5 Best Cable TV Providers For NFL Fans
Check out the list of cable TV providers for NFL fans
For the 2024 NFL season, Xfinity, Spectrum, COX, Optimum, and Verizon Fios offer the best cable TV coverage for NFL fans, with varying packages, channel lineups, and pricing options.
As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, football enthusiasts are racing to secure the ultimate viewing experience. With an exciting lineup of games ahead, choosing the right cable TV provider is crucial for catching every moment of the action.
Understanding provider options, game access, and plan offerings can be overwhelming. In this guide, I will simplify that process, breaking down the top cable TV choices for NFL fans.
We’ll explore each provider’s NFL-specific offerings, pricing, and features, helping you make an informed decision without extensive research.
Best Cable TV Providers For NFL Fans
Each of these providers brings something unique to the game, ensuring you’ll find the perfect match for your football viewing needs.
| Cable TV Provider | NFL-Related Channels Offered | Pricing Starts From |
|---|---|---|
| Xfinity | CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, NFL RedZone* | $49.99/month |
| Spectrum | CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, NFL RedZone* | $59.99/month |
| COX | CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, NFL RedZone* | $53.00/month |
| Optimum | CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, NFL RedZone* | $35.00/month |
| Verizon Fios | CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, NFL RedZone* | $65.00/month |
*NFL RedZone is typically available as an add-on package for an additional fee.
Note: These prices stated above are independent of Internet plans that may be required as per the provider selected. Channel availability may vary by location and package.
Local broadcast channels (CBS, FOX, NBC) are typically included in basic packages, while ESPN, NFL Network, and NFL RedZone may require higher-tier packages or add-ons.
Now that we’ve got a quick overview let’s break down each provider to help you determine which one best suits your NFL viewing needs.
We’ll explore their offerings, unique features, and pricing structures to ensure you make an informed decision for the 2024 season and beyond.
1. Xfinity
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local broadcasts, Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football, Thursday Night Football |
| NFL Channels Offered | NFL Network, ESPN, Fox Sports, CBS Sports Network, NBC Sports Network |
| DVR Storage & Retention | 150 hours of HD storage, 60 days of retention |
| Link | Here |
Xfinity’s cable TV service is an excellent choice for NFL fans, offering a comprehensive suite of sports channels and cutting-edge features.
Moreover, the X1 platform is the centerpiece of the Xfinity experience, providing an intuitive interface that seamlessly blends live TV, on-demand content, and streaming apps.
Xfinity allows you to find your favorite NFL games and content effortlessly with voice-controlled navigation and personalized recommendations.
The robust channel lineup ensures access to all major networks broadcasting NFL games, complemented by specialized sports networks for in-depth analysis and exclusive content.
Bonus: Read our comparison of YouTubeTV vs Xfinity to see how Xfinity performs against one of the best NFL streaming services.
Xfinity Key Features:
- Has an X1 voice remote for easy game searching and control
- Sports Zone app for real-time scores, stats, and player information
- On-demand replay of missed games within 24 hours
- 4K HDR viewing options for select NFL games
- Integration with popular streaming apps for a unified entertainment experience
- Multi-room DVR capabilities for flexible viewing throughout your home
Pricing Details: Xfinity’s pricing structure offers flexibility for various budgets and NFL viewing needs:
- Choice TV: at $46.70/month
- Popular TV: At $94.20/month (includes most NFL channels)
- Ultimate TV: $112.70 / month
Bonus: NFL Redzone is available as an add-on for an additional $9.99/mo
2. Spectrum
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local broadcasts, primetime games, select out-of-market games |
| NFL Channels Offered | NFL Network, ESPN, FS1, CBS Sports Network |
| DVR Storage & Retention | Unlimited storage for 90 days |
| Link | Here |
Spectrum’s cable TV service provides a reliable option for NFL enthusiasts, combining a wide array of sports channels with user-friendly features, and is one of the top cable TV providers in the USA.
Spectrum’s channel lineup covers all the bases, from local broadcasts to national games, ensuring comprehensive NFL coverage.
The absence of long-term contracts adds flexibility here, while the inclusion of HD channels at no extra cost enhances the viewing experience. To add up to the value, Spectrum has a TV app, where fans can take their NFL action on the go, never missing a crucial play even when away from home.
Spectrum Key Features:
- No long-term contracts are required, offering flexibility
- Free HD channels for crystal-clear game viewing
- Spectrum TV app for mobile viewing of live games and highlights
- Bundle options with high-speed internet for seamless streaming of additional NFL content
- User-friendly on-screen guide for easy game navigation
- Parental controls to manage content access for family viewing
Pricing Details: Spectrum offers tiered pricing to accommodate various viewing preferences:
- TV Select package: Starts at $64.99/month
- TV Silver package: Priced at $74.99/month (includes more sports channels)
Note: Prices may vary by location
3. COX
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local broadcasts, Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football |
| NFL Channels Offered | NFL Network, ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports Network |
| DVR Storage & Retention | 250 HD hours, retention varies by plan |
| Link | Here |
COX’s Contour TV service offers NFL fans a comprehensive and customizable viewing experience with its three plans.
