NFL Preseason TV Schedule: How To Watch The Games

Hey football fans! Are you ready for some gridiron action? The NFL preseason is the perfect appetizer before the main course of the regular season. It's a chance to see rookies in action, watch veterans fine-tune their skills, and get a sneak peek at what your favorite team might look like this year. But with so many games happening, it can be tough to keep track of when and where to watch. That's where this guide to the NFL preseason TV schedule comes in handy! We're going to break down everything you need to know to catch all the action, so you don't miss a single snap.

Why Watch the NFL Preseason?

Before we dive into the schedule, let's talk about why the preseason is worth watching. Some fans might dismiss it as "meaningless football," but there are actually several compelling reasons to tune in. Firstly, the NFL preseason games offer a crucial opportunity for teams to evaluate their roster depth and identify potential starters. Coaches use these games to test different player combinations, experiment with play calls, and assess the overall performance of their squad. It's like a live audition for players vying for a spot on the final 53-man roster. Secondly, if you are a fan of player development, the NFL preseason is the perfect time to see how rookies and undrafted free agents are adapting to the NFL level. These games provide valuable game experience for young players and allow them to showcase their talent against NFL competition. Keep an eye out for those hidden gems who could become future stars! Thirdly, preseason games are also a chance to see your favorite veterans in action and get a glimpse of their offseason progress. While starters typically don't play a full game, you'll still get to see them run some plays and get back into game shape. It's a good way to gauge their readiness for the regular season. Fourthly, the preseason offers a less intense atmosphere compared to the regular season, with lower ticket prices and a more relaxed fan experience. It's a great way to enjoy the thrill of NFL football without the high stakes of regular-season games. Lastly, let's be honest, football is football! Even if the games don't count towards the standings, they're still entertaining to watch. There are always exciting plays, hard hits, and dramatic moments that make the preseason worth tuning into. So, don't let the "meaningless" label fool you; there's plenty of good football to be seen in the preseason.

How to Find the NFL Preseason TV Schedule

Okay, you're convinced the preseason is worth watching. Now, how do you find the NFL preseason schedule? Thankfully, there are several easy ways to stay up-to-date. The most reliable source is the official NFL website (NFL.com). They have a dedicated section for the preseason schedule, which is updated regularly with game times, TV channels, and streaming options. You can also find the schedule on the websites of major sports networks like ESPN, NFL Network, and CBS Sports. These sites often have in-depth coverage of the preseason, including game previews, recaps, and analysis. Another great way to find the schedule is through your TV provider's website or app. Most providers have a TV guide that lists all the upcoming NFL games, including preseason matchups. You can usually filter by sport, team, or channel to find exactly what you're looking for. Social media is also a valuable tool for tracking the NFL preseason TV schedule. Follow the official NFL accounts, team accounts, and sports news outlets on platforms like Twitter and Facebook. They will often post schedule updates, game reminders, and breaking news. Don't forget about sports apps! Apps like ESPN, TheScore, and Bleacher Report provide real-time scores, news, and schedules for all NFL games, including the preseason. You can customize your notifications to receive alerts for your favorite team's games. If you're a traditionalist, you can still find the preseason schedule in print! Many newspapers and sports magazines publish the full NFL schedule, including preseason games. Check your local listings or pick up a copy of a major sports publication. By using a combination of these resources, you'll be sure to stay on top of the NFL preseason schedule and catch all the games you want to see.

Key Games to Watch in the NFL Preseason

While every preseason game offers a chance to see some football action, some matchups are more intriguing than others. These key NFL preseason games often feature interesting storylines, exciting player matchups, or potential playoff previews. One type of game to watch is any matchup featuring two teams with high expectations for the upcoming season. These games can provide an early glimpse of how these teams stack up against each other and whether they're living up to the hype. For example, if two Super Bowl contenders face off in the preseason, it's a chance to see their starters get some reps and assess their overall team chemistry. Another intriguing matchup is any game featuring a highly touted rookie quarterback making their NFL debut. Fans are always eager to see how the top draft picks perform in their first NFL action. These games can provide valuable insights into a rookie's potential and whether they're ready to lead their team. Additionally, keep an eye out for games featuring teams with new head coaches or significant roster changes. These games offer a chance to see how the new coaching staff is implementing their schemes and how the new players are fitting into the team. It's like getting a sneak peek at the team's identity for the upcoming season. Furthermore, division rivalry games, even in the preseason, tend to be more competitive and intense. These games can provide a good test for both teams and a chance to build momentum heading into the regular season. The atmosphere is often more charged than in other preseason games. Moreover, don't overlook the Hall of Fame Game, which traditionally kicks off the NFL preseason. This game is a celebration of football and features two teams with connections to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It's a fun way to start the preseason and honor some of the game's legends. Lastly, games that serve as potential playoff previews can offer a sneak peek at future matchups. If two teams that are expected to contend for a playoff spot face off in the preseason, it's a chance to see how they match up and potentially scout their opponents. By paying attention to these key preseason games, you can get a better sense of the NFL landscape and prepare for the excitement of the regular season.

