The NFL preseason is upon us, and with it comes the challenge of finding the games that will surely keep football fans entertained. The official start of the NFL preseason begins tonight, marking the end of the Hall of Fame game and the beginning of a week filled with exciting matchups. However, with the recent acquisition of the NFL Network by ESPN, viewers might be left wondering where and how to watch these games. The good news is that there are multiple options available, and I'm here to guide you through them. The key is to understand the different platforms and their offerings to ensure you don't miss out on any of the action. The NFL preseason is a great opportunity to catch up on the upcoming season and get a glimpse of the teams' strategies and player performances. So, let's dive into the schedule and explore the best ways to watch the Week 1 games.
The Confusing Schedule
The NFL.com schedule only mentions the games televised by the NFL Network, which can be a bit confusing for those looking for more options. On the other hand, the ESPN version of the schedule includes the games that will be live-streamed on the ESPN App, providing a more comprehensive view of the Week 1 matchups. It's important to note that all preseason games will eventually be re-aired on the NFL Network, ensuring that fans can catch up on any games they might have missed. The key is to plan ahead and choose the right platform for your viewing pleasure.
Thursday Night Football
On Thursday, the action kicks off with the Packers-Steelers game at 7:00 p.m. ET on the NFL Network. This highly anticipated matchup will surely be a thrilling start to the preseason. Following that, at 8:00 p.m. ET, the Cardinals-Raiders game will stream live on the ESPN App, offering another exciting contest. The overlap between these games might cause some tension, but it's a small price to pay for the entertainment. The Titans-49ers game, another highly anticipated matchup, will be carried by the NFL Network at 9:00 p.m. ET, providing a double dose of football for fans.
Friday Night Lights
Friday night brings more excitement with the Broncos-Falcons game at 7:00 p.m. ET on the ESPN App. Simultaneously, the Buccaneers-Jets game will be shown by the NFL Network, giving fans a choice of platforms to enjoy the action. The competition between these games might be intense, but it's a testament to the depth of talent in the NFL.
Saturday's Showdown
Saturday's schedule features a doubleheader with the Browns-Bears game at 1:00 p.m. ET on the NFL Network and the Vikings-Giants game at the same time on the ESPN App. This provides fans with a choice of platforms to watch these crucial matchups. The Rams-Chiefs game at 4:00 p.m. ET on the NFL Network and the Jaguars-Saints game on the ESPN App will further fuel the excitement, offering a variety of options for fans to enjoy.
Eagles and Cowboys Face Off
The Eagles-Ravens game at 7:00 p.m. ET on the ESPN App and the Cowboys-Seahawks game at 8:00 p.m. ET on the NFL Network will be the highlight of Saturday's schedule. These matchups will surely provide a thrilling end to the weekend, leaving fans eager for more.
Out-of-Market Coverage
For fans outside the local markets, the NFL+ service is the ultimate solution. It offers live coverage of all out-of-market preseason games, ensuring that no fan is left behind. This service is a game-changer for those who want to stay up-to-date with the NFL action, no matter their location.
In conclusion, the NFL preseason is a time of anticipation and excitement, and with the right platforms and services, fans can enjoy the games without any hassle. The key is to plan ahead and choose the options that best suit their preferences. So, mark your calendars, grab your snacks, and get ready for a week filled with thrilling football action!
