NFL 2021 Season: Key Dates and Schedule
The NFL 2021 season promises to bring excitement and thrill to football fans across the globe. With a jam-packed schedule of games, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the key dates and matchups to ensure you don’t miss any of the action.
The season kicks off on September 9, 2021, with the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, hosting the Dallas Cowboys. This highly anticipated game sets the tone for the entire season, showcasing star players and intense competition. From this point on, every week brings a slate of games featuring the best teams and players in the league.
One of the standout dates on the NFL calendar is Thanksgiving Day. This year, November 25, 2021, will feature three exciting matchups: the Detroit Lions versus the Chicago Bears, the Dallas Cowboys versus the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Buffalo Bills versus the New Orleans Saints. Watching football on Thanksgiving has become a beloved tradition for many families, and these games definitely add to the festive spirit.
Another notable date is Christmas Day, which falls on a Saturday this year. The NFL has scheduled two games to be played on this special day: the Cleveland Browns against the Green Bay Packers and the Arizona Cardinals against the Indianapolis Colts. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than by enjoying some thrilling football action?
As the regular season winds down, the playoffs take center stage. The NFL playoffs are a single-elimination tournament that determines the conference champions and ultimately leads to the highly anticipated Super Bowl. The playoffs are scheduled to begin on January 15, 2022, and culminate with Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just enjoy watching the occasional game, staying informed about the key dates and schedule of the NFL 2021 season is essential. Make sure to mark your calendars and prepare for months of thrilling action, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable moments on the gridiron.
NFL Broadcasting Partners: Who Has the Rights to Broadcast the Games
The NFL has a robust broadcasting system in place to ensure that fans can catch all the action from every game. The league has entered into partnerships with various networks and streaming services, each having the rights to broadcast NFL games. Let’s take a closer look at the primary broadcasting partners for the 2021 season.
One of the longest-standing relationships is between the NFL and CBS. CBS holds the rights to televise the Sunday afternoon AFC games, including several marquee matchups throughout the season. Their coverage is known for its top-notch production values and expert commentary, making it a popular choice for football enthusiasts.
FOX is another major player in NFL broadcasting. They have the rights to broadcast the Sunday afternoon NFC games, featuring teams from the National Football Conference. FOX’s coverage is known for its dynamic presentation, innovative graphics, and the popular “FOX NFL Sunday” studio show, which provides in-depth analysis and highlights.
NBC is the exclusive broadcaster of Sunday Night Football. This primetime slot showcases some of the most anticipated games of the year, featuring top teams battling under the lights. NBC’s broadcast team, led by Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth, delivers exciting commentary and analysis, making Sunday nights a must-watch for football fans.
If you’re looking to catch the action on Thursday nights, you’ll want to tune in to NFL Network. NFL Network has the exclusive rights to broadcast a select number of Thursday Night Football games throughout the season. They also provide extensive coverage and analysis of all NFL games, making it a go-to channel for football aficionados.
In addition to the traditional broadcasters, streaming services have also secured the rights to stream NFL games. Two notable streaming partners are ESPN+ and Amazon Prime Video. ESPN+ offers a variety of exclusive NFL content, including live streaming of Monday Night Football games, while Amazon Prime Video provides access to a selection of Thursday Night Football games.
These broadcasting partners work in tandem to bring the NFL games to your screens, ensuring that you have multiple options for catching the action. Whether you prefer watching on traditional cable networks or streaming platforms, you can rest assured that there’s a broadcasting partner ready to deliver the excitement of the NFL right to your living room.
Cable TV Options for Watching NFL
If you’re a football fan looking to catch all the NFL action on your television, cable TV continues to be a reliable option. Many cable providers offer comprehensive sports packages that include channels broadcasting NFL games. Let’s explore some of the top cable TV options for watching the NFL.
One of the popular choices for NFL fans is the NFL Sunday Ticket package offered by DIRECTV. This exclusive package allows subscribers to access out-of-market games, providing an opportunity to watch matchups that may not be available in their local area. NFL Sunday Ticket also includes features like the Red Zone Channel, allowing you to catch all the key plays and touchdowns from multiple games simultaneously.
