Monday Night Football: Start Time & Schedule

Monday Night Football (MNF) is a primetime tradition for NFL fans. Games usually kick off at 8:15 PM Eastern Time, but schedules can vary. This guide covers typical start times, how to watch, and what to expect this season.

Key Takeaways

• Monday Night Football typically starts at 8:15 PM Eastern Time.
• The MNF schedule can vary, so confirm kick-off times weekly.
• MNF airs on ESPN and ABC, with streaming options available.
• Check the full season schedule for specific team matchups and broadcast details.
• Pre-game coverage often begins an hour before kickoff.

Introduction

For football fans, Monday nights mean one thing: Monday Night Football. The excitement of primetime NFL action is a weekly ritual. Knowing the kickoff time is crucial to ensure you don't miss any of the game. While the standard start time is generally consistent, there can be exceptions. This article will provide clarity on typical MNF start times, where to watch, and how to stay updated on any scheduling changes.

What & Why Monday Night Football?

Monday Night Football is a weekly broadcast of a National Football League (NFL) game on Monday evenings. It's a primetime slot, drawing a large audience and featuring some of the league's most prominent teams and matchups. MNF offers high-quality football, in-depth analysis, and a social viewing experience shared by fans nationwide. — South Boston, MA Zip Code: Find It Here!

• Who: The NFL, ESPN/ABC, participating NFL teams, and football fans.
• What: A weekly broadcast of an NFL game on Monday evenings.
• When: Typically, Monday nights during the NFL season (September to January).
• Where: Games are played at the home stadium of one of the participating teams and broadcast nationally.
• Why: To provide a primetime viewing opportunity for NFL fans and maximize viewership and revenue for the league and broadcasters.
• How: Through broadcasting agreements between the NFL and networks like ESPN and ABC, which produce and air the games.

Benefits of Watching Monday Night Football:

• Primetime Action: See top teams and players compete in a featured matchup.
• Social Experience: Join millions of fans watching simultaneously.
• High-Quality Production: Enjoy enhanced coverage and analysis.
• Weekly Ritual: Make MNF a consistent part of your football-watching schedule.

Potential Risks (Scheduling Variations):

• Time Changes: Be aware of occasional changes due to holidays or special events.
• Game Swaps: The NFL can adjust the schedule, so confirm weekly.

How to Find the Monday Night Football Schedule

Finding the Monday Night Football schedule is easy. Here's how: — Valley Stream, NY Zip Code: Everything You Need To Know

1. NFL Official Website: The NFL's website (nfl.com) has the most accurate and up-to-date schedule. You can filter by team, week, and broadcast network.
2. ESPN Website: Since ESPN broadcasts MNF, their website (espn.com) is another excellent resource.
3. Team Websites: Each NFL team's website includes their full schedule, including MNF games.
4. TV Guides: Check your local TV listings or online guides from providers like DirecTV, Xfinity, or Fios.
5. Sports Apps: Apps like the ESPN app, NFL app, and others provide schedules and game updates.

Examples & Use Cases

Let's look at a few examples of how MNF start times might play out: — Morgan Wallen 2026 Tour Dates: Schedule & Tickets

• Typical Game: Most MNF games will kick off at 8:15 PM ET. For example, a game between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants in Week 3 will likely start at this time.
• West Coast Games: If a team on the West Coast is hosting, the start time may be adjusted slightly to accommodate primetime viewing across time zones. It might start at 5:15 PM PT, which is still 8:15 PM ET.
• Holiday Exceptions: On certain holidays, like Thanksgiving week, the schedule might shift. A game might be moved to a different day or time, so always double-check the listings.
• Late Season Flex Scheduling: In the later weeks of the season, the NFL can “flex” games into the MNF slot, meaning they can swap a less compelling game for a more exciting one. This might involve a change in the original start time.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes for Watching MNF

Best Practices:

• Confirm the Schedule Weekly: Always verify the start time, especially later in the season.
• Set Reminders: Use your phone or calendar to remind you of the game time.
• Pre-Game Coverage: Tune in early for pre-game analysis and commentary.
• Streaming Options: If you can't watch on TV, explore streaming options like ESPN+ or the ESPN app.
• Social Viewing: Plan to watch with friends or join online discussions during the game.

Common Mistakes:

• Assuming Start Time: Don't assume the game is always at 8:15 PM ET.
• Missing Time Zone Adjustments: Be mindful of time zone differences if you're not in the Eastern Time Zone.
• Ignoring Flex Scheduling: Flex scheduling can change games late in the season.
• Relying on Old Information: Use up-to-date schedules from reliable sources.

FAQs About Monday Night Football

1. What time does Monday Night Football usually start?

Typically, Monday Night Football games start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time.

2. Where can I watch Monday Night Football?

MNF airs on ESPN and ABC. You can also stream it via the ESPN app, ESPN+, and other streaming services that carry ESPN and ABC.

3. How can I find the Monday Night Football schedule?

The schedule is available on NFL.com, ESPN.com, team websites, and TV listing guides.

4. Does the start time ever change?

Yes, the start time can change due to flex scheduling, holidays, or other special circumstances. Always verify the schedule for the specific week.

5. What is flex scheduling?

Flex scheduling allows the NFL to change the schedule in the later weeks of the season to ensure more compelling matchups are featured in primetime slots like MNF.

6. What should I do if I can’t watch the game live?

You can record the game or watch replays on ESPN+, NFL Game Pass, or other streaming services.

Conclusion with CTA

Knowing the start time for Monday Night Football is essential for any NFL fan. With games generally kicking off at 8:15 PM ET, you can plan your Monday evenings accordingly. Remember to check the weekly schedule for any changes. Now, grab your snacks, put on your favorite team’s jersey, and get ready for some football! Visit NFL.com or ESPN.com for the latest Monday Night Football schedule and news.

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 14:38 UTC