Where To Watch Chicago Bears Games Live

The Chicago Bears are one of the most historic franchises in the NFL, with a passionate fanbase eager to follow every game. Whether you're at home or on the go, knowing where to watch your beloved Bears is crucial for game day. This guide provides comprehensive options for tuning into every Bears broadcast this season, covering traditional TV, streaming services, and even options for out-of-market fans.

Key Takeaways

• Local Broadcasts: Most Bears games are broadcast locally on FOX or CBS in the Chicago area. Check your local listings.
• National Broadcasts: Games airing nationally on NBC (Sunday Night Football), ESPN (Monday Night Football), or Amazon Prime Video (Thursday Night Football) are accessible through respective platforms or national cable.
• Streaming Services: Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV offer live local and national channels to stream games.
• Out-of-Market: NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube is the primary way to watch all out-of-market games.
• Radio: WSCR 670 AM 'The Score' is the flagship radio station for live game audio.

Introduction

For fans of the Chicago Bears, the roar of the crowd and the thrill of game day are unparalleled. As the NFL season unfolds, ensuring you don't miss a single touchdown, interception, or crucial defensive stand is paramount. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the essential avenues for watching Chicago Bears games live, whether you're a local fan or supporting the team from afar. We'll cover everything from traditional over-the-air television and popular cable packages to the ever-expanding world of live TV streaming and the definitive solution for out-of-market viewers.

What Are Your Options for Watching Bears Games?

The question of "where to watch Bears games" has multiple answers, depending on your location, subscription services, and preferences. Understanding these options ensures you're always in the loop on game day.

1. Local Network Broadcasts (Over-the-Air TV)

The most straightforward way to watch most Chicago Bears games is through local network television. The NFL uses a flexible scheduling system, but games are primarily broadcast on two networks:

• FOX: This network typically airs NFC games, which includes the majority of Bears contests.
• CBS: This network airs AFC games, but will occasionally broadcast a Bears game if they are playing an AFC opponent.

How it works: If you live within the Chicago market, simply tune your television to the local FOX or CBS affiliate on game day. You'll need a digital antenna to pick up these over-the-air signals, which are free and broadcast in high definition.

Pros:

• Free if you have an antenna.
• High-definition quality.
• Simple to access for local viewers.

Cons:

• Limited to games broadcast on FOX or CBS.
• Requires a digital antenna and proper setup.
• Not an option for out-of-market fans.

2. National Broadcasts

Certain high-profile or strategically important Bears games are selected for national broadcasts. These games allow fans across the country to watch, but they require access to specific channels or streaming platforms.

• NBC (Sunday Night Football): Often features marquee matchups, including potentially the Bears. Requires NBC.
• ESPN (Monday Night Football): Monday night games are broadcast here. Requires ESPN.
• Amazon Prime Video (Thursday Night Football): This is the exclusive home for most Thursday night games. Requires an Amazon Prime subscription and the Prime Video app.
• NFL Network: Occasionally airs games, often on Saturdays later in the season or as flexed games.

How it works: Depending on the network, you'll need either a cable or satellite subscription that includes the specific channel or a streaming service that carries it. For Amazon Prime Video, a subscription to Amazon Prime is necessary.

Pros:

• Access to games not available on local networks.
• Often feature prime-time matchups.

Cons:

• Requires specific, often higher-tier, cable packages or subscriptions.
• Amazon Prime Video exclusive can be a barrier for non-subscribers.

3. Live TV Streaming Services

Live TV streaming services have become a popular alternative to traditional cable, offering a bundle of channels that often include the ones needed to watch Bears games. These services stream content over the internet, making them accessible on various devices.

• YouTube TV: Offers a comprehensive package that includes FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. It's a strong contender for watching all local and national games.
• Hulu + Live TV: Similar to YouTube TV, this service includes most major sports channels, including FOX, CBS, and ESPN. It also offers NFL Network in some packages.
• Sling TV: A more budget-friendly option. Sling's 'Blue' package includes local FOX and NBC affiliates in select markets, plus ESPN. The 'Orange' package includes ESPN. Combining them offers a robust sports lineup. NFL Network might require an add-on.
• FuboTV: Originally focused on international sports, FuboTV now offers a wide array of sports channels, including FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN, making it a viable option for Bears fans.

