Understanding what time are NFL games is crucial for fans across the United States. From the thrilling kickoffs on Sunday afternoons to the primetime clashes under the lights, the National Football League provides a diverse schedule. Fans eagerly search for information on when their favorite teams play. This guide explains the typical game windows during the regular season and special events like playoffs. Knowing the standard start times helps you plan your weekends and weeknights around the exciting action. Stay informed about what time are NFL games to never miss a moment of the gridiron excitement. Whether you are following a specific team or enjoying the overall league, having this schedule insight makes all the difference for US football enthusiasts. The game timings are designed to accommodate various viewing preferences and time zones. Always check official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule details.
What time do NFL games usually start on Sunday?
On Sundays, NFL games typically kick off at either 1:00 PM Eastern Time for the early slate or 4:05 PM ET/4:25 PM ET for the later afternoon matchups. These staggered starts allow fans across the US to enjoy a full day of football. Always check official schedules for precise kickoff times. Knowing what time are NFL games is essential.
What time is Thursday Night Football?
Thursday Night Football games generally begin at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. These primetime contests are primarily broadcast on Amazon Prime Video. Sometimes, local affiliates may simulcast the game. It is a highly anticipated start to the weekly NFL action. Make sure to verify local listings for specific details about what time are NFL games on Thursdays.
What time does Monday Night Football begin?
Monday Night Football usually starts at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. These prominent matchups are typically featured on ESPN and occasionally simulcast on ABC. It provides a thrilling conclusion to the NFL's weekly schedule. Fans eagerly await these evening games. Checking local TV guides will confirm the exact start time for what time are NFL games on Mondays.
Are NFL games streamed online? What time are NFL games available?
Yes, many NFL games are streamed online through various services. Platforms such as NFL+, Peacock, Paramount+, and YouTube TV offer live access. Amazon Prime Video also streams Thursday Night Football. Availability may depend on your location and subscription. Always verify service specifics and blackout rules to know what time are NFL games online.
How do time zones affect what time are NFL games?
Time zones significantly alter the local viewing experience for NFL games. For instance, a 1:00 PM ET kickoff will be 10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, and 12:00 PM CT. Always convert the Eastern Time start to your local time zone. Most official schedules list times in ET to provide a consistent reference for what time are NFL games.
What time is the Super Bowl?
The Super Bowl, the NFL's championship game, typically kicks off in the early evening, often around 6:30 PM Eastern Time. The exact start time can vary slightly each year based on broadcast schedules. It is a global event drawing massive viewership. Confirming the specific year's Super Bowl kickoff time through official announcements is always recommended.
For millions across the United States, knowing what time are NFL games is a weekly ritual. The National Football League structures its schedule to offer exciting matchups from early afternoon to late night. Whether you are a dedicated fan or a casual viewer, understanding these typical game windows helps you plan your football viewing experience. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the various kickoff times for NFL games throughout the season, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.
The NFL season, including 2026, generally follows a predictable pattern for game timings. Sundays remain the traditional football day, packed with multiple matchups. Primetime slots on Thursday, Sunday, and Monday evenings also draw massive audiences. Special events like Thanksgiving Day games and playoff contests feature unique scheduling. Fans always seek the most accurate information on what time are NFL games.
Typical NFL Game Times: What Time Are NFL Games
Most regular season NFL games fall into specific time slots, making it easier for fans to anticipate. These standard times are primarily set for the Eastern Time Zone. West Coast viewers adjust accordingly to their local times. Understanding these patterns is key for enjoying the NFL season.
Sunday Afternoon Games What Time Are NFL Games
Sundays are synonymous with NFL football. The bulk of the week's games occur during two main afternoon windows. The early slate of games typically kicks off at 1:00 PM Eastern Time. The later afternoon games usually begin around 4:05 PM ET or 4:25 PM ET. These staggered start times allow fans to watch multiple games throughout the day.
Primetime NFL Games What Time Are NFL Games
Primetime games offer nationally televised matchups with high stakes. These games are a highlight of the NFL week. Thursday Night Football usually starts at 8:15 PM ET. Sunday Night Football, a marquee event, begins at 8:20 PM ET. Monday Night Football traditionally kicks off at 8:15 PM ET. These evening games cap off the weekly football action.
