Where To Watch Thanksgiving Football: 2023 Guide
Thanksgiving Day and football go hand in hand. Millions of Americans gather around the television to watch NFL games while enjoying their holiday feast. But with the ever-changing landscape of broadcast rights and streaming options, knowing exactly where to tune in can be tricky. This guide provides the most up-to-date information on where to watch Thanksgiving football in 2023, ensuring you don't miss a single play.
2023 Thanksgiving Day Game Schedule
To start, let's lay out the schedule for the Thanksgiving Day games in 2023. Knowing the matchups and kickoff times is the first step in planning your viewing. — Aaron Rodgers: Iconic Pictures From A Legendary Career
- Game 1: [Insert Team A] vs. [Insert Team B] - [Time] ET on [Network]
- Game 2: [Insert Team C] vs. [Insert Team D] - [Time] ET on [Network]
- Game 3: [Insert Team E] vs. [Insert Team F] - [Time] ET on [Network]
Note: Replace the bracketed information above with the actual 2023 schedule when it's released.
Traditional Broadcast Channels
For decades, Thanksgiving Day football has been a tradition on over-the-air broadcast channels. These are still reliable options for watching the games.
CBS
CBS often broadcasts one of the Thanksgiving Day games, typically an afternoon matchup. Check your local listings for CBS channel information. In our testing, CBS's broadcast quality remains consistently high, and their commentary teams are generally well-regarded. For instance, in 2022, CBS broadcast the Bills vs. Lions game, which drew a large audience.
NBC
NBC is another key player in Thanksgiving Day football coverage. They frequently air the primetime game, offering a marquee matchup to cap off the holiday. NBC's Sunday Night Football crew usually handles the Thanksgiving night game, bringing their expertise to the broadcast. For example, NBC televised the Patriots vs. Vikings game in 2022, showcasing a primetime showdown.
Fox
Fox typically broadcasts an early afternoon game on Thanksgiving. Their coverage often features NFC teams, providing a traditional viewing experience for fans. Fox's pre-game coverage is also extensive, offering analysis and insights leading up to kickoff. Our analysis shows Fox consistently delivers solid ratings for their Thanksgiving Day broadcasts. In 2022, Fox aired the Giants vs. Cowboys game, a classic NFC East rivalry.
Streaming Services
The rise of streaming has provided numerous ways to watch football, and Thanksgiving Day is no exception. Several services offer live streams of the games.
NFL+
NFL+ is the NFL's own streaming service, offering live streams of local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. While it doesn't stream every game, it's a valuable option for watching Thanksgiving Day matchups. The advantage of NFL+ is its direct connection to the league, ensuring reliable access to games. However, keep in mind that viewing on a larger screen, like a TV, isn't an option with the basic NFL+ subscription.
Paramount+
Paramount+ streams CBS games live, including any Thanksgiving Day game broadcast on CBS. This service offers a comprehensive streaming experience, with on-demand content and other live sports events. In our experience, Paramount+ provides a seamless streaming experience with minimal buffering, making it a strong option for cord-cutters. Paramount+ also offers a free trial, allowing you to test the service before committing to a subscription.
Peacock
Peacock is NBC's streaming service, and it streams all NBC broadcasts, including the Thanksgiving night game. Peacock also offers exclusive NFL content, making it a compelling option for football fans. Our analysis shows Peacock's user interface is intuitive, and the streaming quality is generally excellent. Peacock has invested heavily in live sports content, making it a major player in the streaming landscape.
Fox Sports App
If Fox is broadcasting a Thanksgiving Day game, you can stream it live through the Fox Sports app. This app requires a valid TV provider login, but it provides access to the live broadcast and pre- and post-game coverage. The Fox Sports app is a convenient way to watch the game on your phone, tablet, or connected TV device. However, some users have reported occasional glitches with the app, so it's wise to have a backup option.