How it works: Sign up for a monthly subscription. You can stream on smart TVs, computers, smartphones, and streaming devices like Roku or Apple TV. Most services offer free trials, allowing you to test them out.

Pros:

• Access to a wide range of channels, including local and national sports networks.
• Flexibility to cancel or switch services monthly.
• Stream on multiple devices.
• Often include DVR capabilities.

Cons:

• Monthly subscription cost.
• Requires a stable internet connection.
• Channel availability can vary by location for local networks.

4. NFL Sunday Ticket (YouTube TV)

For fans living outside the Chicago metropolitan area, watching every single Bears game can be a challenge. If a game isn't being broadcast nationally or in your local market, it will likely be an "out-of-market" game. This is where NFL Sunday Ticket comes in.

What it is: NFL Sunday Ticket, now exclusively offered through YouTube and YouTube TV, allows subscribers to watch every out-of-market NFL game (games not broadcast on your local channels or nationally) every Sunday afternoon.

How it works: You need a subscription to NFL Sunday Ticket. This can be purchased as an add-on to a YouTube TV subscription or as a standalone package directly through YouTube (if you don't have YouTube TV).

Pros:

• The only way to guarantee watching every single out-of-market NFL game.
• Includes all Sunday afternoon games across the league.

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially as a premium add-on.
• Only covers Sunday afternoon games; national broadcasts (SNF, MNF, TNF) must be accessed separately.

5. NFL+ and NFL RedZone

• NFL+: This subscription service offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices (phones and tablets only). It also provides out-of-market preseason games and every game on-demand after completion. However, its live viewing is restricted to mobile devices, which isn't ideal for a living room experience.
• NFL RedZone: This channel, often available as an add-on through streaming services or cable packages, focuses on showing every touchdown from every Sunday afternoon game. It's a great way to stay engaged with multiple games simultaneously, including the Bears, but it doesn't show full games.

How it works: Subscribe directly through the NFL or via an add-on package with a streaming provider. — Advance Auto Parts Greenville NC: Locations & Services

Pros:

• NFL+ offers flexibility for mobile viewing.
• NFL RedZone provides a dynamic, touchdown-focused viewing experience.

Cons:

• NFL+ live streaming is limited to mobile devices.
• NFL RedZone does not show full games.

6. Radio Broadcasts

For fans who can't watch live but want to follow the game's action, radio broadcasts are an excellent alternative. The official flagship station for the Chicago Bears is:

• WSCR 670 AM 'The Score': This all-sports radio station provides live play-by-play coverage of every Bears game.

How it works: Tune into 670 AM on your radio. Many streaming services also offer live radio streams of local stations, and the NFL+ app provides live local and primetime game audio.

Pros:

• Free with a radio.
• Engaging commentary keeps you updated.
• Accessible on the go.

Cons:

• Audio only; lacks visual element.
• Requires being within range of the radio signal or using a streaming service.

How to Determine Which Game is Being Broadcast Where

With flexible scheduling and multiple broadcast partners, knowing which channel will carry the Bears game each week is essential. Here's how to stay informed:

1. Official NFL Schedule: The easiest way is to check the official NFL website (NFL.com) or the NFL app. They list the broadcast network for each game.
2. Team Website/Social Media: The Chicago Bears' official website and their social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook) will announce the broadcast details for upcoming games.
3. Local TV Listings: Your cable provider's guide or local news websites will clearly show which channel is broadcasting the game, especially for local FOX/CBS affiliates.
4. Sports Apps: Apps like ESPN, CBS Sports, or Bleacher Report will often provide game day information, including broadcast channels.

Key Considerations for Game Broadcasts:

• Week of the Game: For many mid-to-late season games, the broadcast network can change due to flexible scheduling. Always verify closer to game day.
• Location: Your physical location determines whether you get the game on a local FOX or CBS channel or if it's an out-of-market broadcast requiring NFL Sunday Ticket.
• National vs. Local: National games (SNF, MNF, TNF) override local broadcast plans for those specific matchups.

Example Scenarios: Where Would You Watch?

Let's break down a few common scenarios to illustrate the best way to watch:

• Scenario 1: You live in Chicago and the Bears are playing the Packers on Sunday afternoon.

