Monday Night Football: Where To Watch

Nick Leason

-Nov 4, 2025

The NFL's premier weekly matchup, Monday Night Football (MNF), captivates millions across the United States. Broadcast on ESPN and ABC, MNF features some of the league's most anticipated games, often with playoff implications. Understanding where and how to watch these games is crucial for any dedicated fan.

Key Takeaways

Monday Night Football is primarily broadcast on ESPN and ABC.
Streaming options include ESPN+, Hulu, and other live TV streaming services.
Local broadcasts on ABC may vary based on your location and NFL scheduling.
International viewers have specific broadcast partners depending on their region.

Introduction

Monday Night Football has been a cornerstone of NFL viewing for decades, offering fans a prime-time spectacle every week during the regular season. Since its inception, MNF has evolved from a simple television broadcast to a multi-platform viewing experience. This article will detail precisely where you can find every Monday Night Football game, covering traditional television, streaming services, and international options, ensuring you don't miss a single snap.

What is Monday Night Football and Why is it Important?

Monday Night Football is a weekly television broadcast of National Football League (NFL) games, typically aired on Monday evenings during the NFL season. It began in 1970 as the first nationally televised weekly professional football game, revolutionizing sports broadcasting. Its importance stems from several factors:

High-Profile Matchups: MNF often features marquee teams and compelling rivalries, drawing significant viewership.
National Exposure: It provides a consistent national platform for the NFL, showcasing the league's star players and storylines.
Cultural Phenomenon: MNF has become a cultural institution, with families and friends gathering to watch the game each week.
Broadcasting Innovation: It pioneered many broadcasting techniques and has consistently sought to enhance the viewing experience.

While the broadcast rights have shifted slightly over the years, the core appeal and importance of Monday Night Football remain undiminished. Understanding its broadcast details is essential for fans. — How To Watch Jaguars Vs. Texans: Streaming, TV, More

Where to Watch Monday Night Football

Accessing Monday Night Football depends on your location and preferred viewing method. The primary broadcasters are ESPN and ABC, with additional streaming options available. — Moldovan Election Results: Key Takeaways

Traditional Television Broadcasts

ESPN: As the primary home of Monday Night Football since 2006, ESPN broadcasts the majority of MNF games. This includes all playoff games that fall under the MNF package.

ABC: While ESPN is the main network, ABC also airs a select number of Monday Night Football games each season. These are often high-profile matchups or games that are part of a special broadcast rotation. If a game is broadcast on ABC, it is typically also available on ESPN, though the broadcast teams might differ.

Streaming Services

For cord-cutters or those who prefer digital viewing, several streaming services offer access to Monday Night Football:

ESPN+: This is the most direct streaming option, as ESPN+ subscribers can watch live games broadcast on ESPN. It's important to note that ESPN+ often features additional NFL content, but live MNF games are tied to the main ESPN broadcast.
Hulu: Since Hulu + Live TV includes ESPN in its channel lineup, Hulu subscribers can watch Monday Night Football live. This is a popular choice for those who want a comprehensive live TV package that includes sports.
YouTube TV: Similar to Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV offers ESPN and ABC, making it a viable option for streaming MNF.
Sling TV: Sling TV's Orange package includes ESPN. Users can subscribe to Sling TV and access MNF through the ESPN channel.
Other Live TV Streaming Services: Many other services like FuboTV and DirecTV Stream that carry ESPN and ABC will also provide access to Monday Night Football games.

When choosing a streaming service, verify that it includes both ESPN and ABC, as local ABC affiliates might not always be available on every platform in every market.

Local Broadcasts

If a Monday Night Football game is scheduled to air on ABC in your region, you can typically watch it using a digital antenna. This is a free over-the-air broadcast, provided you are within range of the local ABC affiliate's signal. This method offers a direct, high-quality feed without requiring a subscription.

International Broadcasts

For fans outside the United States, Monday Night Football is available through various international broadcasters and streaming platforms. These vary by country and region:

Canada: TSN and RDS are the primary broadcasters for NFL games, including Monday Night Football.
United Kingdom: Sky Sports typically carries a selection of NFL games, often including MNF.
Australia: ESPN Australia and Kayo Sports are common platforms for NFL broadcasts.
Other Regions: Many countries have dedicated sports channels or NFL Game Pass International that offer access to live games.

It is advisable for international viewers to check the specific NFL broadcast rights in their country to determine the most reliable way to watch.

How to Tune In: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing how you watch Monday Night Football is a personal decision based on your access to technology and subscription services. Here’s a general guide:

Check the Schedule: First, identify which Monday Night Football game you want to watch and confirm its broadcast channel (ESPN or ABC). NFL.com and major sports news outlets provide up-to-date schedules.
Determine Your Viewing Method: Decide if you will use traditional cable/satellite TV, a streaming service, or an over-the-air antenna.
Access the Broadcast:
- Cable/Satellite: Tune your TV to the channel carrying the game (ESPN or your local ABC affiliate).
- Streaming Service (e.g., ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV): Open the app or website for your chosen service, navigate to the live TV section, and select ESPN or ABC.
- Over-the-Air Antenna: Scan for channels using your antenna and tune into your local ABC affiliate if the game is broadcast there.
Log In (if applicable): For streaming services, you will need to log in with your account credentials.
Enjoy the Game: Settle in and enjoy the action!

