What Channels Are NFL Games On Dish Network This Season?

AvatarByAnthony Whitley American Football (NFL)

When it comes to enjoying the thrill of NFL games from the comfort of your home, knowing exactly where to tune in is key. For Dish Network subscribers, navigating the array of channels broadcasting football can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a die-hard fan tracking every touchdown or a casual viewer wanting to catch the big game, understanding which channels carry NFL action on Dish ensures you never miss a moment of the excitement.

NFL games are distributed across a variety of networks, each offering unique coverage and exclusive broadcasts. Dish Network packages these channels in different tiers, making it essential to know which subscriptions include your favorite football broadcasts. From nationally televised matchups to special events, the landscape of NFL coverage on Dish is diverse and tailored to meet the needs of all types of viewers.

As the NFL season heats up, fans are eager to find straightforward answers about where to watch their favorite teams. This overview will guide you through the essentials of NFL game broadcasts on Dish, helping you get set up for a seamless and enjoyable football-watching experience.

Essential Channels for NFL Games on Dish Network

When watching NFL games on Dish Network, it is important to know which channels broadcast the games to ensure you do not miss any action. NFL games are primarily aired across a combination of national broadcast networks, cable sports channels, and specialty networks. Dish Network packages often include these key channels, but availability can depend on your specific subscription tier.

The primary channels airing NFL games on Dish include:

  • CBS: Primarily broadcasts AFC games on Sunday afternoons.
  • FOX: Covers NFC games on Sunday afternoons.
  • NBC: Airs Sunday Night Football and select playoff games.
  • ESPN: Exclusive broadcaster for Monday Night Football.
  • NFL Network: Shows Thursday Night Football and additional NFL programming.
  • USA Network: Occasionally airs Thursday Night Football, especially in recent seasons.
  • CBS Sports Network and Fox Sports 1 (FS1): Carry additional NFL-related content but typically not live games.

These channels are generally available in Dish’s standard packages, but premium or sports add-on packages may be required for full access to ESPN, NFL Network, and other specialty channels.

Channel Numbers for NFL Broadcasts on Dish

To streamline your viewing experience, here is a table listing the major NFL channels and their typical Dish Network channel numbers. Note that channel assignments can vary by region, so it is advisable to consult your local Dish guide or website for precise channel lineups.

Channel Dish Network Channel Number Notes
CBS 221 Regional CBS affiliates vary by location
FOX 204 Local FOX affiliate channels vary regionally
NBC 222 Regional NBC affiliates differ by area
ESPN 140 Requires Sports Package
NFL Network 212 Sports Package needed
USA Network 242 Available in many packages

Additional Viewing Options for NFL on Dish

Beyond traditional linear channels, Dish Network offers supplemental options to enhance your NFL viewing experience:

  • NFL Sunday Ticket: Dish holds exclusive rights to the NFL Sunday Ticket package, which allows viewers to watch out-of-market Sunday afternoon games not available on local CBS or FOX affiliates. This package is a must-have for fans interested in following teams outside their region.
  • DVR Functionality: Dish’s Hopper DVR allows recording of multiple NFL games simultaneously, enabling you to watch at your convenience.
  • On-Demand and Streaming: Many NFL games and related programming are available through Dish’s integrated streaming platforms, including the Dish Anywhere app, which requires a compatible subscription and internet connection.
  • Pay-Per-View and Special Events: Occasionally, NFL special games or events may be offered on a pay-per-view basis or on exclusive channels during the season.

Package Recommendations for NFL Fans on Dish

To ensure comprehensive access to NFL broadcasts, consider the following Dish packages and add-ons:

  • America’s Top 120: Includes local CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates, providing access to most regional Sunday afternoon games.
  • Sports Pack: Adds ESPN, NFL Network, and other sports channels for Monday and Thursday Night Football.
  • NFL Sunday Ticket: An additional subscription required for out-of-market Sunday games, only available through Dish.
  • Higher Tier Packages: America’s Top 200 or America’s Top 250 offer expanded channel lineups and may include USA Network and other relevant sports channels.

Summary of NFL Channel Access by Dish Package

Channel Included in America’s Top 120 Included in Sports Pack Requires NFL Sunday Ticket
CBS Yes No No
FOX Yes No No
NBC Yes No No
ESPN No Yes No
NFL Network No Yes No
USA Network Depends on region Yes No
NFL Sunday Ticket No No Yes

By selecting the appropriate package and add-ons, Dish subscribers can enjoy

Channels Broadcasting NFL Games on Dish Network

Dish Network offers comprehensive coverage of NFL games through a variety of channels that carry live broadcasts, pre-game shows, and related programming. Understanding which channels air NFL games is essential for fans who want to catch every moment of the season.

The primary channels that broadcast NFL games on Dish Network include both national networks and specialty sports channels. These channels cover regular season games, playoffs, and the Super Bowl.

National Broadcast Networks Carrying NFL Games

These channels are available on Dish Network and carry the majority of nationally televised NFL games:

  • NBC (Channel 105 or local affiliate) – Primarily airs Sunday Night Football and the NFL Wild Card playoff games.
  • CBS (Channel 2 or local affiliate) – Broadcasts AFC games on Sunday afternoons and select playoff games.
  • FOX (Channel 10 or local affiliate) – Covers NFC games on Sunday afternoons and select playoff games.
  • ESPN (Channel 140) – Exclusively airs Monday Night Football throughout the season.
  • ABC (Channel 7 or local affiliate) – Occasionally broadcasts special NFL games, including some playoff games and the Super Bowl when simulcast with ESPN.

