Yes, you can watch Thursday Night Football on DirecTV. The primary way to catch Thursday Night Football on DirecTV is through NFL Network, which is included in most DirecTV subscription packages.
For many football fans, Thursday nights are sacred. They mark the unofficial start of the weekend, bringing with them the excitement of a live NFL game. If you’re a DirecTV subscriber, you’ve likely wondered: “Can I watch Thursday Night Football on DirecTV?” The answer is a resounding yes, but the specifics of how and where can sometimes be a little complex. This guide will break down everything you need to know to ensure you don’t miss a single touchdown, field goal, or crucial defensive stop.
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The Home of Thursday Night Football: NFL Network and More
Historically, NFL Network has been the bedrock for Thursday Night Football broadcasts. Many of the games were exclusively aired on this channel, making it a must-have for serious NFL fans. DirecTV has long been a partner with the NFL, offering robust packages that include the NFL Network.
Accessing NFL Network on DirecTV
DirecTV offers various subscription packages, and the good news is that the NFL Network is generally included in most of their popular tiers. This means that if you have a standard DirecTV service, you’re likely already set up to watch Thursday Night Football. The NFL Network is typically found on channel 622 for DirecTV customers.
It’s always a good idea to check your specific DirecTV subscription packages to confirm that NFL Network is indeed included. You can usually do this by logging into your DirecTV account online or by contacting their customer service.
The Evolving Broadcast Landscape
While NFL Network remains a key player, it’s important to note that Thursday Night Football broadcasting rights have evolved. In recent years, Amazon Prime Video has become the primary home for Thursday Night Football. This means that while NFL Network still airs some Thursday night games, not all of them will be exclusively on the NFL Network.
This shift primarily affects subscribers who rely solely on traditional cable or satellite TV providers. However, DirecTV subscribers still have avenues to access these games.
Navigating DirecTV Sunday Ticket and Beyond
For those who are serious about their NFL viewing, DirecTV Sunday Ticket (now known as DirecTV Sunday Ticket from Google) is the ultimate package. While DirecTV Sunday Ticket is primarily focused on Sunday afternoon games, it’s worth understanding its relationship with Thursday night contests and how it fits into the broader DirecTV sports offering.
DirecTV Sunday Ticket: What It Covers
DirecTV Sunday Ticket is renowned for providing access to all out-of-market games, meaning you can watch any NFL game not broadcast in your local market on Sundays. This is a massive advantage for fans who want to follow their favorite team regardless of location.
While DirecTV Sunday Ticket doesn’t directly include all Thursday Night Football games, the fact that you’re subscribed to DirecTV Sunday Ticket often means you have access to the base channels that do carry these games, such as the NFL Network.
Local Channels and Thursday Night Football
The broadcast of Thursday Night Football can also depend on your local channels. Sometimes, specific Thursday night games might be simulcast on a major broadcast network that is available on your local channels. For example, a game might air on CBS or FOX in addition to the NFL Network or Amazon Prime Video.
If a game is broadcast on a local channel like CBS or FOX, and you have DirecTV, you can watch it by tuning into the corresponding local channel provided by DirecTV. DirecTV offers local channels in most markets, which is crucial for accessing national broadcast content.
Streaming Options for Thursday Night Football on DirecTV
With the rise of streaming, DirecTV has also adapted. If you’re looking for flexible streaming options for Thursday Night Football, here’s what you need to know:
DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream is DirecTV’s standalone streaming service, which offers a package of live TV channels that you can watch on various devices without a satellite dish. Many of the DirecTV Stream subscription packages include the NFL Network and other sports channels. This can be a great way to watch Thursday Night Football if you prefer streaming over traditional satellite TV.
Amazon Prime Video and Other Streaming Services
As mentioned, Amazon Prime Video is now the primary broadcaster for Thursday Night Football. If you want to watch all of these games, a subscription to Amazon Prime is necessary.
However, for DirecTV subscribers who have the NFL Network, you can still catch many of the games that are simulcast there. Additionally, some games might be available through other sports streaming services that partner with the NFL or carry the specific broadcast networks airing the games.
Specialized Channels: RedZone Channel and More
When it comes to NFL football, fans often seek out specialized channels that offer a comprehensive viewing experience.
The RedZone Channel
The Red Zone Channel (often referred to as the red zone channel) is a popular choice for fantasy football players and fans who want to stay on top of all the action across the league. The Red Zone Channel typically airs live whip-around coverage of every touchdown from around the league on Sundays.
While the Red Zone Channel focuses on Sundays, it’s an important part of the overall DirecTV NFL offering. It’s usually bundled with DirecTV Sunday Ticket or available as an add-on to certain subscription packages. It does not typically broadcast Thursday Night Football live in its entirety, but it keeps you informed if a Thursday Night Football game has significant scoring plays.
