The Definitive Guide: How to Watch RedZone on Roku

So, you’re itching for that glorious, commercial-free, touchdown-packed Sunday experience that only NFL RedZone can deliver? You’ve got your Roku ready, and you’re wondering, “How do I get this show on the road?” Fear not, fellow football fanatic! Let’s break down exactly how to watch RedZone on your Roku, because missing that game-winning drive is simply not an option.

The straightforward answer: You can’t directly install a dedicated “NFL RedZone” app on Roku. Instead, you need to access RedZone through a streaming service that carries it. Think of it like ordering pizza; RedZone is the pizza, and the streaming service is the delivery service. Here’s how to get your order in:

Finding Your RedZone Delivery Service

The key to RedZone nirvana on your Roku lies in choosing the right streaming service. Here are the main contenders:

• NFL Network (via select streaming services): The NFL Network channel itself carries RedZone. You’ll need a streaming service that includes NFL Network in its package to access it.
• NFL+ Premium: This is the NFL’s own streaming service. The NFL+ Premium tier is the one that includes RedZone.

Let’s explore how to utilize each of these avenues on your Roku.

NFL Network Access via Streaming Services

Several streaming services carry the NFL Network, which then allows you to access RedZone during the season. Here are some popular options:

• Sling TV (Blue or Orange + Sports Extra): Sling TV’s Blue or Orange package, combined with the Sports Extra add-on, is a very popular and relatively affordable way to get NFL Network and thus, RedZone.
• fuboTV: fuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that includes NFL Network in its base package, making it a solid choice for RedZone enthusiasts.
• YouTube TV: Another strong contender, YouTube TV carries NFL Network as part of its base package, giving you access to RedZone.

Here’s the process, step-by-step:

1. Subscribe to a Streaming Service: Choose one of the services mentioned above (Sling TV, fuboTV, or YouTube TV) and create an account on their website. Be sure that NFL Network is included in the package you select.
2. Download the App on Roku: On your Roku device, navigate to the Roku Channel Store and search for the app of the streaming service you chose (e.g., “Sling TV,” “fuboTV,” or “YouTube TV”). Install the app.
3. Sign In: Open the app on your Roku and sign in using the credentials you created when you subscribed to the service.
4. Find NFL Network: Within the app, look for the NFL Network channel in the guide.
5. Tune in to RedZone on Sundays: On Sundays during the NFL season, tune in to the NFL Network channel to watch RedZone. The channel usually indicates the time that RedZone will be live.

NFL+ Premium Access

The NFL+ Premium subscription from the NFL offers another route to RedZone on your Roku.

Here’s the process:

1. Subscribe to NFL+ Premium: Visit the NFL website and subscribe to NFL+ Premium. Make sure you’re selecting the Premium tier, as the base NFL+ does not include RedZone.
2. Download the NFL App on Roku: Head to the Roku Channel Store and install the official NFL app.
3. Sign In: Launch the NFL app on your Roku and sign in using the credentials you created when you subscribed to NFL+ Premium.
4. Find RedZone: Within the NFL app, look for the RedZone option. It should be prominently displayed on Sundays during the NFL season.
5. Enjoy RedZone: Start watching RedZone and immerse yourself in the excitement!

Important Considerations

• Check Blackout Restrictions: While RedZone aims to show you every touchdown, blackout restrictions might apply in certain areas. It’s a good idea to research potential blackouts based on your location.
• Internet Speed: A stable and relatively fast internet connection is crucial for a smooth streaming experience. Make sure your Roku has a strong Wi-Fi signal or is connected via Ethernet for optimal performance.
• Free Trials: Many of the streaming services offering NFL Network provide free trials. Take advantage of these trials to test out the service and see if it meets your needs before committing to a subscription.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a dedicated NFL RedZone app on Roku?

No, there isn’t a standalone NFL RedZone app available directly in the Roku Channel Store. You need to access RedZone through a streaming service like Sling TV, fuboTV, YouTube TV (via NFL Network), or through NFL+ Premium via the NFL App.

2. Which Sling TV package do I need to watch RedZone?

You need either the Sling Blue or Sling Orange package, plus the Sports Extra add-on. The Sports Extra is crucial, as it’s what provides you with access to NFL Network, which carries RedZone.

3. Does NFL+ offer RedZone?

Yes, but only the NFL+ Premium tier includes RedZone. The standard NFL+ subscription does not include live RedZone broadcasts.

4. Can I watch RedZone in 4K on Roku?

This depends on the streaming service and your Roku device. While some services may offer 4K content for certain events, RedZone is not always available in 4K. Check with the specific streaming service for their RedZone streaming resolution. Also, you need to have a Roku device that supports 4K resolution.

5. My streaming service says I should have access to NFL Network, but I don’t see it. What should I do?

First, double-check that you’ve subscribed to the correct package or add-on that includes NFL Network. If you have, try signing out of the streaming app on your Roku and then signing back in. If the issue persists, contact the customer support for your streaming service for assistance.

6. Will using a VPN help me bypass blackout restrictions for RedZone?

While a VPN might mask your location and potentially bypass some blackout restrictions, this often violates the terms of service of the streaming platform and the NFL. It’s generally not recommended, and the streaming service could block your access.

7. What internet speed do I need for smooth RedZone streaming on Roku?

At a minimum, you should have a stable internet speed of at least 10 Mbps for streaming RedZone in HD. For a smoother experience, especially if you have multiple devices using the internet simultaneously, a speed of 25 Mbps or higher is recommended.

8. How much does it cost to watch RedZone on Roku?

The cost depends on the streaming service you choose. Sling TV’s Blue or Orange package with the Sports Extra starts at a certain price per month. fuboTV and YouTube TV have different base prices, and NFL+ Premium has its own monthly or annual subscription fee. Check the specific pricing details on each service’s website.

9. Can I record RedZone to watch later?

This depends on the streaming service. Some services, like YouTube TV, offer cloud DVR functionality, allowing you to record RedZone and watch it later. Check the features of your chosen streaming service to see if DVR recording is available.

10. I’m getting a lot of buffering while watching RedZone on Roku. What can I do?

Buffering issues can be frustrating. Try the following:

• Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal. Consider connecting your Roku directly to your router via Ethernet cable.
• Close other apps: Close any other apps running on your Roku or other devices on your network, as they may be consuming bandwidth.
• Restart your Roku: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.
• Lower the video quality: If possible, lower the video quality settings within the streaming app.
• Contact your internet service provider: If the problem persists, it could be an issue with your internet service.

11. Is RedZone available in Canada on Roku?

RedZone availability in Canada on Roku depends on the streaming services offered in that region. Check which services offer NFL Network and RedZone in Canada, and then subscribe to one of those services and access it on your Roku.

12. Can I cast RedZone from my phone to my Roku?

Yes, many streaming services that offer RedZone, such as YouTube TV, allow you to cast content from your phone or tablet to your Roku using Chromecast or AirPlay (if your Roku device supports it). Just make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.