College football season is here, and so are your weekend plans for the next 20 weeks. From top-tier clashes to exciting FCS matchups, there’s a game for every fan. This guide will navigate you through the maze of streaming options to ensure you don’t miss a single touchdown.
Where to Catch the Action: Networks and Streaming Platforms
In 2024, college football games will be broadcast across a variety of networks, including ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, CW, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, Fox, Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports 2, NBC, truTV, and SEC Network.
Beyond traditional television, streaming platforms are playing an increasingly important role. Games will also be available on ESPN+, Peacock, Max, FloFootball, and Facebook Live. With so many choices, knowing where to look can be challenging. Let’s break it down.
Fubo TV sign-in screen.Fubo TV login screen.
Free Streaming Options for College Football
While free streaming for the entire season isn’t realistic, there are ways to catch specific games or even a week’s worth of action without spending a dime. Leveraging free trials offered by live TV streaming services is the key. Here are three top contenders:
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Fubo: The “Pro” package boasts a comprehensive lineup, including ABC (live in most markets), Big Ten Network (and alternates), CBS (live in most markets), CBS Sports Network, CW (select markets), ESPN, ESPN2, Fox (live in most markets), Fox Sports 1, and Fox Sports 2, as well as NBC (live in most markets). Adding the “Sports Lite” package brings in ACC Network, ESPNU, and SEC Network. This comes to $90 per month, but a seven-day free trial is available.
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YouTube TV: The “Base Plan” offers a similar extensive selection, encompassing ABC (live in most markets), ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS (live in most markets), CBS Sports Network, CW (select markets), ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, Fox (live in most markets), Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports 2, NBC (live in most markets), truTV, and SEC Network. Regularly priced at $73 per month, YouTube TV offers a five-day free trial. Following the trial, the price drops to $53 per month for the first four months.
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DirecTV Stream: The “Entertainment” bundle covers ABC (live in most markets), CBS (live in most markets), CW (select markets), ESPN, ESPN2, Fox (live in most markets), Fox Sports 1, and NBC (live in most markets). Upgrading to “Choice” unlocks ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPNU, truTV, and SEC Network. The “Ultimate” package adds CBS Sports Network and Fox Sports 2. These packages are priced at $50, $70, and $90 per month, respectively. A five-day free trial is available for any of these tiers.
Streaming College Football on ESPN+
ESPN Plus on black background.The ESPN+ logo.
For games not broadcast on traditional television, ESPN+ is a crucial resource. It features a wealth of FBS games, along with numerous matchups from the SEC, ACC, and Big 12 conferences. With dozens of games every weekend and hundreds throughout the season, ESPN+ is a must-have for dedicated college football fans. While no free trial is available, the affordable price of $11 per month or $110 annually makes it a valuable investment. Beyond college football, ESPN+ offers other live sports, original shows, 30-for-30 documentaries, and written content.
Streaming College Football on Peacock
Peacock TV logo on black background.The Peacock logo.
Notre Dame and Big Ten fans should consider Peacock. This streaming service hosts the majority of Notre Dame games, and typically two to three Big Ten games weekly. Some games are simulcast on NBC, while others are exclusive to Peacock. While a free trial isn’t offered, the “Premium” tier, priced at $8 per month or $80 annually, unlocks access to these games.
Watching College Football from Abroad
The NordVPN app on the App Store on Apple TV.NordVPN app on Apple TV app store.
For fans outside the United States, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can bypass location restrictions. By masking your IP address and connecting to a US-based server, a VPN allows you to access US-only streaming services as if you were within the country. NordVPN is a recommended choice for its security, speed, and user-friendliness. Exploring other VPN services and deals is also advisable for finding the best fit.
Getting Ready for Kickoff
With a multitude of viewing options available, enjoying college football this season has never been easier. Whether you choose a traditional broadcast, streaming service, or a combination, this guide provides the roadmap for catching all the gridiron action.
