Can You Watch the NFL Network on YouTube TV? Decoding the Gridiron on Streaming

The burning question for any serious football fan cutting the cord: Can you watch the NFL Network on YouTube TV? The answer is a resounding, albeit nuanced, yes. YouTube TV does offer the NFL Network as part of its base package. This means access to a hefty dose of NFL-centric programming, including game replays, analysis, and the beloved NFL RedZone (more on that in a moment). However, understanding the specifics of what you get and how it fits into the broader streaming landscape is crucial.

Unpacking the YouTube TV NFL Experience

YouTube TV has established itself as a major player in the live TV streaming arena, largely due to its comprehensive channel lineup and user-friendly interface. The inclusion of the NFL Network is a significant draw for sports enthusiasts. But simply knowing it’s “there” isn’t enough. Let’s delve into what this really entails.

The NFL Network: What to Expect

The NFL Network isn’t just about showing old games. It’s a 24/7 hub for all things NFL. You’ll find:

• Live Pre-game and Post-game Coverage: Get the inside scoop before and after every game.
• NFL Game Replays: Relive the best moments (or analyze the missed opportunities).
• NFL Total Access: A daily show bringing you the latest news, highlights, and interviews.
• NFL Films Presents: Award-winning documentaries that explore the history and culture of football.
• Exclusive Interviews: Hear directly from players, coaches, and analysts.
• Draft Coverage: Comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, from scouting reports to live selections.

The NFL RedZone Question

This is where things get even more exciting (and slightly more complicated). While the NFL Network is included in YouTube TV’s base plan, the holy grail for many fans is NFL RedZone. This channel provides whip-around coverage of every NFL game on Sundays, showing you every touchdown as it happens.

NFL RedZone is available on YouTube TV, but it requires an additional Sports Plus add-on. This add-on gives you access to not only RedZone but also other sports channels, such as beIN SPORTS, Fox Soccer Plus, and more. Consider it an investment in maximizing your NFL viewing pleasure.

Regional Blackouts and Game Availability

It’s important to remember that even with the NFL Network and RedZone, regional blackouts can still occur. These blackouts are dictated by the NFL and are designed to protect local broadcast rights. While YouTube TV provides access to local channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC), which often broadcast NFL games, you may still encounter blackouts depending on your location and the specific game.

Additionally, while the NFL Network carries some live games, it’s not a substitute for a comprehensive broadcast package. You’ll still need to rely on your local channels and potentially other streaming services (like Amazon Prime Video for Thursday Night Football) to catch all the games you want to see.

YouTube TV and NFL: A Winning Combination?

Ultimately, the value of YouTube TV for NFL fans depends on individual viewing habits and priorities. If you’re looking for a comprehensive and affordable way to stay connected to the NFL year-round, YouTube TV is a strong contender. The inclusion of the NFL Network, combined with the option to add NFL RedZone, provides a robust platform for following your favorite team and the league as a whole. Just be mindful of regional blackouts and the need for additional services to cover all your bases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions that delve deeper into watching the NFL Network and related NFL content on YouTube TV:

1. How much does the YouTube TV Sports Plus add-on cost?

The Sports Plus add-on price fluctuates slightly, but it generally costs around $10.99 per month. It’s always best to check the YouTube TV website for the most up-to-date pricing. This is in addition to the base YouTube TV subscription cost.

2. Can I watch the NFL Network on demand with YouTube TV?

Yes, YouTube TV offers on-demand content from the NFL Network. You can typically find episodes of shows like NFL Total Access, NFL GameDay, and NFL Films Presents available for streaming after they air live. This is a great way to catch up on content you might have missed.

3. Does YouTube TV offer a free trial for the Sports Plus add-on?

YouTube TV occasionally offers free trials for add-ons like Sports Plus. Check the YouTube TV website or app to see if a free trial is currently available. This is an excellent way to test out NFL RedZone and the other sports channels before committing to a monthly subscription.

4. Are there any other ways to watch NFL RedZone without the Sports Plus add-on on YouTube TV?

Unfortunately, no. The Sports Plus add-on is the only way to get NFL RedZone on YouTube TV. If RedZone is a must-have for you, factoring in the cost of this add-on is crucial.

5. Can I record NFL Network programs on YouTube TV’s DVR?

Absolutely! YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage, meaning you can record as many NFL Network programs as you want. This is a huge advantage over traditional cable or satellite providers with limited DVR capacity.

6. Can I watch the NFL Network and NFL RedZone on multiple devices simultaneously with YouTube TV?

Yes, YouTube TV allows you to stream on multiple devices simultaneously. The exact number of concurrent streams depends on your subscription plan, but it’s generally sufficient for most households. This means you can watch the NFL Network on your TV while someone else watches RedZone on a tablet or phone.

7. How does YouTube TV compare to other streaming services for watching the NFL?

YouTube TV stacks up well against other streaming services that offer the NFL Network and NFL RedZone. Sling TV (with its Sling Blue package and Sports Extra add-on) is another option, but YouTube TV generally offers a more comprehensive base channel lineup. Consider comparing channel lineups, pricing, and DVR capabilities to determine which service best fits your needs.

8. Will I be able to watch every NFL game with YouTube TV and the Sports Plus add-on?

No, not every game. As mentioned earlier, regional blackouts can still affect your ability to watch certain games. Plus, some games are exclusively broadcast on other streaming services like Amazon Prime Video (Thursday Night Football). YouTube TV provides a large amount of games, but you might need other services to see every game.

9. Can I cancel the Sports Plus add-on at any time?

Yes, you can cancel the Sports Plus add-on at any time. There are no long-term contracts or cancellation fees. This flexibility is a significant benefit of streaming services like YouTube TV.

10. Does YouTube TV offer 4K streaming for NFL games on the NFL Network?

Currently, YouTube TV’s 4K streaming capabilities are limited, and not all NFL Network content is available in 4K. While they are working on expanding 4K support, don’t expect every game or show to be in ultra-high definition just yet.

11. Is there any student discount available for YouTube TV?

YouTube TV discontinued its student discount program. Students will need to pay the regular subscription price.

12. How can I find out which NFL games are being broadcast on my local channels via YouTube TV?

You can check your local channel listings within the YouTube TV app or website. Additionally, websites like 506sports.com provide detailed broadcast schedules, including which games are airing on which local channels. Using both resources will ensure you don’t miss any of the action.