How to watch Monday night football 2023?

Get ready for the 2025-26 NFL season! This guide breaks down precisely how to watch every thrilling moment of Monday Night Football, ensuring you don't miss a single touchdown, interception, or game-changing play. We'll cover all the official broadcasters, streaming options, and essential tips for fans.

Monday Night Football Schedule 2025-26: What to Expect

The 2025-26 NFL season promises another exciting slate of Monday Night Football games. While the official, game-by-game schedule is typically released in the spring, we can anticipate a consistent pattern of high-stakes matchups featuring prominent teams and star players. Historically, ESPN has been the primary home for Monday Night Football, broadcasting a significant portion of the games. However, the landscape has evolved, with ABC also playing a role in airing select primetime contests. For the 2025-26 season, expect a robust schedule that will captivate football fans across the nation. The league aims to balance divisional rivalries, inter-conference clashes, and marquee matchups that generate significant buzz. Early-season games often set the tone for the entire season, while late-season contests can have major playoff implications. Understanding the general timeframe and broadcast partners is the first step to ensuring you're ready for kickoff.

Key Dates and Times

Monday Night Football games typically kick off at 8:15 PM ET. While exceptions can occur for special events or international games, this remains the standard start time. The NFL season generally begins in early September and runs through early January, with Monday Night Football games interspersed throughout the regular season. Playoff games on Monday nights are less common but can happen in the Wild Card or Divisional rounds, usually in mid-to-late January. Fans should mark their calendars for the official schedule release, usually in April or May of 2025, to plan their viewing around specific matchups. The anticipation builds as teams are announced, and the narrative for the season begins to unfold.

Anticipated Matchups and Storylines

While specific matchups are yet to be revealed, we can look at recent trends and team performance to anticipate some potential barnburners. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills, and Dallas Cowboys are perennial contenders and are highly likely to feature in prominent primetime slots, including Monday Night Football. Rivalries such as the Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears, or the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens, are always fan favorites and often scheduled for national broadcasts. Furthermore, the emergence of new stars and compelling team narratives can lead to unexpected matchups gaining Monday Night Football status. Keep an eye on teams with exciting young quarterbacks or strong defensive units, as these often make for compelling television. The storylines surrounding these games – playoff races, revenge games, historic rivalries – are what make Monday Night Football a weekly event.

Official Broadcasters: Where to Tune In

For the 2025-26 NFL season, the primary broadcast home for Monday Night Football remains ESPN, with select games also airing on ABC. This dual-network approach offers multiple avenues for viewers to catch the action, depending on their subscription and viewing preferences. Understanding which network is airing which game is crucial for planning your viewing experience.

ESPN: The Home of Monday Night Football

ESPN has been synonymous with Monday Night Football for decades, and its commitment continues. The vast majority of Monday Night Football games will be broadcast on ESPN. This includes the full regular-season slate. ESPN is available through traditional cable packages, satellite TV subscriptions, and various live TV streaming services. If you have a cable subscription that includes ESPN, you're all set to watch most of the Monday Night Football games. The broadcast typically features a dedicated crew of announcers, analysts, and sideline reporters who provide in-depth coverage before, during, and after the game. Their pre-game shows often begin hours before kickoff, offering analysis, predictions, and behind-the-scenes insights. The post-game shows dissect the game's key moments and look ahead to the following week.

ABC: Select Primetime Showcases

In recent seasons, ABC has also become a partner for Monday Night Football, airing a select number of high-profile games. This often includes major rivalry games, playoff contests, or matchups featuring particularly popular teams. The inclusion of ABC broadens the reach of Monday Night Football, making it accessible to households that might not subscribe to ESPN but do have ABC as part of their broadcast television package. If a game is airing on ABC, it can typically be accessed over-the-air with a digital antenna, as well as through cable and live TV streaming services that carry ABC. The broadcast on ABC often mirrors the ESPN presentation, ensuring a consistent viewing experience for fans, though sometimes with slightly different commentator pairings or supplementary programming.

Determining Which Network Airs Which Game

The official NFL schedule, released in the spring, will clearly indicate whether a specific Monday Night Football game is airing on ESPN or ABC. This information will be readily available on the NFL's official website, ESPN's website, and through sports news outlets. For those who follow the league closely, keeping an eye on these announcements is essential. Many live TV streaming services also provide network-specific schedules, allowing you to check which channel will be broadcasting the game on any given Monday night. It's also worth noting that some games might be simulcast across both networks, especially during significant events or holidays, though this is less common for the standard weekly slate.

