As technology continues to alter how we consume sports, this Friday night’s preseason game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers will only be available on streaming services. With broadcast rights shifting and traditional TV networks becoming increasingly marginalized, fans will have to rely on digital alternatives to watch live action.
Cord-cutters and fans alike will watch this highly anticipated battle on platforms such as NFL+, Amazon Prime, and regional sports network streaming services. This transition follows a rising trend across major sports leagues and broadcasters toward digital delivery, which is being pushed by widespread streaming adoption and demand for on-the-go content access.
Why the switch to streaming?
The NFL has been experimenting with exclusive streaming for some time, understanding that its younger audience is more inclined to watch games on mobile devices and laptops than traditional cable. Friday’s game is part of a larger push to update and broaden access to NFL programming, ensuring that fans can watch wherever they are. The league elected to make the Eagles-Packers game available exclusively through its digital partners.
This change also foreshadows what is to come during the regular season. More games are expected to be televised solely online as networks attempt to reach a larger, more tech-savvy audience. Streaming partners like Amazon have made significant investments in acquiring NFL rights, establishing themselves as essential stakeholders in the future of sports broadcasting.
What Does This Mean for the Viewers?
For fans used to watching games on television, this is a considerable shift from the norm. If you don’t already have a subscription to one of the streaming services that provide the game, you should sign up right now. NFL+ offers a direct means to view out-of-market preseason games, whereas Amazon Prime and other platforms may have localized choices. Subscribers to various regional sports networks may also be able to access the game through their respective apps.
This transition may be a little frustrating for some, but it is an unavoidable progression in the way sports are consumed. With more people “cutting the cord” and traditional TV ratings falling, the future of sports entertainment will rely more on digital streaming, allowing leagues to reach a more diversified and worldwide audience.
How To Watch?
NFL+: This package provides access to out-of-market preseason games, making it an excellent choice for those who watch the Eagles and Packers from afar.
Amazon Prime: As part of its increasing collaboration with the NFL, Amazon is set to offer live broadcasts of certain preseason games, including Friday night’s game.
Local Sports Network Apps: whether you live in the Philadelphia or Green Bay areas, check with your local sports network provider to see whether they are streaming the game on their app.
Make sure your streaming setup is ready ahead of time so you don’t miss any action. As the NFL continues to experiment with digital-only broadcasts, this could be a sign of things to come for the 2024 season and beyond.
To summarize, if you want to watch the Eagles and Packers face battle on Friday, you’ll need to embrace the streaming revolution.
