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1. Where Can I Watch Tonight’s NFL Game?
Tonight’s NFL game is available on ESPN and ABC. You can also stream the game on services like ESPN+, Fubo, DirecTV, and Hulu with Live TV.
For avid NFL enthusiasts, knowing exactly where and how to catch the game is paramount. Fortunately, there’s a plethora of options to tune into your favorite teams in action. The specific channels broadcasting the game can vary, but major networks like ESPN, ABC, NFL Network, CBS, and Fox are common carriers.
1.1. Streaming Services
Streaming services have revolutionized how we watch sports. Here’s a rundown of popular platforms:
- ESPN+: Offers a wide array of live sports, including select NFL games.
- FuboTV: A comprehensive streaming service that includes ESPN, NFL Network, Fox, ABC, and CBS, along with over 100 other channels.
- DirecTV Stream: Provides access to NFL Network, NBC, CBS, Fox, and regional sports networks (RSNs).
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes ESPN, ESPN+, NBC, CBS, Fox, and NFL Network.
- YouTube TV: Features ESPN, NFL Network, NBC, CBS, Fox, and the option to add on NFL Sunday Ticket.
- Amazon Prime Video: Streams NFL Thursday Night Football games.
- Peacock: Streams NFL games broadcast on NBC, plus exclusive Peacock games.
- Paramount+ Premium: Streams NFL games broadcast on CBS.
- Sling TV Orange & Blue: Includes ESPN, Fox, and NBC.
- NFL+: Offers NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and more.
1.2. Traditional Cable and Local Channels
Traditional cable packages remain a reliable way to watch NFL games. Many games are broadcast on local channels like Fox, CBS, and NBC. A digital TV antenna, such as the Channel Master Flatenna, can also pick up these local broadcasts.
Channel Master Flatenna Ultra-Thin Indoor TV Antenna for Local Broadcasts
1.3. NFL Game Pass
NFL Game Pass is another avenue for fans to watch games. However, it’s important to note that depending on your location, the availability and specific content may vary.
- NFL Game Pass International: Offers live streams of every NFL game, including playoffs and the Super Bowl, outside of the United States.
1.4. Sports Bars and Restaurants
For a communal viewing experience, consider heading to a local sports bar or restaurant. These establishments typically subscribe to a variety of sports packages, ensuring you won’t miss any action. Plus, you can enjoy the camaraderie of fellow fans and the lively atmosphere.
1.5. Free Over-the-Air Broadcasts
In many areas, you can access free over-the-air broadcasts of NFL games on local channels. Networks like CBS, Fox, and NBC often broadcast games as part of their regular programming. To access these broadcasts, you’ll need an antenna, which can be purchased relatively inexpensively.
2. What Time Does the Game Start?
The Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers game starts at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.
Game times are crucial for planning your evening. Most NFL games are scheduled for specific time slots on Sundays, with additional games on Thursdays and Mondays.
2.1. Standard Game Times
- Sunday Afternoon Games: Typically kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET and 4:05 p.m. or 4:25 p.m. ET.
- Sunday Night Football: Usually starts at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.
- Monday Night Football: Generally begins at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
- Thursday Night Football: Kicks off at 8:15 p.m. ET, streamed on Amazon Prime Video.
2.2. Checking Local Listings
To ensure you don’t miss kickoff, always double-check local listings. These listings provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on game times and channels. You can find local listings in your TV guide, online, or through sports apps.
2.3. Time Zone Considerations
If you’re not in the Eastern Time Zone, remember to adjust the game time accordingly. For example, a game starting at 8:00 p.m. ET will begin at 5:00 p.m. PT.
3. How Can I Stream the Game Online?
You can stream the Bengals vs. Steelers game on ESPN+ and other streaming platforms like Fubo TV, DirecTV, and Hulu with Live TV.
Streaming has become an increasingly popular way to watch NFL games. With the rise of various streaming services, fans have more options than ever to catch their favorite teams in action.
3.1. Benefits of Streaming
- Flexibility: Watch games on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs.
- Convenience: Stream from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Cost-Effective: Streaming services often offer more affordable options compared to traditional cable packages.
- Additional Features: Many streaming platforms provide features like DVR storage, on-demand content, and multi-screen viewing.
3.2. Streaming Service Options
- ESPN+: A subscription to ESPN+ provides access to a wide range of live sports events, including select NFL games.
- FuboTV: FuboTV is a comprehensive streaming service that offers a variety of sports channels, including ESPN, NFL Network, Fox, ABC, and CBS.
- DirecTV Stream: DirecTV Stream includes many of the same channels as traditional cable, including NFL Network, NBC, CBS, and Fox.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV offers a mix of live TV channels and on-demand content, including access to NFL games on ESPN, NBC, CBS, and Fox.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV provides access to a variety of channels, including ESPN, NFL Network, NBC, CBS, and Fox.