Streaming Monday Night Football Live

For cord-cutters and those who prefer digital access, numerous streaming options allow you to watch Monday Night Football live in 2025-26. These services provide flexibility and often a more customizable viewing experience, allowing you to watch on various devices.

Live TV Streaming Services

Several live TV streaming services offer packages that include ESPN and ABC, making them ideal for watching Monday Night Football. These services typically operate on a monthly subscription model and can be canceled at any time. Popular options include:

• Sling TV: Sling offers different channel packages. The "Sling Orange" package includes ESPN, and depending on your region, you may be able to get ABC. Sling Blue often includes local channels like ABC. Combining these or choosing a more comprehensive package can provide access to both networks.
• Hulu + Live TV: This service is a strong contender, as it includes ESPN and ABC in its base package, along with a vast library of on-demand content and the Hulu streaming service itself. This makes it a comprehensive entertainment solution.
• YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers a robust lineup of channels, including ESPN and ABC, in its single package. It also provides unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record games and watch them later.
• FuboTV: While FuboTV initially focused on sports, it has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of channels, including ESPN and ABC, making it a viable option for Monday Night Football fans.
• DirecTV Stream: This service offers several tiers of packages, with the higher tiers including both ESPN and ABC. It aims to provide a more traditional TV experience with the flexibility of streaming.

When choosing a live TV streaming service, always verify that the specific package you select includes both ESPN and ABC in your local viewing area. Most services offer free trials, allowing you to test them out before committing to a subscription.

ESPN App and ESPN+

The ESPN app is a critical tool for sports fans. If you have a cable or live TV streaming subscription that includes ESPN, you can log in to the ESPN app using your provider credentials to stream Monday Night Football live. This allows you to watch games on your smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. Additionally, ESPN+ offers a wealth of sports content, but it's important to note that live Monday Night Football games are generally not exclusive to ESPN+ itself; they are streamed through the ESPN app via authentication with a participating TV provider. However, ESPN+ does offer other NFL-related content, including documentaries and analysis shows.

ABC App and ABC.com

Similar to ESPN, ABC often allows viewers to stream content live through its own app or website. If a Monday Night Football game is airing on ABC, you can typically authenticate with your cable or live TV streaming provider credentials to watch it live. This is a convenient option for those who want to watch the ABC broadcast specifically, especially if they have a subscription that includes ABC but perhaps not ESPN, or if they prefer the ABC broadcast team.

Subscription Requirements and Geo-Restrictions

It's crucial to understand that most live streaming options for Monday Night Football require a paid subscription. Free streaming of these games is generally not available through official channels, and unofficial streams are often unreliable, low-quality, and may carry legal risks. Furthermore, live TV streaming services often have geo-restrictions, meaning the available channels, including local ABC affiliates, can vary depending on your geographical location. Ensure the service you choose is available and provides the correct local channels in your area.

Cable vs. Streaming: Making the Right Choice

The decision between a traditional cable subscription and a live TV streaming service for watching Monday Night Football in 2025-26 depends on your individual viewing habits, budget, and technical preferences. Both options have their distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Traditional Cable Packages

Pros:

• Reliability: Cable signals are generally very stable and are not dependent on your home internet connection's speed or reliability.
• Simplicity: For many, cable is a familiar and straightforward service.
• Channel Availability: Cable packages often include a wide array of channels, ensuring access to ESPN and ABC, along with many other sports and entertainment options.
• DVR Functionality: Most cable boxes come with built-in DVR capabilities, allowing you to record games easily.

Cons:

• Cost: Cable subscriptions can be expensive, and prices often increase over time.
• Contracts: Many cable providers require long-term contracts, which can be restrictive.
• Equipment Fees: Additional fees for cable boxes and equipment can add to the overall cost.
• Limited Flexibility: Cable is tied to a physical location; you can't easily take it with you on the go.

Live TV Streaming Services

Pros:

• Flexibility and Mobility: Stream on various devices (smart TVs, phones, tablets, computers) anywhere with an internet connection.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Often more affordable than comparable cable packages, especially if you only need a select number of channels.
• No Long-Term Contracts: Most services offer month-to-month subscriptions that can be canceled anytime.
• Cloud DVR: Many services offer cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record and watch content on demand.
• Bundling Options: Some services offer bundles with other streaming platforms (e.g., Hulu + Live TV with Disney+ and ESPN+).

