How to Watch NFL Games on Apple TV: Your Ultimate Playbook

So, you want to watch the thrills and spills of the NFL right from the comfort of your couch, streamed directly to your Apple TV? Excellent choice! It’s a fantastic viewing experience. Here’s the definitive guide to get you fully equipped for every touchdown, interception, and bone-crushing tackle.

The simplest and most direct way to watch NFL games on Apple TV is via the NFL+ app and through streaming services that carry NFL games, such as Paramount+, ESPN+, Fubo, Sling TV, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV. Each of these has a dedicated app for Apple TV, which you can download from the App Store. Additionally, you can also access games through the Amazon Prime Video app for Thursday Night Football games. Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding Your NFL on Apple TV Options

The path to pigskin glory on your Apple TV depends on a few key factors: which games you want to watch, your budget, and whether you’re already subscribed to any relevant services.

Streaming Services with Live NFL Games

This is the most common method. Many streaming services offer live broadcasts of NFL games, mirroring what you’d get with a traditional cable subscription.

• YouTube TV: This is a powerhouse, generally offering local CBS, FOX, and NBC channels, as well as ESPN and NFL Network. This covers the vast majority of NFL games each week. It’s often considered one of the most complete options.

• Hulu + Live TV: Similar to YouTube TV, it carries local channels, ESPN, and NFL Network, granting you access to a wide range of games. Hulu also has the benefit of including the regular Hulu streaming library.

• Fubo: While it offers many of the same channels as YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, its strength lies in sports coverage. It usually has regional sports networks (RSNs) that may broadcast local NFL games. Note: RSN availability varies by location.

• Sling TV: This is often the most budget-friendly option, but it requires careful channel selection. Sling Orange includes ESPN, while Sling Blue includes FOX and NBC in select markets. You’ll likely need the Sling Orange + Blue package to get comprehensive NFL coverage. Also, NFL Network requires an add-on.

• Paramount+: This is the go-to for CBS games. It broadcasts games aired on your local CBS affiliate. It’s a cost-effective choice if you primarily want to watch AFC games.

• ESPN+: While it doesn’t broadcast traditional Sunday afternoon games, ESPN+ occasionally streams exclusive NFL games, particularly international games or some Monday Night Football broadcasts (simulcast).

• Amazon Prime Video: Home of Thursday Night Football, this is essential if you want to catch those primetime matchups. Prime Video is accessible via its dedicated app on Apple TV.

The NFL+ App

NFL+ is the NFL’s own streaming service. It offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets only, plus live out-of-market preseason games. You can also stream game replays and NFL Network programming. However, importantly, you cannot watch live regular season games on your Apple TV via the NFL+ app. It’s primarily for mobile viewing.

Leveraging the Apple TV App

The Apple TV app acts as a hub for accessing content from various streaming services. If you’re subscribed to services like Paramount+, ESPN+, or even have purchased games through iTunes, they should appear in the Apple TV app, making it easier to find and watch them. It’s worth checking to see if your NFL content is consolidated there.

Setting Up Your Apple TV for NFL Viewing

1. Connect Your Apple TV: Ensure your Apple TV is properly connected to your TV and to your home network.
2. Download the Apps: Head to the App Store on your Apple TV and download the apps for the streaming services you subscribe to (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, Sling TV, Paramount+, ESPN+, Amazon Prime Video, NFL App).
3. Sign In: Open each app and sign in with your existing credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.
4. Start Streaming: Navigate to the live sports section of the app, find the NFL game you want to watch, and enjoy!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Buffering: This is often due to a slow internet connection. Try restarting your router and Apple TV.
• Blackouts: Some games may be blacked out in your local area. Confirm the blackout rules for your specific market.
• App Issues: Ensure the app is up-to-date. Try deleting and reinstalling the app if problems persist.

FAQs: Your Burning NFL on Apple TV Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about watching NFL games on Apple TV, ensuring you have all the bases covered.

1. Can I watch every NFL game on Apple TV?

No single service offers every NFL game. You’ll likely need a combination of services (e.g., YouTube TV for local channels and ESPN, plus Paramount+ for CBS games) to catch the maximum number of games.

2. Is there a free way to watch NFL games on Apple TV?

Legally, no. Free trials for streaming services are sometimes available, but they’re temporary. Over-the-air broadcasts are a viable free option, but you would need to connect an antenna to your TV directly, not through the Apple TV.

3. Does the NFL Game Pass still exist?

No, NFL Game Pass was replaced by NFL+ and the international version sold by DAZN. NFL+ primarily focuses on mobile viewing and replays in the US.

4. Do I need a cable subscription to watch NFL games on Apple TV?

No, that’s the beauty of streaming! Streaming services are designed to be cable replacements.

5. Can I use a VPN to bypass blackout restrictions?

While technically possible, using a VPN to bypass blackout restrictions is often against the terms of service of streaming providers and could result in account suspension.

6. How much data does streaming NFL games on Apple TV use?

Streaming in HD can use a significant amount of data, typically around 3-7 GB per hour. Be mindful of your data cap if you have one.

7. Can I record NFL games on Apple TV?

Many streaming services, like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, offer cloud DVR functionality, allowing you to record games for later viewing. Check your chosen service’s features.

8. What’s the best streaming service for NFL RedZone on Apple TV?

Sling TV (with the Sports Extra add-on), YouTube TV and Fubo all offer NFL RedZone.

9. Can I watch NFL Sunday Ticket on Apple TV?

As of the 2023 season, NFL Sunday Ticket is exclusively available on YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels. You can access it through the YouTube app on your Apple TV.

10. How do I find out which games are available on my local channels?

Check your local TV listings or use a TV guide app like TV Guide. Streaming service interfaces will also show you what’s available.

11. Is it better to stream via Wi-Fi or Ethernet on my Apple TV?

Ethernet generally provides a more stable and faster connection than Wi-Fi, which can improve streaming quality.

12. My Apple TV is older. Will the streaming apps still work?

Older Apple TV models might not support the latest versions of streaming apps. Check the app store or the streaming service’s website to confirm compatibility. You might need to upgrade to a newer Apple TV for optimal performance.

With this playbook in hand, you’re now equipped to enjoy every nail-biting moment of the NFL season on your Apple TV. Get ready to cheer!