Another cable provider that caters to football enthusiasts is Comcast Xfinity with its X1 Sports App. This app provides a seamless experience for watching NFL games, offering a variety of ways to engage with the content. With the X1 Sports App, you can access live games, replays, highlights, and even personalized game recommendations based on your preferences.
For fans in select markets, cable provider Cox Communications offers the Cox Contour Sports Package. This package includes popular sports networks like ESPN, FOX Sports, and NFL Network. With NFL Network as part of the package, you can enjoy exclusive content, including live games, analysis, and in-depth coverage of the league.
If you’re looking for a wider selection of sports channels beyond just football, Spectrum Cable has you covered. Their cable TV packages offer a diverse range of sports networks, including ESPN, NFL Network, NBC Sports, and FOX Sports. With Spectrum Cable, you can enjoy comprehensive coverage of NFL games as well as other major sporting events.
These are just a few examples of the cable TV options available for watching NFL games. It’s important to note that availability and pricing may vary depending on your location and cable provider. To ensure you have access to the games you want to watch, it’s recommended to research the sports packages offered by your local cable providers and choose the one that best suits your viewing preferences.
By subscribing to a cable TV package with NFL coverage, you can enjoy the convenience of watching games on your television screen while taking advantage of additional features and channels that enhance your viewing experience.
Online Streaming Services for Watching NFL
Gone are the days when cable TV was the only option for watching NFL games. With the rise of online streaming services, football fans now have a plethora of choices to catch all the action from the comfort of their own devices. Let’s explore some of the top online streaming services for watching the NFL.
One of the most popular streaming services for NFL games is NFL Game Pass. With NFL Game Pass, you can stream every out-of-market regular-season game live or on-demand. This service also offers a variety of additional features, including condensed game replays, coach’s film, and access to the NFL Films archive. NFL Game Pass is available on multiple devices, allowing you to watch games anytime, anywhere.
Another streaming service that provides access to live NFL games is fuboTV. fuboTV offers a range of sports channels, including NFL Network, FOX, CBS, and NBC, depending on your region. With its cloud DVR feature, you can also record games to watch later. fuboTV is compatible with various devices, making it convenient for streaming games on your preferred screen.
If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can take advantage of Amazon’s streaming platform, Amazon Prime Video, to watch NFL games. Amazon has acquired the rights to broadcast select Thursday Night Football games. Subscribers to Amazon Prime Video can enjoy the games live, as well as access replays and additional NFL content.
ESPN+ is another streaming service that offers live streaming of NFL games. While ESPN+ primarily focuses on Monday Night Football, it occasionally streams additional games throughout the season. In addition to live games, ESPN+ also provides exclusive NFL shows, documentaries, and analysis.
For fans who want a complete streaming package for their sports needs, YouTube TV is a good option. YouTube TV offers live streaming of major sports networks, including ESPN, FOX Sports, NBC Sports, and CBS Sports. With YouTube TV, you can catch all the NFL games, as well as other sports events, with a single subscription.
These online streaming services provide flexibility and convenience for football fans, allowing them to stream NFL games on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers. Before subscribing to a streaming service, make sure to check the availability of local channels and NFL networks in your region to ensure you have access to the games you want to watch.
NFL Game Pass: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re a die-hard NFL fan looking for a comprehensive way to watch and immerse yourself in the games, NFL Game Pass is the ultimate solution. This streaming service offers a wide array of features and content that will enhance your NFL viewing experience. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about NFL Game Pass.
NFL Game Pass allows you to stream every out-of-market regular-season game live or on-demand. This means you’ll have access to all the games that are not being broadcasted in your local area. No more missing out on your favorite team’s games just because they aren’t being shown on TV.
One of the standout features of NFL Game Pass is the ability to watch condensed game replays. These condensed games are shortened versions that cut out the downtime between plays, allowing you to catch up on a game quickly. If you don’t have time to watch a full game, condensed replays are a great option to get all the key moments.
