Yes, you can watch NFL football on Sling TV. Sling TV offers access to many of the channels that broadcast NFL games, making it a viable option for football fans. To watch NFL games Sling TV, you’ll need to choose the right Sling TV package and potentially add specific channel extras. This guide will break down exactly how to get your NFL fix through Sling TV, covering all the essential channels and how to make sure you don’t miss a single Sling TV NFL matchup.
The National Football League (NFL) is a massive cultural phenomenon, and for many, keeping up with their favorite teams is a weekly ritual. With the rise of streaming services, cord-cutters and cord-shavers are always looking for the best ways to access live sports without a traditional cable subscription. Sling TV has emerged as a popular choice for its flexibility and affordability, but can it deliver the full NFL experience? The short answer is yes, with a bit of careful planning.
This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know to watch NFL Sling TV, ensuring you can catch all the action, from the pre-season hype to the Super Bowl itself. We’ll explore which Sling TV packages are best for football fans, which indispensable channels are included, and how to supplement your viewing if your preferred games aren’t on those channels.
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Decoding Sling TV Packages for NFL Viewers
Sling TV offers a tiered subscription model, which means you need to be strategic about which package you select to catch the most NFL games Sling TV. Unlike some other streaming services that offer a single, all-encompassing sports package, Sling TV breaks down its offerings into two main base packages: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, with the option to combine them into Sling Orange + Blue.
Sling Orange
Sling Orange is generally geared more towards sports and family-friendly entertainment. It includes channels like:
- ESPN: Crucial for a significant portion of NFL content, including Monday Night Football and various ESPN shows discussing the league.
- ESPN2: Offers additional sports coverage.
- NFL Network: This is a key channel for Sling TV NFL. It provides exclusive content, analysis, classic games, and some live preseason games and international games.
- Other channels: Includes CNN, Cartoon Network, Disney Channel, and more.
Sling Blue
Sling Blue is designed for a broader audience, focusing on news and entertainment, but it also has significant value for NFL fans. It includes channels like:
- Fox NFL Sling TV: This is essential for a large number of Sunday afternoon games.
- CBS NFL Sling TV: Also vital for Sunday afternoon games, particularly those broadcast on CBS.
- NBC: This channel airs Sunday Night Football, one of the marquee NFL matchups of the week.
- Local Channels: Sling Blue often includes local affiliates of Fox, NBC, and sometimes ABC, depending on your location. This is a critical point for accessing games broadcast regionally.
- Other channels: Includes HGTV, TLC, Discovery Channel, FX, and more.
Sling Orange + Blue
For the most comprehensive NFL viewing experience on Sling TV, combining both Sling Orange and Sling Blue is often the best approach. This package gives you access to all the channels mentioned above, significantly increasing your chances of catching any given NFL games Sling TV.
Table 1: Sling TV Base Packages and NFL Channel Availability
| Sling TV Package | ESPN | NFL Network | Fox | CBS | NBC | Sunday Night Football | Monday Night Football | Typical Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sling Orange | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | $40/month |
| Sling Blue | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | $45/month |
| Sling Orange + Blue | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | $60/month |
Note: Pricing and channel lineups are subject to change by Sling TV. Always check Sling TV’s official website for the most up-to-date information.
Essential Channels for Watching NFL Football on Sling TV
To truly watch NFL Sling TV without missing key games, you need to have access to the primary broadcast networks and specialized sports channels. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have channels for any serious NFL fan on Sling TV:
NFL Network Sling TV
The NFL Network is a goldmine for football enthusiasts. It offers 24/7 coverage of the NFL, including:
- Exclusive content: Behind-the-scenes access, player profiles, and in-depth analysis.
- Preseason games: Many preseason games are broadcast exclusively on NFL Network.
- International games: Some NFL games played internationally are aired on NFL Network.
- Analysis shows: “Good Morning Football,” “NFL GameDay,” and more.