3.3. VPN for Streaming
If you are traveling or living outside the United States, you may encounter regional restrictions that prevent you from accessing certain streaming services. In these cases, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear as though you are accessing the internet from within the United States.
4. What If I Don’t Have Cable?
You can watch the game through streaming services like Fubo TV, DirecTV, Hulu with Live TV, or ESPN+. An antenna can also pick up local broadcasts.
Cutting the cord doesn’t mean missing out on NFL action. Several options are available for those who don’t have traditional cable.
4.1. Over-the-Air Broadcasts
An antenna can pick up free over-the-air broadcasts from local channels like CBS, Fox, and NBC. This is a cost-effective way to watch many NFL games.
4.2. Streaming Services
As mentioned earlier, streaming services like FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV offer live TV channels without requiring a cable subscription.
4.3. NFL Game Pass
NFL Game Pass is another option, though its availability and content may vary depending on your location.
4.4. Borrowing a Friend’s Login
If you have a friend or family member with a cable or streaming subscription, you may be able to borrow their login credentials to watch games online.
5. Are There Any Free Ways to Watch the Game?
Yes, using an antenna to pick up local broadcasts is a free way to watch games. Some streaming services also offer free trials.
While most options require a subscription, some avenues allow you to watch NFL games for free.
5.1. Over-the-Air Broadcasts
As mentioned earlier, an antenna can pick up free over-the-air broadcasts from local channels like CBS, Fox, and NBC.
5.2. Free Trials
Some streaming services, like FuboTV and DirecTV Stream, offer free trials. This allows you to watch games for a limited time without paying a subscription fee.
5.3. NFL Game Pass Free Content
NFL Game Pass sometimes offers free content, such as game previews and highlights. While this won’t allow you to watch the full game live, it can be a good way to stay up-to-date on the latest NFL action.
5.4. Sports Bars and Restaurants
While not entirely free, watching games at a sports bar or restaurant can be a relatively inexpensive option. You can enjoy the game with fellow fans without paying for a cable or streaming subscription.
6. What Channels Do I Need to Watch All NFL Games?
To watch all NFL games, you’ll need access to ESPN, NFL Network, Fox, NBC, and CBS. Streaming services like Fubo TV and DirecTV Stream offer these channels.
Access to various channels is essential to catch all the NFL games. Here’s a breakdown of the channels you’ll need:
6.1. Key Channels
- ESPN: ESPN broadcasts Monday Night Football and select other NFL games.
- NFL Network: NFL Network offers a variety of NFL-related programming, including live games, analysis, and documentaries.
- Fox: Fox broadcasts Sunday afternoon games, as well as select Thursday Night Football games.
- NBC: NBC broadcasts Sunday Night Football and select other NFL games.
- CBS: CBS broadcasts Sunday afternoon games.
6.2. Streaming Services
As mentioned earlier, streaming services like FuboTV and DirecTV Stream offer these channels without requiring a cable subscription.
6.3. NFL Sunday Ticket
If you want to watch every Sunday afternoon game, you’ll need NFL Sunday Ticket. This package is available through YouTube TV.
6.4. Digital TV Antenna
A digital TV antenna can pick up free over-the-air broadcasts from local channels like CBS, Fox, and NBC.
7. What’s the Full Week 18 NFL Schedule?
Here’s the complete Week 18 NFL schedule (all times Eastern):
Saturday, Jan. 4
- Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens: 4:30 p.m. (ESPN, ABC, ESPN+)
- Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: 8:00 p.m. (ESPN, ABC, ESPN+)
Sunday, Jan. 5
- Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons: 1 p.m. ET (CBS)
- Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys: 1 p.m. ET (FOX)
- Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers: 1 p.m. ET (FOX)
- Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans: 1 p.m. ET (CBS)
- Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts: 1 p.m. ET (FOX)
- Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots: 1 p.m. ET (CBS)
- New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles: 1 p.m ET (CBS)
- New Orleans Saints vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 1 p.m. (FOX)
- Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: 4:25 p.m. (CBS)
- Los Angeles Chargers vs. Las Vegas Raiders: 4:25 p.m. (CBS)
- Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams: 4:25 p.m. (FOX)
- Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets: 4:25 p.m. (FOX)
- San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals: 4:25 p.m. (FOX)
- Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions: 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC, Universo, Peacock)
Knowing the full NFL schedule ensures you never miss a game. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:
7.1. Weekly Schedule Release
The NFL releases its schedule well in advance of the season, typically in the spring. This allows fans to plan their viewing habits and make arrangements to attend games.