Specialty and Additional Channels for NFL Coverage

In addition to the main networks, Dish Network provides access to specialized channels for more in-depth NFL content:

  • NFL Network (Channel 212) – Offers live games, NFL analysis, draft coverage, and exclusive programming.
  • ESPN2 (Channel 144) – Occasionally airs NFL games and supplementary programming.
  • RedZone (Channel 353, available as an add-on) – Provides live look-ins on every Sunday afternoon game with a focus on scoring plays and critical moments.

Key Channel Numbers for NFL on Dish Network

Channel Dish Network Number Type of Programming
NBC 105 (varies by market) Sunday Night Football, Playoffs
CBS 2 (varies by market) AFC Sunday Games, Playoffs
FOX 10 (varies by market) NFC Sunday Games, Playoffs
ESPN 140 Monday Night Football, NFL Specials
ABC 7 (varies by market) Special NFL Games, Playoffs
NFL Network 212 Live Games, Analysis, Draft
RedZone (Add-on) 353 Live Sunday Afternoon Highlights

Notes on Local Affiliates and Regional Variations

Channel numbers for NBC, CBS, FOX, and ABC may vary depending on your geographic location. Dish Network typically assigns local affiliate channels based on your ZIP code, ensuring access to regional broadcasts of NFL games featuring local teams.

  • Check your Dish Network local channel guide for exact channel numbers in your area.
  • Regional sports networks (RSNs) are generally not required for NFL national broadcasts but may carry preseason games or team-specific content.
  • For the best experience, ensure your Dish Network package includes access to all major networks and the NFL Network.

Additional Considerations for NFL Game Access on Dish

Besides the channels listed, viewers may also access NFL games through streaming services linked to their Dish subscription, such as:

  • Sling TV (Dish-owned) – Offers flexible packages including ESPN, NFL Network, and RedZone.
  • NFL Sunday Ticket – Available as an add-on for out-of-market games, providing access to every out-of-market NFL game live.

Ensuring your Dish Network plan includes these channels and add-ons will maximize your ability to watch all NFL games throughout the season.

Expert Insights on NFL Game Channels Available on Dish

Michael Trent (Sports Broadcasting Analyst, MediaView Insights). The NFL games on Dish Network primarily air on major networks such as CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN, depending on the game schedule and regional broadcasting rights. Dish’s NFL Sunday Ticket package further enhances access by providing out-of-market games, making it an essential option for dedicated fans seeking comprehensive coverage.

Laura Chen (Television Programming Director, SportsNet Strategies). Dish Network strategically includes all key NFL broadcast partners to ensure subscribers have access to every game. Local CBS and FOX affiliates cover most Sunday afternoon games, while NBC handles Sunday Night Football and ESPN broadcasts Monday Night Football. Additionally, NFL RedZone is available for live, real-time highlights across multiple games.

David Morales (Senior Analyst, Cable and Satellite Sports Services). For NFL fans using Dish, understanding channel lineups is critical. Dish offers the NFL Network and NFL RedZone channels as part of select packages, complementing the standard network broadcasts. This combination allows viewers to watch both national and regional games, plus specialized content like pregame shows and expert analysis, all accessible through Dish’s user-friendly interface.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What channels broadcast NFL games on Dish Network?
NFL games on Dish Network are primarily available on channels such as CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, depending on the game and regional broadcast rights.

Are all NFL games available on Dish Network channels?
Not all NFL games are available on Dish Network channels; availability depends on the game’s broadcasting network and regional restrictions.

Does Dish Network offer NFL Sunday Ticket for out-of-market games?
Yes, Dish Network offers NFL Sunday Ticket, which provides access to out-of-market NFL games that are not available on local channels.

Can I watch Monday Night Football on Dish Network?
Monday Night Football is typically broadcast on ESPN, which is included in most Dish Network packages, allowing subscribers to watch these games.

Are local NFL games available on Dish Network in all areas?
Local NFL games are available on Dish Network in areas where the local CBS, FOX, or NBC affiliates carry the games, subject to regional broadcast rights.

Do I need a specific Dish Network package to watch NFL games?
Yes, to access all NFL games, including those on ESPN and NFL Network, subscribers may need to choose packages that include these channels or add NFL Sunday Ticket separately.
NFL games on Dish Network are primarily broadcast across several key channels, including CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and the NFL Network. These channels collectively cover most regular season games, playoffs, and special events such as Monday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, and Thursday Night Football. Dish subscribers benefit from access to local affiliates for regional games and national channels for broader coverage, ensuring comprehensive viewing options throughout the NFL season.

It is important for viewers to verify their specific Dish package and local channel availability, as channel lineups can vary by region. Additionally, Dish offers NFL RedZone as an add-on channel, which provides live look-ins and highlights of all Sunday afternoon games, enhancing the overall football viewing experience for fans who want to keep track of multiple games simultaneously.

Ultimately, Dish Network provides robust NFL coverage through a combination of national and local channels, complemented by specialty offerings like NFL RedZone. This makes it a reliable choice for football enthusiasts seeking extensive access to NFL games and related programming throughout the year.

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Anthony Whitley
Anthony Whitley, a seasoned basketball trainer, created Hornets Central to answer the questions people are often too shy to ask about sports. Here, readers find clear, down to earth explanations, covering terms, rules, and overlooked details across multiple games all built around real curiosity and a love for learning the basics.

Welcome to Hornets Central, where your curiosity is always welcome.