Can You Watch All NFL Games On YouTube TV?
Unfortunately, the answer is a nuanced no, but with some caveats. While YouTube TV offers a comprehensive package covering many NFL games, you can’t watch every single game without additional subscriptions or strategies.
Understanding NFL Game Broadcasting
The National Football League (NFL) distributes its games across various broadcast networks and streaming platforms. This includes major networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN, as well as the NFL Network and streaming services like Amazon Prime Video. The distribution model means no single service provides access to every single game. Understanding this foundational principle is crucial for managing your NFL viewing expectations.
YouTube TV’s Base Package and NFL Coverage
YouTube TV offers a robust base package that includes many of the major networks broadcasting NFL games. This means you’ll typically have access to games aired on:
- CBS
- FOX
- NBC
- ESPN
This coverage catches a significant portion of regular season games, including many Sunday afternoon games, Sunday Night Football (on NBC), and Monday Night Football (on ESPN). Local affiliates are also included, ensuring you get games broadcast in your area.
The Limitations: Games You Might Miss
While YouTube TV provides substantial coverage, it doesn’t include everything. Specifically, here’s where you might encounter limitations:
- NFL Network Exclusives: Games exclusively broadcast on NFL Network are not included in the base YouTube TV package. These are typically Thursday Night Football games later in the season.
- Amazon Prime Video Thursday Night Football: Since 2022, Amazon Prime Video has the exclusive rights to most Thursday Night Football games. These games are also not included in the standard YouTube TV package.
- International Games: Occasionally, some games are played internationally and broadcast on specific networks or streaming services outside of the usual lineup.
Solutions: Filling the Gaps
To watch all NFL games, you’ll likely need supplementary subscriptions or strategies:
- NFL+ Premium: This subscription offers live out-of-market preseason games, live local and primetime regular season and postseason games on mobile devices, and game replays. It does not include live broadcasts on your TV.
- Amazon Prime Video: A Prime membership is necessary to stream Thursday Night Football.
- NFL Network Subscription (Through Another Provider): While not directly available on YouTube TV, you could subscribe to the NFL Network through another provider (e.g., cable or satellite) and use their associated app to stream games.
- Rely on Friends/Family: See if friends or family have subscriptions you can leverage responsibly.
YouTube TV NFL Sunday Ticket
YouTube TV now offers NFL Sunday Ticket, which allows you to watch out-of-market Sunday afternoon games. This addresses a major previous limitation. However, it’s an additional subscription cost on top of your base YouTube TV subscription.
Cost Considerations
The cost of subscribing to multiple services can add up quickly. Evaluate your viewing habits and budget to determine the most cost-effective way to watch the games you care about.
| Service | Cost (Approximate) | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | $73/month | CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Local Affiliates (Significant regular season coverage) |
| NFL+ Premium | $15/month | Mobile access to local/primetime, game replays, out-of-market preseason |
| Amazon Prime | $15/month | Thursday Night Football |
| NFL Sunday Ticket | (Varies) | Out-of-market Sunday afternoon games |
Common Mistakes
- Assuming YouTube TV has everything: Don’t assume the base package covers every single game.
- Forgetting about regional blackouts: Local blackouts can still occur, even with YouTube TV.
- Not considering NFL Sunday Ticket: If you want out-of-market Sunday afternoon games, this is your primary option.
- Waiting until the last minute to subscribe: Ensure your subscriptions are active before the season starts.
Maximizing Your NFL Viewing Experience on YouTube TV
To get the most out of watching NFL games on YouTube TV:
- Customize your guide: Prioritize your favorite teams and channels.
- Set recordings: Don’t miss a game by setting it to record.
- Use the sports add-on: This can provide additional sports content, though it doesn’t necessarily guarantee more live NFL games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does YouTube TV include NFL Network?
No, the standard YouTube TV base package does not include NFL Network. You’ll need to explore alternative options, such as subscribing through another provider or using NFL+.
Can I watch Thursday Night Football on YouTube TV?
Previously some Thursday Night Football games were available on FOX via YouTube TV. However, most Thursday Night Football games are now exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, which requires a separate subscription.
Does YouTube TV have NFL RedZone?
Yes, YouTube TV offers NFL RedZone as part of its Sports Plus add-on package. This add-on costs extra but provides access to NFL RedZone and other sports channels.
Is NFL Sunday Ticket included in the YouTube TV base package?
No, NFL Sunday Ticket is a separate subscription you must purchase in addition to your regular YouTube TV subscription.
How can I watch out-of-market NFL games on YouTube TV?
The primary way to watch out-of-market NFL games on YouTube TV is by subscribing to NFL Sunday Ticket. This provides access to all out-of-market Sunday afternoon games.
Are local NFL games always available on YouTube TV?
Typically, yes, local NFL games broadcast on CBS and FOX affiliates are available on YouTube TV, provided there are no regional blackouts due to stadium non-attendance, which is now rare.
What happens if a game is blacked out on YouTube TV?
Blackouts are uncommon these days, but if a game is blacked out, you won’t be able to watch it on YouTube TV in the affected area.
Does YouTube TV offer a free trial of NFL Sunday Ticket?
The availability of free trials for NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV can vary. Check the YouTube TV website for current promotions.
Can I watch NFL games on YouTube TV while traveling?
Yes, you can watch YouTube TV while traveling within the United States. However, your local channels may change based on your location.
How many devices can stream YouTube TV simultaneously?
YouTube TV allows three simultaneous streams per account. This means you can watch on three different devices at the same time.
Is YouTube TV a good option for NFL fans?
YouTube TV is generally a good option for NFL fans, providing access to a significant portion of games. However, those seeking comprehensive coverage need to supplement it with other subscriptions or strategies.
Where can I find the NFL schedule to plan my viewing?
The official NFL website (NFL.com) and numerous sports websites (e.g., ESPN.com) provide detailed NFL schedules. Use these to identify which networks and services are broadcasting specific games.