7.2. Divisional Matchups
Divisional matchups are always highly anticipated. These games often have significant implications for playoff contention and can be some of the most competitive of the season.
7.3. Primetime Games
Primetime games are broadcast on national television and are often the most-watched games of the week. These games typically feature marquee matchups and are played on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday nights.
7.4. Flexibility
The NFL schedule is subject to change, especially in the later weeks of the season. Games may be moved to different time slots or days to accommodate playoff implications.
8. What Is NFL+ and How Does It Work?
NFL+ is a subscription service that offers access to NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and more. A $7/month subscription gets you access to local and primetime games on mobile or tablet.
NFL+ is a streaming service that provides access to a variety of NFL-related content. Here’s how it works:
8.1. Subscription Options
NFL+ offers two subscription tiers:
- NFL+: Provides access to live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets, as well as NFL Network programming.
- NFL+ Premium: Includes all the features of NFL+, plus NFL RedZone and full game replays.
8.2. Content Availability
The content available on NFL+ varies depending on your location. Live local games are only available in your local market.
8.3. Device Compatibility
NFL+ is compatible with a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and web browsers.
8.4. Limitations
It’s important to note that NFL+ has some limitations. Live local games are only available on mobile devices and tablets, and the service does not offer live streams of all NFL games.
9. How Can I Watch NFL Games on My Phone?
You can watch NFL games on your phone through streaming services like ESPN+, Fubo TV, DirecTV, Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV, or NFL+.
Smartphones have become essential devices for watching live sports. Here’s how you can catch NFL games on your phone:
9.1. Streaming Apps
Most streaming services offer dedicated apps for smartphones. These apps allow you to stream live games, watch on-demand content, and manage your subscription.
9.2. Mobile Data
When streaming NFL games on your phone, it’s important to be mindful of your mobile data usage. Streaming video can consume a significant amount of data, so consider connecting to Wi-Fi whenever possible.
9.3. NFL Mobile App
The NFL offers a dedicated mobile app that provides access to a variety of NFL-related content, including live game scores, highlights, and news.
9.4. VPN for Mobile
If you are traveling or living outside the United States, you may encounter regional restrictions that prevent you from accessing certain streaming services on your phone. A VPN can help bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address.
10. Where Can I Find Live Game-Day Updates?
You can find live game-day updates on sports websites like ESPN, NFL.com, and Yahoo Sports, as well as through social media.
Staying up-to-date on the latest NFL action is essential for avid fans. Here’s how you can find live game-day updates:
10.1. Sports Websites
Sports websites like ESPN, NFL.com, and Yahoo Sports provide real-time game scores, stats, and news updates. These websites also often feature live blogs and analysis from experts.
10.2. Social Media
Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook are great for finding live game-day updates. Many sports reporters, analysts, and fans share updates and insights on social media.
10.3. NFL Mobile App
The NFL mobile app provides live game scores, stats, and news updates. The app also offers personalized notifications, so you can stay informed about your favorite teams.
10.4. Radio Broadcasts
If you are on the go, you can listen to live radio broadcasts of NFL games. Many radio stations offer online streams, so you can listen from anywhere.
By using these resources, you can stay up-to-date on the latest NFL action and never miss a moment of the game.
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FAQ About Watching NFL Games
1. What is the best streaming service for watching NFL games?
Fubo TV is often considered the best due to its comprehensive channel lineup, including ESPN, NFL Network, Fox, NBC, and CBS.
2. Can I watch NFL games on Amazon Prime?
Yes, Amazon Prime streams NFL Thursday Night Football games.
3. Is NFL RedZone available without cable?
Yes, NFL RedZone is available through streaming services like NFL+ Premium and Sling TV.
4. How much does NFL Sunday Ticket cost?
NFL Sunday Ticket is available through YouTube TV and pricing varies.
5. Can I use a VPN to watch NFL games?
Yes, a VPN can help bypass regional restrictions when streaming NFL games.
6. What is the cheapest way to watch NFL games?
Using an antenna to pick up over-the-air broadcasts is the cheapest way to watch NFL games.
7. Do I need cable to watch Monday Night Football?
No, Monday Night Football is broadcast on ESPN and can be streamed through services like ESPN+ and Hulu + Live TV.
8. How can I watch NFL games in 4K?
Some streaming services, like Fubo TV and YouTube TV, offer select NFL games in 4K resolution.
9. Can I watch NFL games on my Smart TV?
Yes, most streaming services offer apps for Smart TVs, allowing you to watch NFL games on your big screen.
10. What are the playoff implications for the Bengals vs. Steelers game?
The game has playoff implications for both teams. A win for the Bengals, combined with losses by the Broncos and Dolphins, could secure them a playoff spot. The Steelers are playing for playoff seeding.
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