The National Football League (NFL) is one of the most popular sports leagues in the United States, with millions of fans eagerly awaiting each game day. With the rise of streaming services, it’s now easier than ever to catch live NFL games from the comfort of your own home. One popular streaming option is YouTube TV, but can you watch live NFL games on this platform? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide you with all the information you need to know.
What is YouTube TV?
Before we dive into the world of live NFL games on YouTube TV, let’s take a brief look at what this streaming service has to offer. YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that provides access to a wide range of TV channels, including sports, news, and entertainment. With YouTube TV, you can watch live TV on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. The service offers a variety of features, including:
- Live TV streaming: Watch live TV channels, including sports, news, and entertainment.
- Cloud DVR: Record your favorite shows and sports games to watch later.
- Multi-device support: Watch live TV on multiple devices at the same time.
- No contracts: Cancel your subscription at any time.
Can You Watch Live NFL Games on YouTube TV?
Now, let’s get to the question on everyone’s mind: can you watch live NFL games on YouTube TV? The answer is yes, but with some limitations. YouTube TV offers live streaming of NFL games, but the availability of these games depends on your location and the channels included in your subscription.
YouTube TV offers a range of channels that broadcast NFL games, including:
- NBC: Sunday Night Football
- CBS: Sunday afternoon games
- FOX: Sunday afternoon games
- ESPN: Monday Night Football
- NFL Network: Thursday Night Football and other NFL programming
However, the availability of these channels and the NFL games they broadcast may vary depending on your location. Some channels may not be available in all areas, and some games may be blacked out due to local broadcast restrictions.
NFL Blackout Restrictions
One thing to keep in mind when watching live NFL games on YouTube TV is blackout restrictions. The NFL has a policy of blacking out games in certain areas to protect the interests of local broadcasters. This means that if a game is being broadcast locally, it may not be available on YouTube TV in that area.
For example, if you live in New York and the Giants are playing a home game, the game may be blacked out on YouTube TV in the New York area. However, if you live outside of the New York area, you may be able to watch the game on YouTube TV.
How to Watch Live NFL Games on YouTube TV
If you’re eager to watch live NFL games on YouTube TV, here’s how to do it:
- Sign up for YouTube TV: If you haven’t already, sign up for a YouTube TV subscription. You can choose from a range of plans, including a base plan that starts at $64.99 per month.
- Check the channel lineup: Make sure that the channels that broadcast NFL games are included in your subscription. You can check the channel lineup on the YouTube TV website.
- Check the schedule: Check the NFL schedule to see when and where games are being broadcast. You can find the schedule on the NFL website or on the YouTube TV website.
- Watch the game: On game day, tune in to the channel that’s broadcasting the game. You can watch live on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or smart TV.
YouTube TV Add-ons for NFL Fans
If you’re a die-hard NFL fan, you may want to consider adding some extra channels to your YouTube TV subscription. Here are a few add-ons that may be of interest:
- NFL RedZone: This channel provides live coverage of every touchdown scored in the NFL. You can add NFL RedZone to your YouTube TV subscription for an extra $11 per month.
- NFL Sunday Ticket: This channel provides live coverage of every NFL game, including out-of-market games. You can add NFL Sunday Ticket to your YouTube TV subscription for an extra $293.96 per season.
Alternatives to YouTube TV for Live NFL Games
If you’re not satisfied with the NFL coverage on YouTube TV, there are several alternative streaming services that you can consider. Here are a few options:
- Hulu with Live TV: This streaming service offers a range of channels that broadcast NFL games, including NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN.
- Sling TV: This streaming service offers a range of channels that broadcast NFL games, including NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN.
- FuboTV: This streaming service offers a range of channels that broadcast NFL games, including NBC, CBS, FOX, and NFL Network.
- Amazon Prime Video: This streaming service offers live coverage of Thursday Night Football games.
