NFL Game Times: Your Ultimate Viewing Guide ??

NFL Game Times: Your Ultimate Viewing Guide ??

Are you an NFL fanatic constantly wondering, "What time do NFL games come on?" Navigating the NFL schedule can feel like deciphering a secret code. With games spread across various days and times, it's easy to miss your favorite team in action. This comprehensive guide breaks down the typical NFL game schedule and provides tips on how to stay updated so you never miss a snap!

What Time Do NFL Games Come On: Understanding the Standard Schedule

The NFL season follows a predictable, yet dynamic, schedule. Knowing the usual time slots can help you plan your week around the gridiron action.

  • Sunday: This is the main event!

    • Early Afternoon Games: Typically kick off at 1:00 PM ET. Several games are played simultaneously, giving you plenty of options.
    • Late Afternoon Games: Usually start at 4:05 PM ET or 4:25 PM ET. These often feature marquee matchups.
    • Sunday Night Football (SNF): The prime-time showcase game begins at 8:20 PM ET on NBC.

  • Monday Night Football (MNF): A single game kicks off at 8:15 PM ET on ESPN.

  • Thursday Night Football (TNF): Games start at 8:15 PM ET, previously on NFL Network, now primarily on Amazon Prime Video.

  • Saturday Games: During the late regular season and playoffs, you'll find games on Saturdays, with varying start times. These are often doubleheaders. What time do NFL games come on Saturday? It depends on the week but typically, you'll find games starting in the early afternoon and running into the evening.

What Time Do NFL Games Come On: Factors Affecting Game Times

While the above schedule is standard, several factors can influence the exact kickoff time:

  • Flex Scheduling: The NFL uses flex scheduling to ensure that the best and most compelling games are featured in prime-time slots later in the season. This means games initially scheduled for Sunday afternoon can be moved to Sunday Night Football.
  • Holiday Games: Thanksgiving is a football feast! Three games are played throughout the day. Christmas Day games are also becoming increasingly common. What time do NFL games come on during holidays? Typically, you'll see a mix of afternoon and prime-time slots.
  • International Games: The NFL plays games in London and other international locations. These games often have earlier kickoff times to accommodate viewers in different time zones.
  • Playoffs: Playoff game times vary and are announced closer to the game dates. They generally span Saturday afternoon through Sunday night.

What Time Do NFL Games Come On: How to Stay Updated

Missing a game is every fan's nightmare. Here's how to ensure you're always in the know:

  • Official NFL Schedule: The official NFL website (nfl.com) is the most reliable source for the complete and up-to-date schedule.
  • Team Websites: Your favorite team's website will also post their schedule with game times.
  • Sports Apps: ESPN, TheScore, and other sports apps provide schedules, scores, and notifications.
  • TV Listings: Check your local TV listings to confirm the channel and time for each game.
  • Social Media: Follow the NFL and your favorite teams on social media for schedule updates and announcements.

What Time Do NFL Games Come On: The Importance of Time Zones

Don't forget to adjust game times based on your time zone! This seems obvious, but it's a common mistake. If you're on the West Coast, a 1:00 PM ET game starts at 10:00 AM PT.

What Time Do NFL Games Come On: Beyond the Regular Season

The excitement doesn't end with the regular season. The playoffs follow a similar structure, with games spread across weekends. Super Bowl kickoff is usually around 6:30 PM ET on a Sunday in February.

What Time Do NFL Games Come On: Question and Answer

Q: What time do NFL games typically start on Sundays?

A: Early games are usually at 1:00 PM ET, late games are at 4:05 PM ET or 4:25 PM ET, and Sunday Night Football is at 8:20 PM ET.

Q: Where can I find the most accurate NFL game schedule?

A: The official NFL website (nfl.com) is the best source.

Q: What is flex scheduling and how does it affect game times?

A: Flex scheduling allows the NFL to move games to prime-time slots later in the season, potentially changing the kickoff time.

Q: Do all Thursday Night Football games start at the same time?

A: Yes, typically Thursday Night Football games start at 8:15 PM ET.

Q: How do international games affect the schedule?

A: International games often have earlier kickoff times to accommodate viewers in different time zones.

In summary, NFL games typically air on Sundays at 1:00 PM ET, 4:05/4:25 PM ET, and 8:20 PM ET (SNF), Mondays at 8:15 PM ET (MNF), and Thursdays at 8:15 PM ET (TNF), but these times can vary due to flex scheduling, holidays, and international games; stay updated via the NFL website, team sites, sports apps, and TV listings.

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