Can You Watch Any NFL Game on YouTube TV? The Definitive Guide

The short answer: No, you cannot watch every single NFL game on YouTube TV, but you can access a vast majority of them. Understanding the nuances of NFL broadcasting deals is key to maximizing your football viewing experience. This article breaks down exactly what you can and cannot watch on YouTube TV, and provides essential tips to ensure you don’t miss a single snap.

Decoding the NFL Broadcast Landscape

The NFL operates within a complex web of broadcasting agreements. National games are split between networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video. Locally broadcast games are typically shown on your regional CBS and FOX affiliates. Therefore, whether you can watch an NFL game on YouTube TV depends on which network is broadcasting the game and your location.

YouTube TV carries all the major networks: CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, and regional sports networks (RSNs) in many markets. This means you’ll get access to a large chunk of the NFL season, including:

• Sunday Afternoon Games: Games broadcast on CBS and FOX, primarily your local team’s games.
• Sunday Night Football: Broadcast on NBC.
• Monday Night Football: Broadcast on ESPN.
• Thursday Night Football: While previously on FOX and NFL Network, these games are now exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
• NFL Network Games: A selection of Thursday and Saturday games broadcast on NFL Network.
• Playoff Games: Most playoff games are broadcast on the major networks carried by YouTube TV.

However, there are key exceptions:

• Amazon Prime Video Exclusives: As of 2022, Thursday Night Football is exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video. This means you cannot watch these games on YouTube TV. You’ll need an Amazon Prime subscription.
• Regional Blackouts: Although YouTube TV offers local channels, NFL blackout rules can still apply. This is rare, but if a game isn’t selling enough tickets locally, it might be blacked out on local television.
• Specific Local Channel Availability: While YouTube TV aims to carry all local affiliates, availability varies by market. Double-check that your local CBS and FOX channels are included in your YouTube TV subscription.

Optimizing Your YouTube TV Football Viewing Experience

To make the most of watching NFL games on YouTube TV, consider these tips:

• Verify Local Channel Coverage: Before subscribing, use the YouTube TV website to check which local channels are available in your area. Make sure you have access to your local CBS and FOX affiliates.
• Record Games: The unlimited DVR storage on YouTube TV is a game-changer. Record all the games you want to watch, even if you can’t watch them live. You can then skip commercials and watch at your convenience.
• Utilize the “Sports View” Feature: YouTube TV’s “Sports View” section makes it easy to find live and upcoming games. You can also set recordings for your favorite teams.
• Explore Add-on Packages: While not directly related to NFL, consider add-on packages like Sports Plus for additional sports content that might complement your viewing habits.
• Don’t Forget Amazon Prime Video: A subscription to Amazon Prime Video is essential for watching Thursday Night Football.
• Consider an Antenna: For certain situations, especially in areas with strong broadcast signals, an over-the-air (OTA) antenna might provide access to local channels not available on YouTube TV or as backup in case of internet issues. This is especially useful for accessing CBS and FOX channels.
• Stay Updated on Schedule Changes: The NFL schedule is subject to change. Keep an eye on the official NFL schedule and YouTube TV’s guide to stay informed about any adjustments.

FAQs: Your NFL on YouTube TV Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify your NFL viewing options on YouTube TV:

1. Does YouTube TV include NFL RedZone?

Yes, but only as part of the Sports Plus add-on package. NFL RedZone provides whip-around coverage of every NFL game on Sunday afternoons, showing you every touchdown. It’s a fantastic way to stay up-to-date on all the action.

2. Can I watch NFL games in 4K on YouTube TV?

Select NFL games are available in 4K on YouTube TV, but only with the 4K Plus add-on. The availability of 4K games varies each week, and you’ll need a compatible 4K TV and streaming device.

3. Does YouTube TV offer NFL Sunday Ticket?

No, not directly as of the 2023 season. NFL Sunday Ticket, which provides access to all out-of-market Sunday afternoon games, is now offered exclusively through YouTube and YouTube TV as a separate subscription. You do not need a base YouTube TV subscription to purchase Sunday Ticket, but subscribing through YouTube TV may offer benefits.

4. Can I watch NFL games on YouTube TV while traveling?

Yes, but with limitations. You can watch your local channels in your home market when you travel within the United States. However, you won’t be able to access local channels in your new location. National broadcasts (ESPN, NBC, NFL Network) will still be available.

5. What happens if a game is blacked out on my local channels on YouTube TV?

Unfortunately, YouTube TV adheres to NFL blackout rules. If a game is blacked out locally, it won’t be available on YouTube TV, even if you have the correct local channel.

6. How do I record NFL games on YouTube TV?

Simply search for the game in the YouTube TV guide and click the “+” button. This will add the game to your library and automatically record it. You can also set recordings for your favorite teams, and YouTube TV will record all their games.

7. Can I watch NFL games on demand after they air on YouTube TV?

Yes, most NFL games are available on demand after they air. The length of time they remain available varies depending on the network.

8. Does YouTube TV have a free trial?

YouTube TV typically offers a free trial period for new subscribers. Check the YouTube TV website for the latest offers.

9. How much does YouTube TV cost?

The base YouTube TV package costs around $73 per month. Additional add-ons, such as Sports Plus and 4K Plus, incur extra monthly charges. Check their website for updated pricing.

10. Can I share my YouTube TV subscription with family members to watch NFL games?

Yes, YouTube TV allows you to create up to six accounts within your household. Each account gets its own personalized library and DVR. However, only three streams can be used simultaneously.

11. Is it possible to watch NFL games in Spanish on YouTube TV?

Yes, YouTube TV offers some NFL games with Spanish-language audio. Check the game details in the guide to see if Spanish audio is available.

12. What devices are compatible with YouTube TV for watching NFL games?

YouTube TV is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices (Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, Fire TV), computers, smartphones, and tablets. Ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements for optimal streaming quality.

In conclusion, while YouTube TV won’t give you every single NFL game due to exclusive deals like Amazon Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football, it provides a comprehensive and convenient way to watch the vast majority of the NFL season. By understanding the broadcast landscape, utilizing YouTube TV’s features, and supplementing your viewing with other services, you can create the ultimate NFL viewing experience.