Comparison of Streaming Services for Live NFL Games
Here’s a comparison of the streaming services mentioned above:
| Streaming Service | Channels | Price |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN, NFL Network | $64.99 per month |
| Hulu with Live TV | NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN | $64.99 per month |
| Sling TV | NBC, CBS, FOX, ESPN | $30 per month |
| FuboTV | NBC, CBS, FOX, NFL Network | $64.99 per month |
| Amazon Prime Video | Thursday Night Football | $8.99 per month |
Conclusion
In conclusion, YouTube TV is a great option for watching live NFL games, but it’s not the only option. With a range of channels that broadcast NFL games, including NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN, YouTube TV provides a comprehensive viewing experience. However, blackout restrictions and limited channel availability may affect the games you can watch. If you’re not satisfied with YouTube TV, there are several alternative streaming services that you can consider. Ultimately, the best streaming service for live NFL games will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Can I watch live NFL games on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV offers live NFL games through various channels, including NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN. However, the availability of these channels and the specific games they broadcast may vary depending on your location. You can check the YouTube TV website to see which channels are available in your area and which games will be broadcast live.
Additionally, YouTube TV also offers the NFL Network, which provides exclusive coverage of the NFL, including live games, analysis, and news. However, the NFL Network is not available in all areas, so you’ll need to check the YouTube TV website to see if it’s available in your location.
How much does it cost to watch live NFL games on YouTube TV?
The cost of watching live NFL games on YouTube TV varies depending on the package you choose. The base package, which includes NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN, starts at $64.99 per month. However, if you want to add the NFL Network, you’ll need to upgrade to the “Sports Plus” add-on, which costs an additional $10.99 per month.
It’s worth noting that YouTube TV also offers a free trial period, which allows you to test the service and watch live NFL games for a limited time without committing to a paid subscription. Additionally, YouTube TV often offers promotions and discounts for new subscribers, so it’s worth checking the website for any available deals.
Can I watch live NFL games on YouTube TV on multiple devices?
Yes, YouTube TV allows you to watch live NFL games on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku and Chromecast. You can also watch on multiple devices at the same time, making it easy to share the experience with family and friends.
However, the number of devices you can watch on simultaneously may be limited depending on your internet connection and the quality of the stream. YouTube TV recommends a minimum internet speed of 13 Mbps for HD streaming and 25 Mbps for 4K streaming.
Can I record live NFL games on YouTube TV?
Yes, YouTube TV allows you to record live NFL games using its cloud DVR feature. This feature allows you to record live TV and store it in the cloud for up to 9 months. You can record multiple games at the same time and watch them later on any device.
The cloud DVR feature is included with the base package, and you can record up to 100 hours of content. However, if you need more storage space, you can upgrade to the “Enhanced Cloud DVR” add-on, which provides an additional 100 hours of storage space.
Can I watch live NFL games on YouTube TV outside of the US?
YouTube TV is only available in the United States, so you won’t be able to watch live NFL games on the service if you’re outside of the country. However, there are some workarounds, such as using a VPN (virtual private network) to mask your IP address and make it appear as though you’re accessing the service from within the US.
However, using a VPN to access YouTube TV outside of the US may be against the service’s terms of use, and it’s not guaranteed to work. Additionally, the quality of the stream may be affected by the VPN, so it’s not the most reliable option.
Can I watch live NFL games on YouTube TV in 4K?
Yes, YouTube TV offers live NFL games in 4K resolution on select devices, including smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku and Chromecast. However, the availability of 4K streaming may vary depending on the specific game and the channel broadcasting it.
To watch live NFL games in 4K on YouTube TV, you’ll need a compatible device and a fast internet connection. YouTube TV recommends a minimum internet speed of 25 Mbps for 4K streaming.
Can I cancel my YouTube TV subscription at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your YouTube TV subscription at any time. The service is month-to-month, so you’re not locked into a long-term contract. You can cancel your subscription online or through the YouTube TV app on your device.
If you cancel your subscription, you’ll still be able to access the service until the end of your billing cycle. After that, your subscription will be terminated, and you won’t be charged again.