How to Watch NFL Plus on Apple TV: The Definitive Guide

So, you’re itching to catch all the gridiron action on your Apple TV with NFL Plus, huh? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s cut to the chase: you can access NFL Plus on your Apple TV, but not directly through a dedicated app. This might sound frustrating, but don’t worry; there are perfectly viable ways to get your fix of NFL games and content right on that big screen. The primary methods involve using AirPlay from your iPhone or iPad or accessing NFL Plus content through the NFL app. We’ll dissect these methods, troubleshoot potential hiccups, and answer every question that’s likely swirling around your football-loving brain. Let’s dive in.

AirPlay: Your Wireless Pigskin Portal

The most common, and often simplest, way to watch NFL Plus on your Apple TV is via AirPlay mirroring or AirPlay video streaming from your compatible iOS or iPadOS device. Think of it as turning your phone or tablet into a remote control that beams the game straight to your television.

Setting Up AirPlay for NFL Plus

Here’s the step-by-step rundown:

1. Subscribe to NFL Plus: First and foremost, ensure you have an active NFL Plus subscription. You can sign up through the NFL website or the NFL app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Download the NFL App: If you haven’t already, download the official NFL app from the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. This app is your gateway to NFL Plus content.
3. Connect to the Same Wi-Fi Network: Crucially, both your Apple TV and your iPhone/iPad must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This is absolutely essential for AirPlay to function correctly.
4. Enable AirPlay on Your Apple TV: Go to the Settings app on your Apple TV. Navigate to AirPlay and HomeKit (or just AirPlay on older models) and make sure AirPlay is turned On. Consider setting a password for added security if you want to prevent unauthorized AirPlay connections.
5. Start the NFL App and Choose Your Content: Launch the NFL app on your iPhone or iPad. Navigate to the NFL Plus section and select the game or content you want to watch.
6. Initiate AirPlay:
   • Mirroring (Full Screen): Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone or iPad screen (or up from the bottom on older models) to access the Control Center. Tap the Screen Mirroring icon (two overlapping rectangles). Choose your Apple TV from the list of available devices. Your entire device screen will now be mirrored on your Apple TV.
   • Video Streaming (Direct Stream): While watching your content in the NFL app, look for the AirPlay icon (a rectangle with a triangle pointing upwards) within the video player controls. Tap the icon and select your Apple TV. This method streams the video directly to your Apple TV, allowing you to use your iPhone or iPad for other tasks without interrupting the playback. This is generally the preferred method as it offers better video quality and less battery drain.
7. Enjoy the Game! The selected NFL Plus content should now be playing on your Apple TV. Control playback (pause, rewind, fast forward) from either your Apple TV remote or from the NFL app on your iPhone or iPad.

Leveraging the NFL App on Apple TV (Sometimes)

While there isn’t a dedicated NFL Plus app for Apple TV, the regular NFL app sometimes allows access to NFL Plus content depending on what your subscription includes and the specific game.

Accessing NFL Plus Through the NFL App: A Check List

1. Download the NFL App on Apple TV: First, ensure you’ve downloaded the official NFL app from the App Store directly on your Apple TV.
2. Login with your NFL Account: Open the NFL app and log in using the same username and password associated with your NFL Plus subscription. This is essential.
3. Check for Live Games and Content: Navigate within the NFL app to the “Live Games” or “NFL Plus” section (the exact naming and location can vary based on the app’s updates). See if the content you want to watch is available there. Note that the content shown here may be dependent on your geographical location.
4. If Available, Play the Content: If the content is listed, select it and start the stream.
5. Troubleshooting: If you’re logged in with your credentials and should have access, but still are unable to view the game, make sure you have an active subscription, and check your location, as NFL+ may not have the same rights available everywhere.
6. Accept that you may need to use AirPlay: Due to the varying offerings, streaming rights and location, chances are you will still have to use AirPlay, but it is still worth checking the native NFL App on your Apple TV first.