Having NFL Network Sling TV is a significant advantage for any fan looking to stay fully immersed in the NFL world. This channel is included in the Sling Orange package.
ESPN Sling TV
ESPN is another powerhouse for NFL content. While it doesn’t broadcast regular-season NFL games in the same way as CBS, Fox, or NBC, it’s vital for:
- Monday Night Football: All Monday Night Football games are broadcast on ESPN.
- ESPN NFL Shows: Programs like “NFL Live” provide extensive analysis, news, and commentary throughout the week.
- College Football: For those who enjoy the pipeline from college to the pros, ESPN is your go-to.
Therefore, securing ESPN Sling TV through the Sling Orange package is essential for catching Monday Night Football and all the surrounding NFL discussion.
Fox NFL Sling TV
Fox is one of the major broadcasters of the NFL. They typically air:
- Sunday Afternoon Games: Often featuring NFC teams.
- Thanksgiving Day Games: Fox usually broadcasts one of the Thanksgiving Day matchups.
- NFL GameDay Morning: Pre-game shows offering analysis and predictions.
Having Fox NFL Sling TV is critical for a significant portion of the Sunday NFL schedule. This channel is available with Sling Blue.
CBS NFL Sling TV
CBS is the other primary network for Sunday afternoon NFL games, often featuring AFC teams. Their NFL coverage includes:
- Sunday Afternoon Games: Complementing Fox’s schedule.
- Super Bowl Broadcasts: CBS rotates with other networks to broadcast the Super Bowl.
- The NFL Today: Their flagship pre-game show.
Access to CBS NFL Sling TV is a must for a complete Sunday football viewing experience. This channel is also included with Sling Blue.
NBC and Sunday Night Football Sling TV
NBC is the exclusive broadcaster of Sunday Night Football, arguably the most-watched weekly NFL game. This prime-time matchup consistently features high-profile teams and thrilling finishes.
- Sunday Night Football: The flagship primetime NFL game.
- Football Night in America: The popular pre-game show.
To watch NFL Sling TV, especially the marquee Sunday Night Football game, you absolutely need NBC, which is part of the Sling Blue package.
Navigating Local Channels for NFL Games
The challenge with Sling TV, and many other streaming services, is the availability of local channels. While Sling Blue includes local Fox, CBS, and NBC in many markets, it’s not guaranteed for every subscriber.
How to Check Local Channel Availability
- Sling TV’s Website: The most reliable way to check is to visit the Sling TV website and enter your ZIP code. They will show you exactly which local channels are available in your area with Sling Blue.
- Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna: If your local Fox, CBS, or NBC affiliates are not available through Sling TV in your area, a simple, inexpensive OTA antenna can be a fantastic supplement. Many local channels broadcast their signals digitally, and an antenna can pick them up for free. This is often the most cost-effective solution for those whose local channels aren’t streamed by Sling TV.
Missing your local team’s games because your chosen streaming service doesn’t carry the right local affiliate is frustrating. Always verify local channel availability before committing to a plan.
Sling TV Extras and Add-Ons for Enhanced NFL Viewing
Even with the base packages, you might find yourself wanting more. Sling TV offers a variety of “Extras” that can bolster your NFL viewing experience.
Sports Extra
The Sports Extra add-on is particularly valuable for NFL fans. Depending on whether you have Sling Orange or Sling Blue, the Sports Extra pack varies:
- Orange Sports Extra: Typically includes channels like NFL RedZone, ESPNU, ESPNews, and more.
- Blue Sports Extra: May include channels like NFL RedZone, Fox Sports 1 (FS1), Fox Sports 2 (FS2), and others.
NFL RedZone is a channel that every serious NFL fan dreams of. Hosted by Scott Hanson, it switches between all the live games that are in the red zone on Sunday afternoons. If a touchdown is scored, you’ll see it live. This channel is typically available through the Sports Extra add-on for either Sling Orange or Sling Blue, or sometimes as part of a combined package. If you’re serious about watching NFL games Sling TV, NFL RedZone is a must-have, and it comes via the Sports Extra.