For those who crave more in-depth analysis and insights, NFL Game Pass offers the Coach’s Film feature. With Coach’s Film, you can view the games from different camera angles, including the All-22 angle that provides a comprehensive view of the entire field. This feature allows you to analyze player movements, formations, and strategies in detail.
In addition to the live games and replays, NFL Game Pass provides access to a vast archive of NFL Films content. You can dive into classic games, documentaries, interviews, and exclusive programming. Relive iconic moments, learn about the history of the league, and gain a deeper appreciation for the game.
NFL Game Pass is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. This gives you the freedom to watch games and content wherever and whenever you want. The service also offers multi-game viewing, allowing you to watch up to four games simultaneously on selected devices.
It’s important to note that NFL Game Pass does not include live streaming of playoff games or the Super Bowl. However, you will have access to the full replays of playoff games once they conclude. The service also offers international subscriptions, providing fans outside of the United States with the ability to watch live games and exclusive content.
To access NFL Game Pass, you will need to subscribe to the service, which offers different plans for regular season, postseason, and full-year access. The pricing may vary depending on your location and the type of subscription you choose.
If you’re a passionate football fan who wants complete control over your NFL viewing experience, NFL Game Pass is a must-have. With its extensive coverage, unique features, and archival content, NFL Game Pass ensures that you never miss a moment of the action and have access to the NFL like never before.
How to Stream NFL Games for Free
Streaming NFL games for free has become increasingly popular, allowing fans to watch their favorite teams and players without any additional cost. While free streaming options may not offer the same level of convenience and features as paid services, they can still provide access to live NFL games. Here are some ways to stream NFL games for free.
One of the most widely known options is utilizing free trials offered by paid streaming services. Platforms like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV often provide free trials to new subscribers. By signing up for these trials during the football season, you can take advantage of their coverage and watch NFL games without paying anything. Just make sure to cancel before the trial period ends if you don’t wish to continue with the subscription.
Another method is to use free, ad-supported streaming platforms. Several websites and apps offer live streaming of NFL games, supported by advertisements. These platforms usually require you to create a free account and may have limitations such as lower video quality or delayed streaming. It’s worth exploring these options to see if they provide access to the games you want to watch.
Social media platforms have also become a source for streaming NFL games. In recent years, certain games have been livestreamed on platforms like Twitter and Facebook. While the selection may be limited, keeping an eye on official NFL social media accounts and relevant hashtags can help you discover opportunities to stream games for free.
Additionally, some local TV stations and regional sports networks offer live streaming of NFL games on their official websites or mobile apps. This option is particularly useful if you live in the market of your favorite team and have access to a local station’s live stream. It’s worth checking the websites and apps of your local stations to see if they offer free streaming options.
An important point to remember when streaming NFL games for free is to be cautious of unofficial and pirated streams. While these streams may offer access to games at no cost, they are often illegal and of poor quality. Furthermore, they can pose a security risk to your devices. It’s recommended to stick to legal streaming options to ensure a safe and reliable viewing experience.
Streaming NFL games for free allows fans on a budget to enjoy the excitement without breaking the bank. While these options may have limitations, they offer a way to catch live games and support your favorite teams without incurring additional costs. Be sure to explore the available options to find the best free streaming method for you.
Watching NFL Games on Mobile Devices
In today’s digital age, watching NFL games on mobile devices has become increasingly popular and convenient. With the rise of streaming services and dedicated apps, football fans can catch all the action right on their smartphones or tablets. Let’s explore how you can watch NFL games on mobile devices.
One of the primary ways to watch NFL games on mobile devices is through official streaming apps. The NFL has its own official app called “NFL Mobile,” which allows users to stream live games, access highlights, and follow their favorite teams. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides a seamless viewing experience on the go.
Many cable TV providers also have their own apps that allow users to stream NFL games on mobile devices. By downloading the app associated with your cable provider, you can access live TV and watch the games as they happen. This option is especially useful if you have a cable subscription and want to watch the games on multiple devices.