Cons:

• Internet Dependency: Requires a stable and reasonably fast internet connection. Buffering or dropped connections can occur if your internet is unreliable.
• Local Channel Availability: Access to local channels like ABC can vary by location and provider.
• User Interface Differences: The interface and user experience can differ significantly between services, requiring some adjustment.
• Potential for Price Increases: While often cheaper initially, streaming service prices can also increase over time.

Making the Decision

Consider the following questions:

• What is your budget? Compare the monthly costs of cable packages versus streaming services, factoring in equipment and potential hidden fees.
• How important is flexibility? If you travel or want to watch games on multiple devices, streaming is likely the better choice.
• What is your internet situation? If you have a slow or unreliable internet connection, cable might be more dependable.
• Do you need other channels? Evaluate which channels are essential for your household beyond just ESPN and ABC.
• Are you comfortable with technology? Streaming services require a bit more technical setup and understanding than traditional cable.

For many, especially those looking to cut the cord, a live TV streaming service like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV offers a compelling balance of features, cost, and flexibility for watching Monday Night Football and other live sports.

Watching Monday Night Football Internationally

For NFL fans outside the United States, watching Monday Night Football requires understanding the international broadcast rights and available streaming solutions. While the core experience remains the same, the specific platforms and availability will differ.

NFL Game Pass International

For many international markets, NFL Game Pass International is the most comprehensive solution. This service, offered directly by the NFL, provides access to live out-of-market games, including Monday Night Football. It typically requires a subscription and is available in most countries outside the United States and Canada. With NFL Game Pass International, you can stream every regular-season and playoff game live (with some exceptions for local blackouts in certain countries). The service also offers on-demand replays, condensed games, and other exclusive content. It's crucial to check the specific availability and terms of NFL Game Pass International in your country, as broadcast rights can vary.

Local Broadcasters and Streaming Partners

In many countries, the NFL partners with local broadcasters or streaming services to air games. These partners will carry Monday Night Football and other NFL contests. For example:

• United Kingdom: Sky Sports has historically been a major broadcaster of NFL games, including Monday Night Football.
• Canada: While not "international" in the same sense, Canada has its own broadcast partners, often including TSN and RDS, which carry NFL games. However, specific Monday Night Football rights might differ.
• Germany, France, Australia, etc.: These regions often have dedicated sports channels or streaming platforms that secure NFL broadcast rights. Examples might include DAZN in some territories, or local sports networks.

To find out which service broadcasts Monday Night Football in your specific country, it's best to consult the NFL's official international website or search for "NFL broadcast partners [your country name]." This will direct you to the official broadcasters and their respective subscription details.

VPNs and Geo-Restrictions

Some international viewers might consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access US-based streaming services like ESPN or ABC. However, this approach can be complex and is not always reliable. Streaming services often implement measures to detect and block VPN usage, and using a VPN may violate their terms of service. Furthermore, even if you can access the stream, you might encounter issues with payment methods or geo-restricted content within the app itself. While a VPN *could* theoretically allow access to US streams, it's often a less stable and more legally ambiguous solution compared to official international broadcast options.

Time Zone Differences

One of the primary challenges for international viewers is the time difference. Monday Night Football games typically start at 8:15 PM ET in the US. Depending on your location, this could mean watching the game late at night or very early in the morning. NFL Game Pass International and many local broadcasters offer on-demand replays, which is a valuable feature for those who cannot watch live due to time zone conflicts. This allows you to catch up on the game at a more convenient time without spoilers.

Preparing for Game Day: Tips and Tricks

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable Monday Night Football experience, a little preparation goes a long way. From checking your equipment to planning your viewing party, these tips will help you get the most out of game day.

Technical Checks

Before the game starts, it's essential to ensure all your viewing equipment is in working order:

• Internet Speed Test: If you're streaming, run an internet speed test to confirm you have sufficient bandwidth. For HD streaming, a speed of at least 5-10 Mbps is recommended, and more is better for 4K content (if available).
• Device Compatibility: Ensure your smart TV, streaming device (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV), or computer is updated and compatible with the streaming app you plan to use.
• App Login: Log in to your chosen streaming service or the ESPN/ABC app well in advance. Verify your credentials are correct and that you can access the live TV feed.
• Signal Strength: If using an antenna for ABC, check your signal strength and reposition the antenna if necessary for the best reception.
• Remote Controls: Make sure all remote controls for your TV, streaming device, and sound system are working and have fresh batteries.

