In January, the NFL caught a lot of people off guard when the AFC Wild Card game was not aired on any major broadcast network, ESPN or even its own NFL Network. Fans who wanted to see if the Chiefs would make the playoffs had to subscribe to the Peacock streaming service.
Now, as the NFL kicks off the 2024-2025 season, the NBCUniversal service is home to yet another exclusive—as the second game of the season will once again only be aired on Peacock.
While fans might object to having to subscribe to yet another service to watch the games, it’s something they might have to get used to. The NFL was thrilled with the game’s viewership numbers—and indicated it’s open to more streaming exclusives.
“We couldn’t be prouder of our partnership with Peacock and are thrilled with the results of the first-ever exclusively live streamed NFL playoff game,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement earlier this year. “To best serve our fans, we need to ensure games are available to them as their viewing habits change and this includes digital distribution as we continue to help shape the future of the sports and entertainment industry.”
Here’s how to catch Friday night’s game. And what you can expect for the rest of the season as far as streaming exclusives go.
Which NFL teams are playing Friday? And what channels are airing the games?
Like last night, there’s just one game taking place on Friday. (The home team is listed second.)
Friday, Sept. 6
Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 8:15 p.m. ET on Peacock
How can I watch NFL games for free—even if I am out of market?
Normally, we’d suggest a good HD antenna here, but that won’t do you any good for tonight’s game. That leaves you one option
Can I stream 2024 NFL games live online if I don’t have a cable subscription?
Well, obviously…
Peacock
NBC’s streaming service will give you access to several games, including all upcoming Sunday night matchups. Expect to pay a $8 or $14 monthly charge. (The free version of Peacock does not include live sports.)
Will any other games be streaming exclusives this year?
Yes, several more in fact.
Amazon will largely be the exclusive home of Thursday Night Football once again, with the exception of Thanksgiving (though it will air an exclusive game on Black Friday—Las Vegas at Kansas City). Next January, Amazon will also have exclusive rights to an NFL Wild Card game, like Peacock did last year.
On Oct. 21, EPSN+ will exclusively stream a Monday Night Game, when the Los Angeles Chargers face the Arizona Cardinals.
And Netflix will be the exclusive home to two Christmas Day games in December, the streaming service’s first step into the NFL marketplace.
Why is this game taking place in Brazil?
The NFL wants to become known as more than an American sport. Brazil could be a key part of that international expansion, with over 38 million fans, the league says. The first international game was held in Mexico City in 2005 and since then, the NFL has played in several international cities, including London and Munich, Germany.
Does the NFL offer any viewing packages to watch the games I want?
Yes—and they can help you with Friday’s game. There are three to choose from.
NFL App
The NFL App will let you stream games that are being broadcast locally in your market on Sundays. If you want to watch an “out of market” game, you’ve got two choices.
NFL+
Watch live local and out of market games and (with the premium subscription) replays. You’re looking at a $50 charge per season. ($100 for premium.)
NFL Sunday Ticket
YouTube once again is the home for this channel. Prices this year start at $73 per month for Sunday Ticket and YouTubeTV or $449 for just Sunday Ticket (spanning the entirety of out-of-market games this season).
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