Other Relevant Extras
- News Extra: While not directly NFL-focused, this can include channels like Fox Business and CNBC, which might occasionally have NFL-related business or financial news.
- Premium Channels: Services like HBO Max or Showtime, while not directly NFL channels, might offer documentaries or series related to the NFL that enhance your overall football fandom.
Table 2: Popular Sling TV Extras and Their NFL Relevance
| Extra Package | Key Channels for NFL Fans | What It Offers | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Extra | NFL RedZone, ESPNU, FS1 | More sports | $10-15/month |
Note: Specific channels within Extras can vary by package and region. Always confirm contents on the Sling TV website.
Watching Specific NFL Games and Events on Sling TV
Let’s break down how you can catch the major NFL viewing events on Sling TV:
Sunday Afternoon Games
To catch the bulk of Sunday afternoon NFL action, you’ll need access to Fox NFL Sling TV and CBS NFL Sling TV. This means subscribing to Sling Blue or Sling Orange + Blue. The specific games you receive on Fox and CBS will depend on your geographic location and which conference (NFC or AFC) is being broadcast by those networks in your market.
Sunday Night Football Sling TV
Sunday Night Football Sling TV requires access to NBC. NBC is included in the Sling Blue and Sling Orange + Blue packages. If NBC is available in your local market through Sling TV, you can watch Sunday Night Football live. If not, an OTA antenna is your best bet for this specific game.
Monday Night Football Sling TV
Monday Night Football Sling TV is broadcast on ESPN. ESPN is a core channel in the Sling Orange and Sling Orange + Blue packages. So, if you subscribe to either of these, you’re all set for Monday Night Football.
Thursday Night Football
Thursday Night Football’s broadcast rights have been more complex over the years, often airing on NFL Network, Fox, or Amazon Prime Video.
- NFL Network: If TNF is on NFL Network, it’s available with Sling Orange.
- Fox: If TNF is on Fox, it’s available with Sling Blue.
- Amazon Prime Video: Sling TV does not directly offer Amazon Prime Video. For games exclusively on Prime Video, you would need a separate Amazon Prime subscription.
Thanksgiving Day Games
Thanksgiving Day games are typically split between CBS, Fox, and NBC. Having Sling Orange + Blue ensures you have access to all three networks and can watch all the Thanksgiving NFL action.
Playoffs and Super Bowl
The NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl rotate between CBS, Fox, NBC, and ESPN (for the AFC Championship game). By subscribing to Sling Orange + Blue, you significantly increase your chances of having access to the broadcast channel for these high-stakes games. However, it’s always wise to check the broadcast schedule for the current season to confirm which network will be airing the Super Bowl and playoff games.
Tips for the Best Sling TV NFL Experience
To make the most of your Sling TV NFL viewing:
- Check Local Channels: As mentioned, this is paramount. Use Sling TV’s ZIP code checker.
- Consider the Bundle: Sling Orange + Blue offers the most comprehensive access to NFL games. While more expensive than individual packages, it often provides better value than subscribing to multiple streaming services.
- Get the Sports Extra: If you’re a die-hard fan who wants every possible angle, including NFL RedZone, the Sports Extra add-on is worth the investment.
- Internet Speed: Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. Sling TV is a streaming service, and a poor internet connection will lead to buffering and a degraded viewing experience. Sling TV recommends at least 3 Mbps for streaming on one device.
- Device Compatibility: Sling TV is available on a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming sticks (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV), gaming consoles, smartphones, and tablets. Make sure you have a compatible device.
- DVR Functionality: Sling TV offers cloud DVR storage. You can record NFL games Sling TV to watch later, which is perfect for busy schedules or if you want to avoid commercials. The amount of DVR storage can vary depending on your subscription or if you opt for add-ons.