Viewing Environment

Create the best possible atmosphere for watching the game:

• Comfortable Seating: Ensure you have comfortable seating with a clear view of the screen.
• Sound System: If you have a soundbar or home theater system, test it to ensure the audio is clear and immersive. Adjust volume levels appropriately.
• Lighting: Dim the lights to reduce glare on the screen and enhance the viewing experience.
• Snacks and Drinks: Prepare your favorite game-day snacks and beverages. Having everything ready beforehand means you won't miss any crucial plays while in the kitchen.

Game Day Rituals

Many fans have their own game-day rituals that enhance the experience:

• Pre-Game Shows: Tune into ESPN's pre-game shows (like NFL Countdown) for analysis, predictions, and insights before kickoff.
• Fantasy Football Check: If you play fantasy football, check your lineup and any last-minute news regarding your players.
• Social Media Engagement: Follow your favorite teams, players, and sports journalists on social media for real-time updates and commentary. However, be mindful of spoilers if you haven't watched the game yet.
• Viewing Parties: If you're hosting or attending a viewing party, coordinate with guests regarding food, drinks, and any specific game-day traditions.

Backup Plans

It's always wise to have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties:

• Alternative Device: Have a smartphone or tablet ready with the streaming app logged in as a backup if your primary viewing device fails.
• Radio Broadcast: Familiarize yourself with the local radio station that carries your favorite team's games. While not visual, it can be a lifesaver if your internet or TV goes out.
• Official NFL App: The NFL app often provides live scoring, play-by-play updates, and sometimes even audio broadcasts, which can keep you informed even if you can't watch the video feed.

By taking these steps, you can minimize potential disruptions and maximize your enjoyment of every Monday Night Football game throughout the 2025-26 season.

Alternative Ways to Follow the Action

While watching the game live on TV or streaming is the ultimate experience, there are several alternative ways to stay connected to Monday Night Football, especially if you can't catch every play live or want to supplement your viewing.

Live Scoring and Play-by-Play Updates

NFL Official App: The NFL's official mobile app is an indispensable tool. It provides real-time scoring updates, down-by-down play-by-play commentary, player statistics, and game alerts. You can set notifications for your favorite team or specific games. This is perfect for following along during work, commutes, or if your internet connection is unstable.

Sports News Websites: Major sports news outlets like ESPN.com, NFL.com, CBS Sports, and Yahoo Sports offer live blogs and constantly updated scores during games. These often include commentary from reporters on the scene.

Twitter/X: Following official NFL accounts, team accounts, and reputable sports journalists on Twitter/X provides a firehose of real-time updates, analysis, and fan reactions. Be cautious of spoilers if you are watching on a delay.

Audio Broadcasts

Westwood One: Westwood One is the official national radio partner of the NFL and broadcasts all Monday Night Football games. You can often listen to these broadcasts through local AM/FM radio stations, their website, or via apps like TuneIn Radio. This is an excellent option for following the game while driving or multitasking.

Team-Specific Radio: Many local radio stations carry the flagship broadcasts for individual NFL teams. While these might not cover the national Monday Night Football broadcast directly, they are a great way to get team-specific commentary and analysis.

Game Replays and Highlights

NFL Game Pass: As mentioned for international viewers, NFL Game Pass (and its US equivalent, NFL+ Premium) offers full game replays, condensed games (typically around 45 minutes), and all-22 coaches film access. This is ideal for fans who want to watch the entire game after the fact or study the strategic aspects.

YouTube: The official NFL YouTube channel often posts game highlights shortly after the conclusion of games. These highlight reels are a quick way to catch up on the most exciting plays.

Streaming Service On-Demand Libraries: Many live TV streaming services that carry ESPN and ABC will make recent games available on-demand for a period after they air, allowing you to catch up if you missed the live broadcast.

Podcasts and Analysis

Numerous NFL podcasts offer in-depth analysis before and after each Monday Night Football game. These can provide valuable insights, historical context, and fan perspectives that enhance your understanding and appreciation of the sport. Look for podcasts from reputable sports media outlets or independent analysts.

By utilizing these alternative methods, you can remain fully engaged with the 2025-26 Monday Night Football season, no matter your viewing circumstances.

In conclusion, watching Monday Night Football in the 2025-26 season is more accessible than ever, thanks to a combination of traditional broadcasting and diverse streaming options. Whether you're a seasoned cable subscriber or a dedicated cord-cutter, understanding your choices – from ESPN and ABC broadcasts to services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV – is key. For international fans, NFL Game Pass International remains a prime solution. Remember to check the official schedule, verify your chosen platform carries the necessary channels in your region, and perform technical checks before kickoff. With these preparations, you're all set to enjoy every thrilling moment of the 2025-26 Monday Night Football season. Don't miss a single touchdown!