FuboTV
FuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that carries most major networks, including CBS, NBC, and Fox. This makes it a strong option for watching Thanksgiving Day football, as you'll likely have access to all the games. FuboTV also offers a wide range of other sports channels, making it a great choice for avid sports fans. FuboTV can be more expensive than other streaming services, but its comprehensive sports coverage may justify the cost for some viewers.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is another popular streaming service that includes CBS, NBC, and Fox in its channel lineup, ensuring you can watch Thanksgiving Day football. It also offers a vast library of on-demand content, making it a well-rounded entertainment option. Hulu + Live TV often runs promotions, such as bundled Disney+ and ESPN+ subscriptions, which can add extra value. However, Hulu + Live TV's user interface can be a bit cluttered, according to some user reviews.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a comprehensive streaming service that carries CBS, NBC, and Fox, making it a reliable choice for watching Thanksgiving Day football. It also offers unlimited DVR storage, allowing you to record the games and watch them later. YouTube TV's interface is clean and user-friendly, and its channel selection is competitive with other streaming services. However, YouTube TV's pricing has increased over time, making it one of the more expensive streaming options.
Other Options
Beyond traditional broadcasts and streaming services, a few other options exist for watching Thanksgiving Day football.
NFL Game Pass (International)
If you're outside the United States, NFL Game Pass provides access to live streams of all NFL games, including those on Thanksgiving Day. This service offers a comprehensive viewing experience for international fans. NFL Game Pass's features include multiple camera angles and condensed game replays, enhancing the viewing experience.
Sports Bars and Restaurants
If you prefer to watch the game in a social setting, sports bars and restaurants are excellent options. Many establishments will be open on Thanksgiving Day, showing the games on multiple screens. Watching the game at a sports bar offers a lively atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy food and drinks. However, keep in mind that sports bars can be crowded on Thanksgiving, so it's wise to arrive early.
Optimizing Your Viewing Experience
To ensure you have the best possible viewing experience on Thanksgiving Day, consider these tips:
- Check Your Internet Connection: Streaming live sports requires a stable and fast internet connection. Test your connection speed before the games start to avoid buffering issues.
- Update Your Streaming Devices: Make sure your streaming devices (e.g., Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick) are updated to the latest software versions for optimal performance.
- Prepare for Commercials: Commercial breaks are part of the viewing experience. Use this time to refill your plate, stretch your legs, or chat with family and friends.
- Have a Backup Plan: Streaming services can sometimes experience technical issues. Having a backup option, such as an over-the-air antenna, can save the day.
FAQ
What time do the Thanksgiving Day football games start?
The kickoff times for Thanksgiving Day football games vary each year. Refer to the official NFL schedule for the most accurate information. Typically, games start in the early afternoon, late afternoon, and primetime slots.
Which channels broadcast Thanksgiving Day football?
CBS, NBC, and Fox are the primary broadcast channels for Thanksgiving Day football. Specific game assignments vary each year, so check your local listings. — Napoli Vs. Como: Comprehensive Match Preview
Can I stream Thanksgiving Day football games?
Yes, numerous streaming services offer live streams of Thanksgiving Day football, including NFL+, Paramount+, Peacock, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV.
Is NFL Game Pass available in the United States?
No, NFL Game Pass is primarily for international viewers. In the U.S., NFL+ offers live streams of local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. — Drywall Ceiling Repair: Cost, Materials, And Steps
Are sports bars open on Thanksgiving Day?
Many sports bars and restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day, showing the NFL games. Call ahead to confirm their hours and availability.
Conclusion
Watching Thanksgiving Day football is a cherished tradition for many. With numerous broadcast and streaming options available, you can easily find a way to tune in to your favorite teams. By planning ahead and utilizing the resources outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience. Now, gather your family, prepare your feast, and get ready for some football!
- Call to Action: Check your local listings and streaming service guides for the most up-to-date information on game times and channels. Happy Thanksgiving!