Sling TV vs. Other Streaming Services for NFL Football
It’s helpful to compare Sling TV to other popular streaming options for NFL viewing:
- YouTube TV: Often considered a premium option, YouTube TV typically includes all the major local networks (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC) plus ESPN and NFL Network. It’s generally more expensive than Sling TV but offers a more comprehensive local channel lineup in most areas.
- Hulu + Live TV: Similar to YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV usually includes all the major local networks and ESPN. It also offers NFL Network in some packages. It’s a strong contender for watching NFL games Sling TV fans might also consider.
- FuboTV: FuboTV started as a sports-focused streaming service and is excellent for NFL fans, often including all major sports channels and local networks. It can be one of the pricier options.
- DirecTV Stream: This service offers a wide range of channels and can be very comprehensive, but it typically comes with a higher price tag, making Sling TV a more budget-friendly alternative for many.
- Amazon Prime Video: Increasingly broadcasting Thursday Night Football, Amazon Prime Video is a crucial service for specific games but doesn’t offer the breadth of live games that Sling TV or other live TV streaming services do.
Sling TV stands out for its customization and lower entry price point. If you’re strategic with your package and add-ons, you can get a great NFL viewing experience without breaking the bank. However, if local channel availability is a major concern and you prefer a simpler, all-inclusive package, services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV might be a better fit, albeit at a higher cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I watch all NFL games on Sling TV?
No, you cannot watch all NFL games on Sling TV. Sling TV provides access to the primary broadcast networks (CBS, Fox, NBC) that carry most regular-season games, plus ESPN for Monday Night Football and NFL Network for additional content and some live games. However, games that are exclusively streamed on platforms like Amazon Prime Video or Peacock would not be available through Sling TV alone.
Do I need Sling Orange or Sling Blue for the NFL?
To watch the most NFL games, you will likely need Sling Orange + Blue.
* Sling Orange provides ESPN (for Monday Night Football) and NFL Network.
* Sling Blue provides Fox, CBS, and NBC (for Sunday Night Football), which are crucial for Sunday afternoon and prime-time games.
How do I get NFL RedZone on Sling TV?
You can get NFL RedZone by subscribing to the Sports Extra add-on for either Sling Orange or Sling Blue. It’s a fantastic way to watch NFL Sling TV if you want to see every touchdown scored on Sundays.
Is Sling TV cheaper than cable for watching the NFL?
Generally, yes. Sling TV offers a more à la carte approach, allowing you to pay for only the channels you need. This often results in a lower monthly cost compared to traditional cable packages that may include many channels you don’t watch.
Can I watch local NFL games if I don’t have an antenna?
If your local Fox, CBS, or NBC affiliates are available through Sling Blue in your ZIP code, then yes, you can watch local NFL games. However, if they are not available, you will need an OTA antenna to receive these local broadcasts over the air.
Does Sling TV offer a free trial for NFL games?
Sling TV frequently offers promotional deals, including free trials for new subscribers. It’s always a good idea to check their website for current offers before signing up to see if you can try their service before committing.
What if my team’s game isn’t on a channel Sling TV offers?
This is a common issue with live TV streaming. If your team’s game is broadcast on a network not included in your Sling TV package, or if it’s a regional broadcast not available in your area through Sling, your options are typically:
1. Use an OTA Antenna: If the game is on CBS, Fox, or NBC and those channels are available over the air in your region, an antenna is your best bet.
2. Alternative Streaming Service: If the game is exclusively on another platform (like Amazon Prime Video), you would need a subscription to that service.
3. Radio Broadcasts: Many NFL games are available via local radio stations or national sports radio networks.
By carefully selecting your Sling TV package and considering add-ons like the Sports Extra, you can build a robust Sling TV NFL viewing experience that covers most of the league’s action throughout the season. Remember to always check for local channel availability and stay updated on broadcast schedules.