Fact Check: Are NFL games on ESPN+?

Are NFL Games on ESPN+?

The claim in question is whether NFL games are available for streaming on ESPN+. This inquiry arises from the growing trend of sports streaming and the evolving landscape of how fans access live sports content. With the NFL's significant popularity, understanding the availability of games on platforms like ESPN+ is crucial for fans looking to follow their teams.

What We Know

Availability of NFL Games on ESPN+: According to ESPN's official site, ESPN+ offers exclusive NFL content, including some live games, highlights, and original programming. Specifically, ESPN+ is set to stream 12 NFL games during the 2023-2024 season, which marks an increase in the number of games available on this platform compared to previous seasons 1 3.
Schedule and Coverage: The NFL and ESPN have outlined a schedule where ESPN will air 25 NFL games throughout the season, with 20 of these games being part of the Monday Night Football lineup. Additionally, 11 games will be broadcast on ABC, while the remaining 12 will be available exclusively on ESPN+ 2 3.
Streaming Features: ESPN+ allows subscribers to stream live games, rewind, and replay on multiple devices. The subscription costs $11.99 per month when bundled with Disney+ and Hulu, or $9.99 per month when purchased independently 1 5.
Additional Content: Beyond live games, ESPN+ provides access to NFL-related programming, including studio shows and original series, enhancing the viewing experience for subscribers 5 7.

Analysis

The claim that NFL games are available on ESPN+ is supported by multiple credible sources, including ESPN's own press releases and articles from reputable sports news outlets. However, it is essential to critically evaluate these sources for reliability and potential bias:

ESPN's Official Sources: The information directly from ESPN's website and press releases is generally reliable as it comes from the organization that owns the rights to the content. However, as a primary source, it may present a positive bias towards its offerings 1 3.
Third-Party Articles: Articles from sites like Cord Cutters News and The Streamable provide additional context and details about the NFL's streaming landscape. These sources appear to be credible, as they focus on providing information to consumers about streaming options. However, they may have a slight bias towards promoting streaming services over traditional cable 2 7 10.
Methodology and Evidence: The methodology for determining which games are available on ESPN+ is based on agreements between the NFL and ESPN. However, the specific criteria for selecting which games are streamed on ESPN+ versus other platforms (like ABC or ESPN) are not detailed in the sources, leaving some ambiguity about the selection process.
Potential Conflicts of Interest: While ESPN is a primary source for this information, it is important to note that their business interests may influence how they present their streaming offerings. This could lead to an emphasis on the benefits of subscribing to ESPN+ without a comprehensive view of alternatives available to consumers.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that NFL games are available for streaming on ESPN+ is substantiated by credible sources, including ESPN's official announcements. Specifically, ESPN+ is confirmed to stream 12 NFL games during the 2023-2024 season, alongside other NFL-related content. This information is consistent across multiple reputable outlets, reinforcing the accuracy of the claim.

However, it is important to recognize that while the evidence supports the availability of NFL games on ESPN+, the specific selection criteria for which games are streamed on ESPN+ versus other platforms remain unclear. Additionally, the potential for bias in the sources, particularly from ESPN itself, necessitates a cautious interpretation of the information.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider the broader context of sports streaming options available to them. As the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, staying informed about changes in availability and access is essential for fans.

Sources

Stream NFL Games, Highlights, Originals | ESPN+: https://plus.espn.com/nfl
ESPN to Air 25 NFL Games Throughout 2023 Season, 2024 Playoffs: https://cordcuttersnews.com/espn-to-air-25-nfl-games-throughout-2023-season-2024-playoffs-schedule-more/
ESPN's 25-Game 2023-24 NFL Schedule: https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2023/05/espns-25-game-2023-24-nfl-schedule-more-monday-night-football-games-multiple-playoff-games-flex-scheduling-and-more-of-the-leagues-signature-matchups-marquee-teams-storylines-t/
How to watch the NFL on ESPN Plus: https://www.whattowatch.com/how-to/how-to-watch-the-nfl-on-espn-plus
Everything to Know About Streaming the NFL on ESPN Plus: https://cordcuttersnews.com/streaming-the-nfl-on-espn-plus/
NFL Schedule - 2025 Season: https://www.espn.com/nfl/schedule
Ways To Watch: https://www.nfl.com/ways-to-watch/
ESPN NFL Schedule 2023-24: https://nflplayoffpass.com/espn-nfl-schedule/
How To Watch NFL Games on ESPN+: https://www.cabletv.com/espn-plus/nfl
Can You Watch 2023 NFL Games on ESPN+? - The Streamable: https://thestreamable.com/can-you-watch-2023-nfl-games-on-espn-plus