Some streaming services also offer dedicated apps for mobile devices. Platforms like fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV provide robust apps that allow you to stream live NFL games on your smartphone or tablet. These apps not only give you access to the games but also offer additional features like on-demand content and personalized recommendations.
Another option for mobile viewing is through the mobile apps of major TV networks. Networks like ESPN, FOX Sports, NBC Sports, and CBS Sports have their respective apps that offer live streaming of NFL games. By downloading these apps, you can catch the games broadcasted by these networks directly on your mobile device.
It’s important to note that to fully enjoy streaming NFL games on mobile devices, a stable internet connection is crucial. Wi-Fi or a reliable cellular data connection is necessary for smooth and uninterrupted streaming. It’s also recommended to have a fully charged device or access to a power source to ensure that you don’t miss any of the action.
Watching NFL games on mobile devices provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to enjoy football wherever you are. Whether you’re at home, traveling, or on the move, having access to the games on your smartphone or tablet ensures that you never have to miss a play.
With the availability of official NFL apps, cable provider apps, streaming service apps, and network apps, football fans have a plethora of options for mobile viewing. Simply download the desired app, sign in with your credentials, and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of NFL football on your mobile device.
How to Watch Out-of-Market NFL Games
If you’re a fan of an NFL team that is located outside of your local market, watching their games can be challenging. However, there are several options available that allow you to watch out-of-market NFL games and stay connected with your favorite team. Here are some ways to watch out-of-market NFL games.
One of the most popular options is NFL Sunday Ticket. Offered by DIRECTV, NFL Sunday Ticket provides access to out-of-market games every Sunday. This service allows you to watch games that are not available in your local TV market, ensuring that you don’t miss any action from your favorite team. NFL Sunday Ticket is available as a standalone package or as an add-on to your existing DIRECTV subscription.
If you prefer a streaming option, NFL Game Pass is a great choice. NFL Game Pass allows you to watch every out-of-market game live or on-demand. This means that regardless of where you are, you can catch your team’s games in real-time or watch the replays at a later time. NFL Game Pass is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Another alternative is to consider a streaming service that includes local and out-of-market channels. Services like fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV offer packages that include major broadcast networks as well as regional sports networks. By subscribing to these services, you can access both local and out-of-market NFL games, giving you comprehensive coverage of your favorite team.
If you’re on a budget or looking for free options, consider utilizing free trials of streaming services. Many streaming platforms offer free trials, and during the trial period, you can watch out-of-market games without any additional cost. Just be sure to cancel the trial before it converts to a paid subscription if you don’t wish to continue with the service.
Alternatively, you can check if streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video or ESPN+ offer out-of-market games as part of their subscription or through additional packages. These platforms occasionally secure the rights to stream select NFL games, giving you an opportunity to watch your team play, even if you’re outside their market.
It’s important to note that availability and options for watching out-of-market NFL games may vary depending on your location and the specific streaming services or broadcast agreements in place. Researching and exploring the available options will help you find the best solution to watch your team’s games, no matter where they’re playing.
With the advancements in technology and the variety of streaming services and packages available, watching out-of-market NFL games is more accessible than ever before. Whether you opt for NFL Sunday Ticket, NFL Game Pass, streaming services, or free trials, these options ensure that you can stay connected to your favorite team and enjoy all the excitement of the NFL season.
Watching NFL Games Outside of the United States
NFL fans outside of the United States who want to watch their favorite teams and players in action have several options to catch NFL games. Whether you’re residing in another country or traveling abroad, here are some ways to watch NFL games outside of the United States.
One of the most accessible options is NFL Game Pass International. This streaming service allows fans around the world to watch every out-of-market NFL game live or on-demand. NFL Game Pass International offers the same features as its U.S. counterpart, including condensed game replays, coach’s film, and access to the NFL Films archive. With its multi-device compatibility, you can enjoy games on your smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or computer, providing flexibility and convenience wherever you are.
Another option is to check if any local or international sports networks in your region have acquired the rights to broadcast NFL games. These networks often sign agreements with the NFL to air selected games, including primetime matchups and marquee contests. Researching the sports networks in your country or region will give you an idea of where and when NFL games are being broadcasted.