Troubleshooting AirPlay and NFL App Issues

Sometimes, technology throws a curveball. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:

• AirPlay Not Working:
  • Check Wi-Fi: Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Restart Devices: Power cycle your Apple TV, iPhone/iPad, and Wi-Fi router. It sounds simple, but it often works wonders.
  • AirPlay Settings: Double-check the AirPlay settings on your Apple TV to ensure it’s enabled and that you’re not accidentally blocking connections.
  • Software Updates: Ensure both your Apple TV and your iPhone/iPad are running the latest software versions.
• NFL App Issues:
  • App Update: Make sure you have the latest version of the NFL app installed.
  • Login Issues: Double-check your username and password. Try resetting your password if you’re unsure.
  • Content Restrictions: NFL Plus has certain restrictions based on location and device. Ensure the content you’re trying to watch is available in your region and compatible with your Apple TV.
  • Contact NFL Support: If all else fails, reach out to NFL customer support for assistance.

NFL Plus: Subscription Tiers and What They Offer

Understanding the different NFL Plus subscription tiers is key to knowing what you can actually watch. The offering can change over time, but here’s the general gist:

• NFL Plus: This typically includes live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets, live out-of-market preseason games (subject to blackout restrictions), and on-demand access to NFL Network shows and game replays.
• NFL Plus Premium: This offers everything in the base tier, plus full game replays (all-22 coaches film) across all devices (including Apple TV via AirPlay), and ad-free access to game replays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Watching NFL Plus on Apple TV

1. Is there a dedicated NFL Plus app for Apple TV?

No, currently there is no dedicated NFL Plus app specifically designed for Apple TV. You will need to use AirPlay from your iPhone or iPad or check the regular NFL app for limited content access.

2. Can I watch live NFL games on Apple TV with NFL Plus?

Yes, you can watch live local and primetime games on Apple TV with NFL Plus using AirPlay. The NFL app may also offer this, but AirPlay provides a more consistent solution.

3. What is AirPlay, and how does it work with NFL Plus?

AirPlay is Apple’s wireless streaming technology that allows you to mirror your iPhone or iPad screen or stream video content directly to your Apple TV. With NFL Plus, you use AirPlay to send the video from the NFL app on your mobile device to your TV.

4. Why is my AirPlay connection not working?

Common causes of AirPlay issues include being on different Wi-Fi networks, outdated software, or AirPlay being disabled in your Apple TV settings. Check these factors and restart your devices.

5. Does NFL Plus Premium offer any advantages for Apple TV users?

Yes, NFL Plus Premium offers full game replays (including coaches film) across all devices. While there’s still no dedicated app, you can AirPlay these replays to your Apple TV for a comprehensive viewing experience.

6. Can I use a VPN to bypass blackout restrictions with NFL Plus on Apple TV?

While VPNs might work, using them to bypass blackout restrictions is a gray area and may violate NFL Plus’s terms of service. It’s generally not recommended and can lead to account suspension.

7. How much data does streaming NFL Plus via AirPlay use?

Streaming NFL Plus consumes a significant amount of data. Expect to use several gigabytes per game, especially in high definition. Consider monitoring your data usage if you have a limited data plan.

8. Is NFL RedZone available through NFL Plus on Apple TV?

NFL RedZone is not directly available through NFL Plus on Apple TV via a dedicated app. You could stream from your phone or tablet using AirPlay if your subscription includes it. RedZone is typically offered as part of a different subscription package through cable or streaming providers.

9. How do I update the NFL app on my Apple TV?

Go to the App Store on your Apple TV. Navigate to your Account or Updates section and check for available updates for the NFL app. Install any pending updates.

10. What are the system requirements for using AirPlay with NFL Plus?

You’ll need a compatible Apple TV (4th generation or later recommended) and an iPhone or iPad running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Both devices must support AirPlay 2 for optimal performance.

11. My video quality is poor when using AirPlay. What can I do?

Ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection. Move your devices closer to your router and minimize interference from other electronic devices. Also, close other apps running in the background on your iPhone or iPad. Try setting Airplay to prefer quality over speed.

12. Can I use a third-party app to stream NFL Plus to my Apple TV?

While some third-party apps may offer screen mirroring capabilities, they are generally not recommended for streaming NFL Plus due to potential compatibility issues, security risks, and violation of NFL’s terms of service. Sticking to AirPlay from the official NFL app is the safest and most reliable option.

Ultimately, while the lack of a dedicated app might seem like a hurdle, watching NFL Plus on your Apple TV is perfectly achievable. With a little AirPlay magic and these helpful tips, you’ll be enjoying the best of the NFL right from your couch in no time! Get ready for some football!