This NFL cable TV provider has helpful features, like the voice-controlled remote and personalized sports recommendations, that enhance the overall NFL viewing experience. The multi-view option is particularly appealing for hardcore fans, enabling simultaneous viewing of multiple games.
With a strong lineup of sports channels and flexible DVR options, COX ensures that football enthusiasts can capture and replay every crucial moment of the NFL season.
COX Key Features:
- Voice-controlled remote for easy navigation and game searching
- Personalized sports recommendations based on viewing habits
- Multi-view option to watch up to four games simultaneously
- Seamless integration with popular streaming services for expanded content access
- Contour app for mobile viewing of live games and recorded content
- Advanced search functionality to easily find specific games or highlights
Pricing Details: COX offers various packages to suit different NFL viewing needs:
- Contour TV Starter: Priced at $61.00/month
- Contour TV Preferred package: Priced at $115.00/month
- Contour TV Ulitmate: Priced at $146.00/month
In addition to the above plans, additional sports packages, such as NFL RedZone, NFL Network, MLB packs, and others, are available for more comprehensive coverage.
4. Optimum
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local broadcasts, Sunday Night Football, select national games |
| NFL Channels Offered | NFL Network, ESPN, Fox Sports, CBS Sports Network |
| DVR Storage & Retention | 150 hours of HD storage, 1 year retention |
| Link | Here |
This cable TV service is budget-friendly and is a popular cable TV option for seniors. Optimum is a feature-rich option for NFL fans, particularly those in the Northeast. The service strikes a balance between affordability and comprehensive sports coverage, making it an attractive choice for casual and dedicated viewers alike.
Optimum’s channel lineup includes all the essential networks for NFL games, complemented by sports-specific channels for in-depth analysis and highlights.
The provider’s commitment to no annual contracts offers flexibility, while the 4K-capable set-top boxes ensure a high-quality viewing experience for compatible content.
With the Optimum TV app, fans can enjoy live games and replays on their mobile devices, keeping them connected to the NFL action wherever they go.
Key Features:
- No annual contracts, providing flexibility for subscribers
- 4K-capable set-top boxes for enhanced picture quality on compatible content
- Optimum TV app for mobile viewing of live games and recorded content
- Pause and rewind live TV functionality for instant replays
- On-screen guide with easy-to-use search and filter options
- Multi-room DVR capabilities for whole-home NFL viewing
Pricing Details: Optimum offers competitive pricing with various package options:
- Core TV package: Priced at just $35.00/month
- Select TV package: Priced at $85.00/month
- Premier TV package: Priced at $125.00/month
5. Verizon Fios
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Games Available | Local broadcasts, primetime games, select out-of-market games |
| NFL Channels Offered | NFL Network, ESPN, FS1, NBC Sports Network |
| DVR Storage & Retention | 200 hours of HD storage, unlimited retention |
| Link | Here |
Verizon Fios delivers a premium NFL viewing experience powered by its advanced fiber-optic network. This technology ensures unparalleled picture quality and minimal lag during live games, which is crucial for enjoying fast-paced NFL action.
Fios TV stands out with its customizable packages, allowing fans to tailor their channel lineup to their specific NFL preferences. The service’s reliability is a major selling point, minimizing the risk of outages during critical game moments.
With features like a multi-room DVR and the Fios TV app, Verizon ensures that NFL enthusiasts can enjoy games throughout their homes and on the go, providing a flexible and high-quality football viewing solution.
Key Features:
- Fiber-optic network for superior reliability and picture quality
- Mix & Match plans for customization of channel lineups
- Multi-room DVR for whole-home recording and playback
- Fios TV app for streaming live games and recorded content on mobile devices
- Interactive widgets for real-time sports scores and stats
- 4K compatibility for select content, offering ultra-high-definition viewing
Pricing Details: Verizon Fios offers a range of packages to suit various NFL viewing needs. The basic Fios TV package starts at $69.00/month and also allows you to get the NFL Redzone as an add-on.
NFL Game Packages
For the ultimate NFL experience, consider adding specialized packages to your cable subscription.
| Feature | NFL Sunday Ticket | NFL RedZone |
|---|---|---|
| Live Games | All out-of-market Sunday afternoon games | Whip-around coverage of all Sunday afternoon games |
| Exclusivity | Available through YouTube TV or as a standalone | Add-on for most cable packages |
| Price | $349-$489/season | $5-$15/month (varies by provider) |
| Blackout game access? | ❌ | ❌ |
| Additional Content | Player tracking, stats, replays | Commercial-free, constant action |
| Availability | Nationwide | Most major cable providers |
| Mobile Streaming | Yes | Yes (through provider apps) |
| Contract Required | No | Typically no, part of the cable package |
These offerings provide comprehensive coverage and exclusive content for the most devoted fans:
- NFL RedZone:
- Available as an add-on with most providers
- Provides live look-ins at every Sunday afternoon game
- Focuses on teams in scoring position, ensuring you never miss a touchdown
- Commercial-free format for uninterrupted game action
Read more about NFL RedZone: Here
- NFL Network:
- Included in many sports packages
- Provides year-round NFL coverage, including exclusive Thursday Night Football games
- Offers original programming, analysis, and classic game replays
Read more about NFL Network: Here
Provider-specific NFL packages
When using a cable TV provider, these above two add-ons can be included with the main subscription.
