Football FOMO? How to Watch Those Glorious Preseason Games (and Avoid Saying "But Why?")
Ah, the NFL preseason. A time for cautious optimism, questionable coaching decisions, and quarterbacks you won't recognize by week 3. It's the appetizer before the main course, the warm-up band before the rock concert. But unlike that Nickelback cover band you accidentally stumbled into, preseason football is actually enjoyable (most of the time).
The only problem? Figuring out how to watch the darn things. Fear not, fellow football fanatic, for this guide will be your compass through the murky waters of televised training camp scrimmages.
Channel Surfing Safari: Your Local Options
First things first, check your local listings. Your favorite team's preseason debut might be gracing the airwaves of your friendly neighborhood ABC, CBS, FOX, or NBC affiliate. These broadcasts are often sprinkled with heartwarming stories about the team's new equipment manager and endless replays of that rookie wide receiver who fumbled on the first play.
Word to the wise: Local broadcasts can be a bit...enthusiastic... about your team's backups. Prepare yourself for effusive praise over a perfectly executed screen pass.
The National Stage: NFL Network and Beyond
Craving a wider selection of preseason action? Look no further than NFL Network. This is your one-stop shop for nationally televised preseason games, featuring teams from across the league. It's a great way to scout potential fantasy football sleepers...or just laugh at the bizarre trick plays coaches trot out in August.
But wait, there's more! In recent years, other networks have gotten in on the preseason action. You might find a game on Amazon Prime Video (because who doesn't want to watch football while browsing for a new toilet brush?), or on ESPN (sandwiched between reruns of SportsCenter and whatever obscure bass fishing tournament they've picked up).
Remember: Not all preseason games are nationally televised. If your local team isn't lighting up the national spotlight, you might need to get creative.
Out-of-Market Blues? Here Come the Streaming Services
Living in a city that worships a different kind of pigskin (the rugby kind, I'm looking at you, Jacksonville)? Don't despair! Streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV often carry your local channels, allowing you to catch your team's preseason exploits. Just be sure they offer the channel your team's on, or you might be stuck watching cricket instead.
The not-so-secret weapon: NFL+ (formerly NFL Game Pass) is your best friend if you're an out-of-market fan. It offers live streams of all preseason games, so you can watch your team, even if they're playing in Timbuktu. Just be prepared for a potential subscription fee.
So You've Found the Game... Now What?
Congratulations! You've navigated the labyrinth of channels and streaming services. Now, what to expect? Here's a quick rundown:
- Lots of dropped passes: Because, well, it's preseason.
- Starting quarterbacks sitting out: Don't get too attached to that Hail Mary your backup just threw.
- Undrafted rookies making highlight-reel plays: These are the guys you'll be bragging about to your friends in week 12 when they erupt for 150 yards.
- Enough commercials to fill a stadium: Stock up on snacks (and maybe a mute button)
Preseason football: it's not for the faint of heart, but for the truly devoted fan, it's a glorious time. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and enjoy the return of America's favorite sport (with all its quirks and preseason weirdness).