Factors Affecting Broadcasts

Several factors can influence where you see Monday Night Football:

NFL Scheduling Changes: While rare, the NFL can flex games into or out of the Monday night slot for competitive or scheduling reasons. Always check the official NFL schedule.
Local Blackouts: In some rare instances, local broadcasts on ABC might be subject to blackouts, though this is less common with national networks like ESPN.
Streaming Service Availability: Ensure your chosen streaming service carries the specific channel broadcasting the game in your region.

Monday Night Football Examples and Use Cases

Monday Night Football isn't just about watching a game; it's about experiencing NFL history unfold live. Here are a few scenarios where understanding MNF's broadcast details is key: — Walmart Mt Zion IL: Your Local Shopping Guide

The Casual Fan: A casual fan might only tune in for a few big games a season. They might check their local ABC listing or quickly access ESPN+ on their phone during a commercial break.
The Dedicated Fan: A season ticket holder or die-hard fan of a particular team might ensure they have a subscription to a service like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV to catch every Monday night game involving their team or significant matchups.
The Fantasy Football Manager: For fantasy players, staying updated on Monday Night Football is crucial, as the games often feature players who can swing fantasy leagues. They might rely on ESPN+ for instant access to the broadcast.
The International Fan: A fan living abroad might subscribe to NFL Game Pass International or seek out local sports channels like Sky Sports to follow their favorite team or the league's marquee game.

Each of these scenarios highlights the need for a clear understanding of how and where to access Monday Night Football broadcasts.

Best Practices for Watching MNF

To maximize your Monday Night Football viewing experience, consider these best practices:

Verify Your Subscription: Before the season starts or before a critical game, double-check that your cable, satellite, or streaming service subscription includes ESPN and, if applicable, your local ABC affiliate.
Test Your Setup: If you're trying a new streaming service or antenna setup, test it well before kickoff to ensure smooth playback.
Utilize Multiple Devices: Many streaming services allow you to watch on various devices (smart TVs, phones, tablets). Have a backup device ready in case of technical issues.
Check Local Listings: For ABC broadcasts, always confirm with your local TV guide, as channel numbers and availability can vary.
Stay Informed: Follow the NFL and ESPN on social media or check their official websites for any last-minute schedule changes or broadcast updates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming Availability: Don't assume every streaming service carries every channel. Verify ESPN and ABC are included.
Forgetting Time Zones: Remember that game times are often listed in Eastern Time. Adjust accordingly for your local time zone.
Missing Out on Free Options: If ABC is broadcasting locally, a simple digital antenna might be all you need, saving you subscription costs.
Ignoring International Options: If you're abroad, don't assume US-based services will work. Research international broadcast partners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is Monday Night Football always on ESPN?

A1: Monday Night Football is primarily broadcast on ESPN, but ABC also airs a select number of games each season. Always check the official NFL schedule for the specific broadcast channel.

Q2: Can I watch Monday Night Football for free?

A2: Yes, if the game is broadcast on your local ABC affiliate and you have a digital antenna capable of receiving the over-the-air signal, you can watch it for free.

Q3: Does the NFL app stream Monday Night Football?

A3: The NFL app typically streams games broadcast on local networks (like Sunday afternoon games on CBS/FOX) or national games through specific partnerships, but live Monday Night Football is usually accessed through ESPN or ESPN+.

Q4: What happens if my streaming service doesn't have ESPN?

A4: If your streaming service does not include ESPN, you will not be able to watch the games broadcast on that network. You would need to switch to a service that includes ESPN or find an alternative viewing method.

Q5: Are playoff games broadcast on Monday Night Football available on ESPN?

A5: Yes, playoff games that fall under the Monday Night Football package are typically available on ESPN. This includes Wild Card and Divisional Round games if they are designated as MNF broadcasts.

Q6: How can I watch Monday Night Football if I don't have cable?

A6: Without cable, you can watch Monday Night Football by subscribing to a live TV streaming service that includes ESPN and ABC (like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or Sling TV), or by using a digital antenna for ABC broadcasts.

Conclusion

Monday Night Football remains a premier event in American sports, and ensuring you know where to watch it is key to enjoying the NFL season. Whether you're a dedicated fan with a cable subscription, a cord-cutter utilizing streaming services like ESPN+ or Hulu, or simply looking for a free over-the-air broadcast on ABC via antenna, there are numerous ways to catch every touchdown and thrilling finish. Always verify the broadcast channel and your access method before kickoff to avoid missing any of the action.

Ready to catch this week's Monday Night Football? Ensure your favorite streaming service or TV package includes ESPN and ABC, or set up your digital antenna for local ABC broadcasts.

Last updated: June 14, 2024, 10:00 UTC