Where To Watch The Detroit Lions Game

This guide tells you where to watch the Detroit Lions game, covering TV channels, streaming services, and how to follow along if you can't watch live.

Key Takeaways

• Local Broadcasts: Most Lions games are broadcast on local FOX affiliates in the Detroit area.
• National TV: Games with national broadcasts are available on networks like CBS, NBC, and ESPN.
• Streaming Services: Options include fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and DIRECTV STREAM.
• NFL+ & NFL RedZone: For out-of-market games or live out-of-market game audio, NFL+ is an option. NFL RedZone is great for watching all live NFL action.
• Radio: Lions games are broadcast on terrestrial radio and streaming online.

Introduction to Watching Detroit Lions Games

The Detroit Lions, a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), command a passionate fanbase. Whether you're a lifelong supporter or new to the excitement of the Lions, knowing where and how to catch every game is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the viewing options for Detroit Lions games, ensuring you don't miss a single touchdown, interception, or game-winning field goal.

We'll cover everything from local television broadcasts and national networks to the best streaming services and even radio options for those on the go. Understanding these options will empower you to follow your favorite team no matter where you are or what devices you have available. The aim is to provide a clear, actionable roadmap for accessing Lions games throughout the NFL season. — Giants Game Today: Schedule, News & Updates

Understanding Lions Game Broadcasts: What to Expect

Detroit Lions games, like all NFL matchups, are broadcast through a combination of local and national television networks, as well as various digital streaming platforms. The specific channel or service broadcasting a game depends on several factors, including the opponent, the day of the week, and whether the game has been selected for national syndication.

Local Broadcasts:

For fans located within the Detroit metropolitan area, the vast majority of Lions games are broadcast on their local FOX affiliate. This is due to the NFL's scheduling practices, where NFC teams are typically broadcast on FOX. You can usually find these games on your standard cable or satellite TV package by tuning into the local FOX channel.

National Broadcasts:

Certain Lions games are chosen for national broadcasts, exposing the team to a wider audience across the United States. These games can appear on a variety of networks:

• CBS: Primarily broadcasts AFC games but also carries some NFC matchups, including the Lions, especially if they are playing an AFC opponent or a game is moved.
• NBC: Home of "Sunday Night Football," this network frequently features high-profile NFC games. Lions games on Sunday night are a common occurrence.
• ESPN: Broadcasts "Monday Night Football." If the Lions are scheduled for a Monday night game, you'll find it here.
• Amazon Prime Video: Increasingly, Thursday Night Football games are exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video, though some may still have a broadcast on a local network affiliate.

Flex Scheduling:

The NFL utilizes a flexible scheduling system, particularly in the latter half of the season (typically Weeks 11-17). This allows the league to move games to more favorable time slots (like Sunday or Monday night) if the matchups prove compelling. This means a game initially scheduled for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff could be moved to prime time.

Knowing these broadcast structures helps you anticipate where to find the Lions game each week. However, for definitive weekly schedules, it's always best to check the official NFL website or reputable sports news outlets.

How to Watch Detroit Lions Games Live: TV Channels and Streaming Options

For dedicated fans, catching every moment of the Detroit Lions' season is paramount. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to watch the games live, catering to different viewing preferences and access levels. Whether you prefer traditional television or the flexibility of streaming, you'll find a suitable option.

Traditional Television (Cable & Satellite)

This remains the most straightforward method for many viewers, especially for local broadcasts. — Chicago Red Line Tracker: Real-Time Updates

• Local Channels (FOX): As mentioned, most Lions games will air on your local FOX affiliate. If you have a standard cable or satellite subscription (e.g., Comcast/Xfinity, Spectrum, DirecTV, Dish Network), simply tune into the designated channel for your region on game day.
• National Networks (CBS, NBC, ESPN): If a Lions game is selected for national broadcast, your cable or satellite subscription will provide access to these channels. Ensure your package includes the relevant networks for the week's game.

Live TV Streaming Services

These services offer a way to watch live TV, including sports, over the internet without a traditional cable or satellite subscription. They often provide a more flexible and sometimes more affordable alternative.

• fuboTV: Known for its extensive sports coverage, fuboTV typically includes FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN in its base packages. It's an excellent option for NFL fans.
• Hulu + Live TV: This service bundles live TV channels with Hulu's on-demand library. It includes FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN, making it a strong contender for Lions game viewing.
• Sling TV: A more customizable option. Sling offers different packages. For Lions games, you'd typically want the "Blue" package (which includes FOX and the NFL Network) combined with the "Orange" package (which includes ESPN). Check their specific channel lineups for your region.
• YouTube TV: Offers a comprehensive package that includes all the major broadcast networks (FOX, CBS, NBC) and ESPN, along with many other channels.
• DIRECTV STREAM: This service provides various packages, some of which include all the necessary RSNs and national sports channels. It can be a bit more expensive but offers a wide range of content.

When choosing a streaming service, verify that it includes the local FOX affiliate for your area and the national networks that will be broadcasting the Lions' games throughout the season. Most offer free trials, allowing you to test them out before committing.

Out-of-Market Games & NFL Official Options

If you live outside the Detroit market and want to watch games not broadcast locally, or if you want access to every game, the NFL offers official solutions:

• NFL+: This subscription service allows you to stream live local and primetime regular season and postseason games on your phone or tablet. It also provides out-of-market game audio. NFL+ Premium offers full game replays and condensed games.
• NFL Sunday Ticket (via YouTube TV): Previously exclusive to DirecTV, NFL Sunday Ticket is now available through YouTube TV. This package allows you to watch out-of-market games (games not broadcast on your local channels) live. It's a significant investment but the ultimate solution for out-of-market NFL viewing.
• NFL RedZone: Hosted by Scott Hanson, NFL RedZone airs on the NFL Network and is available through many cable, satellite, and streaming providers. It switches live to every touchdown and key moment from around the league during the 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. ET Sunday games. It does not show full games, but it's perfect for fans who want to follow multiple games or stay updated on all the action.

Following the Lions on Radio and Online Audio

For fans who can't watch the game live on TV or prefer to listen, radio broadcasts and online audio streams are excellent alternatives. This ensures you can stay connected to the Lions' performance wherever you are. — Huntington Beach, CA Zip Codes: Your Complete Guide

Terrestrial Radio Broadcasts

• Flagship Station: In the Detroit area, the primary radio home for the Detroit Lions is WDFN 1130 AM. This station broadcasts all regular season and postseason games.
• Affiliate Stations: The Lions Radio Network includes several affiliate stations across Michigan, ensuring broader coverage. Key affiliates often include stations in Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Flint. It's advisable to check the official Detroit Lions website or WDFN's website for an up-to-date list of affiliate stations each season.

Online Audio Streaming

• WDFN 1130 AM Stream: WDFN often provides a live audio stream of their broadcasts through their website or a dedicated app. This allows you to listen from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.
• NFL+: As mentioned previously, the NFL+ subscription service offers live local and in-market radio game audio for all games. This is a reliable way to listen, especially if you're traveling or outside the typical broadcast range.
• TuneIn Radio App: Many sports radio stations, including those that carry NFL games, are available through the TuneIn Radio app. Check if WDFN or another affiliate is listed and streamable.

How to Find the Official Schedule and Broadcast Information

Staying informed about when and where to watch the Detroit Lions game each week is crucial. The NFL's flexible scheduling and the rotation of broadcast partners mean that game times and channels can change. Fortunately, several reliable sources provide up-to-the-minute information.

1. Official Detroit Lions Website: The team's official site (detroitlions.com) is a primary resource. Navigate to the