The Detroit Lions have a passionate fan base eager to catch every game, every play, and every touchdown. Whether the Lions are playing at Ford Field or on the road, fans are constantly asking, “What channel is the Lions game on?” With the ever-changing landscape of sports broadcasting, it can be confusing to know where to tune in. This guide will provide all the information you need to watch the Detroit Lions in action.
National Broadcasts: Networks Carrying Lions Games
The Detroit Lions’ games are broadcast on a variety of networks, depending on the day and the type of matchup. Here’s a breakdown of the channels that typically air Lions games:
- FOX: FOX is the primary network for NFC games, and since the Detroit Lions are part of the NFC, many of their games will air on this channel. Most Sunday afternoon games, especially those with an early start (1:00 PM ET), are broadcast on FOX. To catch these games, check your local FOX affiliate station.
- CBS: Although CBS primarily airs AFC games, they occasionally broadcast NFC games, including those of the Lions, especially during inter-conference matchups. If the Lions are playing against an AFC opponent, there’s a chance the game will be on CBS.
- NBC (Sunday Night Football): If the Lions are selected for a Sunday Night Football game, the game will be broadcast on NBC. These games are scheduled for prime time and are a highlight of the NFL week. Make sure to check your local NBC channel to watch the Lions under the bright lights.
- ESPN (Monday Night Football): Monday Night Football games are a staple of NFL fandom, and if the Lions are scheduled to play on Monday night, the game will be aired on ESPN. This is a great opportunity to catch the Lions in a marquee matchup against another top team.
- NFL Network: Occasionally, the Lions will play in a Thursday Night Football game, which is typically broadcast on the NFL Network. Some Thursday games may also be simulcast on FOX or Amazon Prime Video.
- Amazon Prime Video: As part of the NFL’s broadcast rights agreement, some Thursday Night Football games are streamed exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. Make sure you have an active subscription if the Lions are playing on Thursday and you prefer to stream the game.
Regional and Local Broadcasts
While national networks cover many Lions games, there are times when the games are available only on regional or local stations. This is especially true when there are multiple games airing simultaneously, and the networks decide which game to show based on regional interest. In Michigan and nearby areas, the Lions’ games are often prioritized, but fans outside the region might need to use NFL Sunday Ticket or a similar service to watch.
Streaming Options for Watching the Lions
For fans who prefer to stream the game, several options are available:
- NFL Sunday Ticket: This is the most comprehensive option for out-of-market fans who want to watch every Lions game. NFL Sunday Ticket provides access to all out-of-market games on Sundays.
- NFL Game Pass: Offers on-demand replays of every Lions game after they air. While it doesn’t provide live broadcasts, it’s a great option for fans who want to watch games at their convenience.
- FOX Sports App / CBS All Access: Both of these apps allow live streaming of games that are broadcast on their respective networks. You will need to log in with a TV provider to access these games.
- FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV: These are popular streaming services that carry FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN, and the NFL Network, depending on your location. They offer various packages and free trials, making them a flexible option for catching Lions games.
Checking the Game Schedule and Channel
The best way to know what channel the Lions game is on is by checking the team’s official schedule on the Detroit Lions’ official website or the NFL website. Both sites provide up-to-date information on game times and broadcast networks. You can also check your local TV listings or use sports apps like ESPN or Yahoo Sports for the most current broadcast information.