- Xfinity:
- Sports Entertainment Package ($9.99/month) includes NFL RedZone
- X1 Sports Package provides additional football-focused channels
- Spectrum:
- Sports View ($5/month) includes NFL RedZone
- NFL Network is available in higher-tier packages
- COX:
- Sports Pack ($10/month) includes NFL RedZone
- Advanced TV package includes NFL Network
- Optimum:
- Sports & Entertainment Pack ($14.99/month) includes NFL Network and RedZone
- Additional sports tiers available for more comprehensive coverage
- Verizon Fios:
- Sports Extra ($14.99/month) includes NFL RedZone
- The Most Fios TV package includes the NFL Network
Things To Consider While Getting A Cable TV Provider
Choosing the right cable TV provider from the above selections isn’t about channel numbers and add-on packages—it’s about finding the perfect fit for your football fandom.
As you huddle up to make your decision, keep these key factors in mind to ensure you score the best possible NFL viewing experience.
1. Local vs. National Coverage
Understanding which games are available in your area is crucial when selecting a cable provider. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best local and national coverage:
- Check your local NFL team’s broadcast rights: Some teams have exclusive deals with specific networks or cable providers. Research your local team’s broadcasting arrangements to ensure you can access their games.
- Consider your viewing habits: If you primarily watch your local team, focus on providers with strong local network affiliates. For out-of-market games, look for providers offering comprehensive national coverage or consider add-ons like NFL Sunday Ticket.
- Use online tools: Websites like 506sports.com provide weekly maps showing which games will air in different regions. These tools can help you determine which provider offers the best coverage for the games you’re most interested in.
- Analyze regional sports networks: Some providers offer exclusive regional sports networks that may carry additional local team content, pre-game shows, or analysis.
- Understand blackout rules: Familiarize yourself with NFL blackout policies, which can affect game availability in certain markets.
2. Channel Availability
Ensure your chosen provider offers these key channels for comprehensive NFL coverage:
- CBS: Airs AFC games on Sunday afternoons
- FOX: Broadcasts NFC games on Sunday afternoons
- NBC: Home of Sunday Night Football
- ESPN: Carries Monday Night Football
- NFL Network: Airs Thursday Night Football and other exclusive content
- RedZone: Offers live look-ins at all Sunday afternoon games
Consider the following when evaluating channel lineups:
- Package tiers that include sports channels
- Availability of sports-specific add-ons
- Access to college football channels for a complete football experience
- Inclusion of analysis and highlight shows on sports-centric networks
3. Customer Service/Support
When issues arise on game day, you’ll want prompt and effective support. Consider these factors:
- 24/7 availability: Look for providers offering round-the-clock support, especially important for primetime and late-night games.
- Multiple support channels: Providers with phone, chat, and social media support options can address issues more efficiently.
- Installation and setup: Choose a provider known for timely and professional installation to ensure you’re ready for kickoff.
- Online resources: Check for comprehensive FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and video tutorials on the provider’s website.
- Community forums: Some providers offer user forums where you can get advice from other customers and tech enthusiasts.
4. Additional Considerations
- Internet bundling: Many providers offer discounts when bundling TV and internet services, which can be beneficial for streaming supplemental NFL content or accessing the online features of your TV package.
- Mobile viewing options: Look for providers with robust mobile apps that allow you to watch games on the go, access your DVR recordings, or stream highlights.
- 4K availability: If you have a 4K TV, check which providers offer 4K NFL broadcasts for the ultimate viewing experience. Consider the number of 4K channels offered and any additional costs.
- DVR capabilities: Evaluate each provider’s DVR service’s storage capacity, simultaneous recording limits, and retention periods.
- Contract terms: Some providers require long-term commitments, while others offer month-to-month services. Consider your long-term plans and preference for flexibility.
- Equipment fees: Factor in any additional costs for set-top boxes, DVRs, or other necessary equipment.
- Promotional offers: Look for special deals or introductory rates, but be sure to understand how prices may change after the promotional period ends.
However, if you want to watch the NFL without a cable, you can check out the linked guide to find the best cable TV alternatives.
More Guides on NFL:
Conclusion: Optimum Is The Most Affordable Cable TV Provider For NFL Watching
While Optimum is the most affordable option, the ideal choice depends on your unique combination of location, budget, and viewing habits.
Xfinity stands out for its all-encompassing NFL coverage, while Optimum offers budget-friendly options for casual viewers.
Spectrum caters to the cost-conscious without compromising on quality, and Verizon Fios delivers top-notch technology for the tech-savvy fan. For those juggling multiple games, COX’s multi-view feature is a game-changer.
Every type of NFL fan can find a provider tailored to their preferences. With the insights from this guide, you’re now ready to make an informed decision and enjoy every thrilling moment of the NFL season. Happy viewing!