Certain streaming platforms, such as fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV, are expanding their services internationally. Subscribing to these streaming services can provide access to live NFL games as well as other sports and entertainment content. However, availability may vary depending on your location and the licensing agreements in place.
Some countries have their own local broadcasters that secure the rights to NFL games. These broadcasters typically offer live coverage of select games, as well as highlights and analysis. Check with the local networks in your country to see if they are broadcasting NFL games and how you can access their coverage.
It’s worth noting that the availability and options for watching NFL games outside of the United States may vary depending on your country and the specific streaming services or broadcasting agreements in place. It’s recommended to research the options accessible to you in your region to ensure you can stay connected with the NFL action.
In addition to these options, various social media platforms and official NFL channels provide highlights, clips, and live updates on NFL games. Following the NFL’s official social media accounts, as well as your favorite teams and players, is a great way to stay updated and catch key moments from the games.
Watching NFL games outside of the United States allows fans across the globe to experience the excitement and drama of American football. Whether through international streaming services, local broadcasters, or official NFL channels, staying connected to the NFL action is possible no matter where you are.
Tips for Enhancing Your NFL Viewing Experience
Watching NFL games is an exhilarating experience that brings fans together to cheer for their favorite teams. If you want to make the most out of your NFL viewing experience and create lasting memories, here are some tips to enhance your enjoyment:
1. Create a Game Day Atmosphere: Set the mood by recreating the game day atmosphere at home. Wear your team’s colors, decorate your living room with team memorabilia, and prepare snacks and drinks to enjoy during the game. Immerse yourself in the excitement and feel like you’re right there in the stadium.
2. Engage with Fellow Fans: Whether you’re watching with friends or interacting with fellow fans online, engaging with others who share your passion for the game can amplify the excitement. Join fan forums, participate in discussions and debates, and celebrate or commiserate with others as the game unfolds. It’s a fantastic way to enhance your connection to the game.
3. Learn the Rules and Strategies: Familiarize yourself with the rules and strategies of football to gain a deeper understanding of the game. Knowing the intricacies will allow you to appreciate the skill and technique displayed by players and coaches. Various online resources and NFL guides can help you grasp the fundamentals and expand your knowledge.
4. Follow Pre-Game Analysis: Tune in to pre-game shows and analysis to get insights from expert pundits and former players. Understanding the pre-game narratives, key player matchups, and strategic game plans adds another layer of excitement and helps you appreciate the game on a deeper level.
5. Embrace Fantasy Football: If you’re a fantasy football enthusiast, create or join a league to add an extra dimension to your game-watching experience. Drafting players, setting lineups, and monitoring your team’s performance adds a level of personal investment and excitement to every game.
6. Emotionally Connect with the Players: Learning about the journeys, stories, and backgrounds of the players can create a deeper emotional connection and make every play more impactful. Follow player interviews, documentaries, and articles to understand the human side of the game, which can enhance your overall viewing experience.
7. Appreciate the Broadcast Production: Take a moment to appreciate the impressive broadcast production of NFL games. Pay attention to the camera angles, replays, graphics, and commentary that add depth and insight to the game. These elements contribute to the overall storytelling and make the viewing experience more engaging.
8. Participate in Game-Day Traditions: Football is rich in traditions. Whether it’s performing a team chant, wearing a specific lucky jersey, or doing a pre-game ritual, embracing and participating in game-day traditions can make you feel like an integral part of the game and add an extra layer of excitement.
9. Stay Updated with NFL News: Keep yourself updated on the latest NFL news, roster changes, and injury updates. Being aware of the current state of teams and players can provide valuable context while watching the games and allow for more informed discussions with fellow fans.
10. Enjoy the Journey: Above all, remember to enjoy the journey of each game. Win or lose, cherish the moments, the highs, and the lows. Football is an unpredictable, emotional rollercoaster, and embracing every twist and turn will make the experience all the more memorable.
By following these tips, you can enhance your NFL viewing experience and create lasting memories as you immerse yourself in the thrilling world of football.