Special Event NFL Game Times What Time Are NFL Games
Certain holidays and postseason games have unique start times. Thanksgiving Day always features three NFL games. These typically begin at 12:30 PM ET, 4:30 PM ET, and 8:20 PM ET. Playoff games and the Super Bowl have variable start times, often in the late afternoon or early evening. Always check official schedules for these important matchups.
Here is a general overview of what time are NFL games during the regular season:
| Day | Typical Kickoff Time (Eastern Time) | Primary Broadcaster |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday (Early) | 1:00 PM ET | CBS, FOX |
| Sunday (Late) | 4:05 PM ET / 4:25 PM ET | CBS, FOX |
| Sunday Night Football | 8:20 PM ET | NBC |
| Monday Night Football | 8:15 PM ET | ESPN / ABC |
| Thursday Night Football | 8:15 PM ET | Amazon Prime Video |
| Thanksgiving Day (Early) | 12:30 PM ET | CBS / FOX |
| Thanksgiving Day (Mid) | 4:30 PM ET | CBS / FOX |
| Thanksgiving Day (Late) | 8:20 PM ET | NBC |
What Others Are Asking? About What Time Are NFL Games
What time do NFL games usually start on Sunday?
On Sundays, NFL games typically start in two main windows. The early slate of games kicks off at 1:00 PM Eastern Time. Later afternoon games usually begin at 4:05 PM ET or 4:25 PM ET. These times are set to provide a full day of football viewing for fans across the United States. Always verify specific game times.
What time is Thursday Night Football?
Thursday Night Football games generally kick off at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. These primetime matchups are often broadcast on Amazon Prime Video, with some games potentially simulcast on local networks. It is a popular start to the NFL's weekly action. Viewers should check local listings for exact details.
What time does Monday Night Football begin?
Monday Night Football typically starts at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. These highly anticipated games are usually broadcast on ESPN and sometimes simulcast on ABC. Monday Night Football offers a thrilling end to the NFL week. Fans enjoy these primetime matchups under the lights to conclude their football watching.
Are NFL games streamed online? What time are NFL games available?
Yes, many NFL games are streamed online through various platforms. Services like NFL+, Paramount+, Peacock, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime Video offer live streaming. Exact availability depends on your subscription and regional blackout rules. Primetime games are often widely accessible, but check your local listings and service provider.
How do time zones affect what time are NFL games?
Time zones significantly impact when NFL games appear locally. For example, a 1:00 PM ET game starts at 10:00 AM PT for West Coast viewers. Always adjust the Eastern Time kickoff to your specific local time zone. This ensures you tune in at the correct moment. Most official schedules display times in ET.
FAQ About What Time Are NFL Games
Who broadcasts NFL games in the US?
Major broadcasters include CBS, FOX, NBC for Sunday games, ESPN and ABC for Monday Night Football, and Amazon Prime Video for Thursday Night Football. These networks share the extensive NFL schedule. Specific game assignments vary week by week. Always check local listings.
What is the typical length of an NFL game?
An average NFL game, including stoppages, timeouts, and halftime, usually lasts about three hours and twelve minutes. Actual playing time is much shorter. Overtime, if necessary, adds to the total duration. Plan accordingly for this immersive sports experience.
Why do NFL game times vary?
NFL game times vary to accommodate different broadcast windows, national interest, and geographical distribution. Staggered start times on Sundays allow for more viewing options. Primetime slots maximize viewership for marquee matchups. Special events also influence scheduling decisions. It ensures broad appeal.
How can I find the exact start time for an NFL game?
To find exact start times for any NFL game, consult official sources. The official NFL website, team websites, and reputable sports news outlets like ESPN or CBS Sports provide up-to-date schedules. Your local TV listings guide is also a reliable resource. Always cross-reference for accuracy.
NFL games primarily occur on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday. Sunday afternoon games typically start at 1:00 PM ET and 4:05/4:25 PM ET. Primetime games include Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football, and Thursday Night Football. Special games like Thanksgiving and playoffs have unique start times. Official league websites and team schedules provide the most accurate timing. Time zones significantly impact local game viewing times.