  • Likely Broadcast: FOX (NFC matchup).
  • Where to Watch: Your local FOX affiliate (over-the-air antenna, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, FuboTV).

• Scenario 2: You live in Chicago, and the Bears are playing on Thursday Night Football.

  • Likely Broadcast: Amazon Prime Video.
  • Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video app (requires Prime subscription).

• Scenario 3: You live in Denver, and the Bears are playing the Broncos on Sunday afternoon.

  • Likely Broadcast: Your local CBS affiliate (if it's an AFC game or cross-flexed) OR it will be an out-of-market game on FOX/CBS.
  • Where to Watch: If it's your local CBS affiliate, use an antenna or a streaming service. If it's out-of-market (e.g., Chicago's FOX affiliate is showing a different game locally), you'll need NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube/YouTube TV to watch the Bears game.

• Scenario 4: You live in New York City, and the Bears are playing on Monday Night Football.

  • Likely Broadcast: ESPN.
  • Where to Watch: Any live TV streaming service or cable package that includes ESPN (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, FuboTV).

Best Practices and Common Mistakes

Best Practices:

• Confirm Your Subscription: Before the season starts, ensure your chosen streaming service or cable package includes all the necessary channels (FOX, CBS, ESPN, NBC, NFL Network).
• Check Local Channels: If you're relying on over-the-air TV, test your antenna setup and check local channel listings well before kickoff.
• Utilize Free Trials: Take advantage of free trials offered by streaming services to test their performance and channel lineup.
• Plan for Out-of-Market: If you frequently travel or live away from Chicago, factor in the cost and logistics of NFL Sunday Ticket.
• Have a Backup: Internet outages or technical glitches can happen. Consider having a radio as a backup.

Common Mistakes:

• Assuming Availability: Don't assume a game will be on your local channel. Always verify the broadcast network.
• Forgetting Time Zones: Be mindful of kickoff times, especially if traveling.
• Underestimating Costs: Bundling services or adding premium packages can increase monthly bills significantly.
• Relying Solely on Mobile: While NFL+ is an option, watching on a larger screen is generally preferred for a better fan experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I watch Bears games on my phone?

A1: Yes, you can watch Bears games on your phone through most live TV streaming apps (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, etc.) by logging into your account. NFL+ also allows live local and primetime games on phones and tablets. — Jon Jones' Brothers: What Happened?

Q2: How can I watch Chicago Bears games for free?

A2: The primary way to watch for free is by using a digital antenna to pick up local FOX and CBS broadcasts if you are in the Chicago market. Some streaming services offer free trials.

Q3: What channel is the Bears game on this Sunday?

A3: This varies weekly. Check the official NFL schedule, the Bears' website, or your local TV listings closer to game day, as broadcast networks (FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, Amazon) change based on scheduling.

Q4: Is the Bears game available on ESPN+?

A4: ESPN+ typically does not broadcast live NFL games, including Bears games. Live NFL games are usually found on ESPN (for Monday Night Football) or other networks. ESPN+ is more for original content, international leagues, and other sports.

Q5: How do I watch Bears games if I don't have cable?

A5: You can watch Bears games without cable using live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, or FuboTV. For out-of-market games, you'll need NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube.

Q6: What is the best streaming service to watch the Bears?

A6: YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are often considered among the best for Bears fans as they offer a comprehensive channel lineup including local networks and major sports channels. Sling TV is a more budget-friendly option. Your choice depends on your budget and desired channels. — Garuda Vega: Shipping From India To The USA

Conclusion: Never Miss a Bears Game Again

Following your Chicago Bears is a year-round passion, and staying connected on game day is essential. Whether you're enjoying the crisp autumn air in Chicago with an antenna, catching up with friends via a live TV streaming service, or cheering from afar with NFL Sunday Ticket, there's a viewing option for every fan. By understanding the broadcast landscape—from local networks and national partners to the convenience of streaming—you can ensure your game day ritual remains uninterrupted. Choose the method that best suits your viewing habits and budget, and get ready for another exciting season of Chicago Bears football.

Ready to secure your game day spot? Explore the streaming services mentioned above to find the package that fits your needs and start watching the Bears today!

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Last updated: October 26, 2023, 10:00 UTC