makes sure fans don’t miss any significant moments. Here’s how it works:
- Wild Card Weekend: Games are split between CBS, FOX, and NBC.
- Divisional Round: Broadcasted on CBS and FOX.
- Conference Championships: Available on CBS and FOX.
- Super Bowl: The biggest event of the year is usually aired on NBC; this is your chance to catch the championship battle live.
Accessing NFL RedZone on YouTube TV
Another perk of having YouTube TV is the option to add NFL RedZone. This popular channel keeps viewers in the loop with live coverage of all games on Sunday afternoons, showcasing every touchdown and key play as they happen.
In addition to traditional broadcasting of games, NFL RedZone is a fantastic option for die-hard fans who want to experience the thrill of multiple games simultaneously. It is accessible as an additional subscription, making YouTube TV an even more appealing choice.
Benefits of Watching NFL Games on YouTube TV
While it’s important to know what NFL games are available, it’s equally crucial to understand why YouTube TV is a fantastic platform for watching football. Let’s list out some of the benefits:
- Cloud DVR Storage: YouTube TV offers unlimited cloud DVR storage for content, allowing you to record and watch the games at your convenience.
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform’s design makes it easy to navigate through channels, search for specific games, and set up recordings.
Easy Accessibility Across Devices
One of YouTube TV’s major advantages is the ability to watch games across multiple devices. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can stream your favorite NFL games on:
- Smart TVs
- Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV
- Mobile devices (iOS and Android)
- Computers
This versatility ensures that you can keep up with your favorite teams no matter where you are.
Pricing and Subscription Plans
Addressing the economical side of the service, it’s essential to talk about YouTube TV’s subscription model. As of 2023, YouTube TV offers a standard monthly subscription. While pricing can change, it typically includes access to a diverse selection of channels, including those airing NFL games.
For additional channels, including NFL RedZone, You can pay a nominal fee per month to upgrade your package.
Competitiveness of YouTube TV Pricing
When comparing YouTube TV’s pricing and features with similar live TV streaming platforms, it often offers competitive pricing for the number of channels you get, along with unlimited DVR. Here’s a quick comparison of what different services often offer:
| Service | Monthly Cost | NFL Channels Included |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | Approximately $72.99 | FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network |
| Sling TV | Starting at approximately $40 | ESPN, NFL RedZone (with add-on) |
| Hulu + Live TV | Approximately $70.99 | FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN |
This comparison illustrates that while some services offer lower pricing, they often lack comprehensive NFL coverage or upcharge for needed add-ons.
Conclusion: Is YouTube TV Right for You?
With a fantastic channel lineup, unlimited DVR, and the ability to watch NFL games on multiple devices, YouTube TV proves itself to be an excellent choice for football fans. Whether you are looking to watch your favorite team’s journey through the season or catch the playoff drama leading to the Super Bowl, YouTube TV has got you covered.
While it might not be the cheapest option available, the benefits offered often make the investment worthwhile, especially if you’re serious about your weekend football. So, if you’re considering YouTube TV, now might be the perfect time to make the switch and dive into the exciting world of NFL streaming!
What NFL games can I watch on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV offers a selection of NFL games, including regular-season games, playoffs, and the Super Bowl. Subscribers can access local broadcast rights, which typically include games that are aired on CBS, NBC, and FOX. For fans who want to catch as many games as possible, YouTube TV also provides access to ESPN, where you can watch Monday Night Football and other marquee matchups.
In addition to these games, YouTube TV often includes NFL Network, allowing viewers to access exclusive content, highlights, and some live games. However, it’s essential to check the specific channels that are available in your location, as local broadcasting rights can affect the games you can watch on the platform.
Do I need to subscribe to multiple services to watch NFL games?
No, you typically do not need to subscribe to multiple services solely to watch NFL games if you have a YouTube TV subscription. With YouTube TV, you get a comprehensive package that includes major networks known for broadcasting NFL games, such as CBS, NBC, and FOX, along with ESPN and NFL Network. This setup allows you to watch a broad range of games and other NFL-related content from one service.
However, to access NFL RedZone, which offers coverage of every touchdown from games on Sundays, you may need to add that service as an additional channel option. This is particularly popular among fans who want to catch all the action without flipping between multiple channels during the game.
Is YouTube TV available in all areas for NFL viewing?
YouTube TV is available in most areas across the United States, but the availability of local channels can vary by region. To ensure you don’t miss any games, it’s advisable to enter your zip code on the YouTube TV website to check which channels are accessible in your area. This will help you identify whether you can watch the NFL games that are broadcast in your locality.
Additionally, if you live in a market that only receives limited local channels, you might miss out on certain games. However, YouTube TV’s package often does include both national and regional broadcasts, which helps provide a broader selection of NFL games throughout the season.
Can I watch NFL playoff games on YouTube TV?
Yes, subscribers to YouTube TV can watch NFL playoff games. The platform provides access to major networks that broadcast playoff games, including CBS, NBC, and FOX. As the playoffs generally feature higher-stakes games, the ability to watch these matchups on YouTube TV is a significant advantage for fans looking to follow their teams through the postseason.
Moreover, the Super Bowl is also available for viewing on YouTube TV, depending on which channel is hosting the game that year. This coverage ensures that fans can enjoy the pinnacle of the NFL season without needing an additional subscription or service.
How does YouTube TV handle blackouts for NFL games?
YouTube TV complies with NFL blackout rules, which can affect the availability of certain local games. If a game is being broadcast on a local network and you live in the local market, you should be able to watch it on YouTube TV. However, if the game is sold out or not available for viewing locally, you might not have access to it, depending on the blackout policies in place.
To navigate blackouts, it’s crucial to stay informed about your local team’s broadcasting schedule and any potential restrictions. YouTube TV users may also choose to utilize a VPN for accessing content, but this often violates the service’s terms and conditions, so it’s recommended to check before doing so.
Can I record NFL games on YouTube TV?
Yes, YouTube TV allows subscribers to record NFL games. The service includes an unlimited cloud DVR feature, which means you can record as many games as you want without worrying about storage limits. This feature is particularly useful for NFL fans who may not always be able to watch live games and want to catch up later.
Additionally, recorded games are typically available to watch for up to nine months, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the exciting moments of the season. This recording capability makes YouTube TV an attractive option for NFL enthusiasts who want the flexibility to watch games on their schedule.
Do I need a specific internet speed for YouTube TV to watch NFL games?
While YouTube TV does not have a strict internet speed requirement, it is recommended to have at least 25 Mbps for a smooth streaming experience. This speed ensures high-quality video streaming and minimizes buffering, which is particularly important during live events like NFL games. For optimal performance, especially if multiple devices are connected to the same network, a higher speed might be beneficial.
If your internet speed is on the lower end, you may experience interruptions or degraded video quality. To avoid this, consider running a speed test to determine your current internet speed and make any necessary adjustments to your plan or setup before the NFL season kicks off.