How To Watch Thursday Night Football Without Amazon Prime (step-by-step Guide)
Ah, Thursday Night Football! It's that mid-week dose of gridiron excitement that perfectly breaks up the week. Whether you're a die-hard fan counting down the minutes or just someone who enjoys the casual camaraderie of watching a game with friends and family, Thursday nights have become a staple for many. But what if you don't have an Amazon Prime subscription? Don't worry, catching the action is still totally doable, and we're here to show you exactly how!
This guide is for everyone who wants to get in on the Thursday night football fun without the Amazon Prime requirement. For beginners just dipping their toes into the world of football, knowing these alternatives means you won't miss out on learning the game. For families looking for an easy weeknight entertainment option, these steps make it simple to gather everyone around the screen. And for the dedicated hobbyists who meticulously plan their football viewing schedule, these methods ensure you never have to skip a game.
The primary benefit here is flexibility and cost savings. You get to enjoy the thrill of live NFL action without committing to an additional streaming service if it's not already part of your digital life. Plus, depending on your location and chosen method, you might even get to experience the game in a different way, perhaps with local commentary or at a lively sports bar with fellow fans!
Let's dive into the step-by-step guide. The most common and reliable way to watch Thursday Night Football without Amazon Prime is through your local network affiliate. Many NFL games, including those broadcast on Amazon Prime, are also simultaneously shown on a broadcast television channel. This often means a major network like NBC, CBS, or FOX. The specific channel can vary by week, so your first step is to check the official NFL schedule or your local TV listings. A quick search for "Thursday Night Football channel tonight" will usually give you the answer.
Step 1: Identify the Broadcast Channel. Before kickoff, do a quick online search or check your TV guide for which channel is airing the game. This is often a major network that's free with an antenna!
Step 2: Tune In. If the game is on a broadcast network, and you have a traditional cable or satellite subscription, simply tune to that channel. Easy as that!
Step 3: Consider an Antenna. For those who've cut the cord or are looking for a free option, a digital TV antenna is your best friend. Many local channels broadcasting NFL games are available over-the-air for free. Simply connect an antenna to your TV, scan for channels, and you should be able to pick up the game if it's broadcast locally.
Step 4: Explore Other Streaming Options (with caution). While Amazon Prime has exclusive rights for many Thursday Night games, some games might be available through other live TV streaming services that offer the specific channels broadcasting the game. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV often carry major broadcast networks. However, be aware that these are typically paid subscriptions, so the "without Amazon Prime" benefit is about choosing a different paid service rather than a completely free one, unless you leverage the free trial periods strategically.
Step 5: Check NFL+ (for mobile). The NFL's own streaming service, NFL+, allows you to watch live out-of-market preseason games, all regular and postseason games on mobile devices, and live local and primetime games on mobile and tablet devices. This could be a good option if you prefer watching on smaller screens, though it's a paid service.
Watching Thursday Night Football doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By knowing where to look and utilizing free or alternative options, you can easily join in on the football excitement. So grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the game!