How to Stream NFL Preseason Games

In today's world, streaming is a crucial part of watching sports. The ability to stream NFL preseason games allows fans to catch the action on their phones, tablets, laptops, or smart TVs, no matter where they are. So, how can you stream the NFL preseason? One of the most straightforward ways is through the NFL's own streaming service, NFL+. NFL+ offers live streams of all preseason games, as well as live local and primetime regular-season games on your mobile devices. It's a great option for fans who want to watch games on the go. Another popular option is to use a live TV streaming service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, or FuboTV. These services offer a variety of channels, including ESPN, NFL Network, and the major broadcast networks (CBS, NBC, Fox), which typically carry NFL preseason games. They often have free trial periods, so you can test them out before committing to a subscription. If you're a subscriber to a traditional cable or satellite TV provider, you may be able to stream NFL preseason games through your provider's app or website. Many providers offer streaming options as part of their packages, allowing you to watch games on your devices. This is a convenient way to watch if you already have a cable or satellite subscription. For fans who want to watch games on their smart TVs, there are several options available. Most smart TVs have apps for the major streaming services, like NFL+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and others. You can also use streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or Apple TV to access these apps. Additionally, social media platforms like Twitter and Twitch sometimes stream NFL preseason games or offer live coverage and analysis. Keep an eye on these platforms for potential streaming opportunities. Certain teams may also offer their own streaming options for preseason games, either through their websites or team-specific apps. Check your favorite team's website for information on how to watch their preseason games. By exploring these different streaming options, you can ensure you don't miss a single moment of NFL preseason action, no matter where you are.

Tips for Enjoying the NFL Preseason

Watching the NFL preseason can be a lot of fun, but it's also different from the regular season. To make the most of your preseason viewing experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, remember that the preseason is primarily about player evaluation, not winning games. Coaches are using these games to assess their roster, try out different combinations, and give young players opportunities. So, don't get too caught up in the score or the outcome of the game. Focus on individual performances and the overall development of the team. It's a time to see who is stepping up and making a case for a roster spot. Secondly, pay close attention to the rookies and undrafted free agents. These players are often fighting for their NFL lives, and the preseason is their chance to shine. Watch for their athleticism, technique, and how quickly they're adapting to the NFL level. You might just see the next hidden gem emerge during the preseason. Thirdly, don't expect to see the starters play a full game. Typically, starters will play for a quarter or two, or sometimes even less, in the preseason. This is to minimize the risk of injury and give them a chance to get back into game shape without overexerting themselves. Use this time to observe the backup players and see how they perform under pressure. Fourthly, be aware that preseason games can be unpredictable. There are often lots of penalties, turnovers, and sloppy play, as teams are still working out the kinks. Don't be surprised if you see some unusual plays or unexpected outcomes. This is part of the charm of the preseason. Fifthly, use the preseason as an opportunity to scout your fantasy football team. Pay attention to which players are getting the most reps, who is making big plays, and who seems to have good chemistry with the quarterback. This can give you valuable insights when it's time to draft your fantasy team. Lastly, remember to have fun! The NFL preseason is a great way to get your football fix and build excitement for the regular season. Relax, enjoy the games, and appreciate the opportunity to see some live NFL action. By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be sure to have a positive and enjoyable preseason viewing experience.

So, there you have it! Your ultimate guide to the NFL preseason TV schedule. With this information, you'll be well-equipped to catch all the games, follow your favorite teams, and get ready for another exciting NFL season. Now, grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the football!