Out-of-Market Games
A key benefit of DirecTV Sunday Ticket is its ability to provide out-of-market games. This is incredibly valuable for fans whose local affiliates might not carry their favorite team’s games. While Thursday Night Football is a national broadcast, the concept of out-of-market games is still relevant to how you access the NFL through DirecTV. If your preferred Thursday night game isn’t on the NFL Network or your local channel, you might need to explore other options.
What to Consider When Choosing a DirecTV Package
To ensure you have the best Thursday Night Football viewing experience on DirecTV, consider these factors when selecting or reviewing your subscription packages:
Key Features to Look For:
- NFL Network Inclusion: This is the most crucial element for catching the games broadcast on NFL Network.
- Local Channel Access: Ensure your package includes your local channels for games simulcast on broadcast networks.
- Sports Add-Ons: Some packages might require sports add-ons to access premium sports channels.
- Streaming Capabilities: If you prefer streaming, look into DirecTV Stream or other digital offerings.
Sample DirecTV Package Features (Illustrative)
Here’s a hypothetical look at how different DirecTV packages might cater to NFL fans:
| Package Name | NFL Network | Local Channels | DirecTV Sunday Ticket (Add-on) | Thursday Night Football Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | Yes | Yes | No | Games on NFL Network and local channels. |
| Choice | Yes | Yes | Yes | All Sunday games, plus games on NFL Network and local channels. |
| Ultimate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Comprehensive NFL access, including games on NFL Network and local channels. |
| Premier | Yes | Yes | Yes | Full sports suite, ensuring access to most NFL broadcasts. |
Note: This is an illustrative table. Specific package inclusions can vary and are subject to change by DirecTV.
How to Watch Thursday Night Football on DirecTV: A Step-by-Step Approach
Here’s a clear path to how to watch Thursday Night Football on DirecTV:
- Verify Your Subscription: First, confirm that your DirecTV subscription packages include the NFL Network. You can check this via your online account or by calling customer service.
- Identify the Game: Determine which channel the specific Thursday Night Football game is being broadcast on. This information is widely available on sports news websites, the NFL’s official site, and your DirecTV guide.
- Tune In:
- If the game is on NFL Network, tune to channel 622.
- If the game is on a local channel (like CBS or FOX), tune to that channel number as provided by DirecTV for your area.
- If the game is exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, you will need a separate Amazon Prime subscription and may need to use a streaming device or app compatible with your TV.
- Utilize DirecTV Stream: If you prefer streaming, consider subscribing to DirecTV Stream, ensuring the package you choose includes the NFL Network.
- Explore Add-Ons: If your current package doesn’t include the NFL Network, inquire about sports add-ons or upgrading your subscription packages.
Common Questions About Thursday Night Football and DirecTV
Can I watch every Thursday Night Football game on DirecTV?
You can watch most Thursday Night Football games on DirecTV, especially those broadcast on the NFL Network and simulcast on local channels. However, games exclusively on Amazon Prime Video will require a separate Amazon Prime subscription.
Is the NFL Network included in all DirecTV packages?
No, the NFL Network is not included in all DirecTV subscription packages. It is generally available in mid-tier and higher packages. It is essential to check your specific plan.
What channel is the NFL Network on DirecTV?
The NFL Network is typically found on channel 622 for DirecTV subscribers.
Does DirecTV Sunday Ticket include Thursday Night Football?
DirecTV Sunday Ticket focuses on Sunday games. While your DirecTV Sunday Ticket subscription likely grants you access to the NFL Network and local channels where some Thursday games are aired, it does not directly include all Thursday Night Football broadcasts, especially those exclusive to other platforms like Amazon Prime Video.
How can I watch out-of-market NFL games on DirecTV?
Out-of-market games are primarily covered by DirecTV Sunday Ticket. This service allows you to watch any NFL game that is not broadcast in your local market on Sundays.
What if a Thursday Night Football game is only on Amazon Prime Video?
If a Thursday Night Football game is exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, you will need an Amazon Prime subscription to watch it. You can often access Amazon Prime Video through smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV), or computers. DirecTV itself does not provide direct access to Amazon Prime Video exclusive content.
Can I get the Red Zone Channel with DirecTV?
Yes, the Red Zone Channel is typically available as an add-on or is included in higher-tier packages, often bundled with DirecTV Sunday Ticket.
By following this comprehensive guide, DirecTV subscribers can confidently navigate the world of Thursday Night Football and ensure they have the best possible viewing experience. Whether it’s through the NFL Network, local channels, or understanding the nuances of DirecTV Sunday Ticket, you’re well-equipped to enjoy every exciting moment of Thursday night NFL action.