How to watch, stream the exclusive Friday game of the 2024 NFL season for free online without cable: Peacock

Now, as the NFL kicks off the 2024-25 season, the NBCUniversal service is home to yet another exclusive, as the second game of the season will once again air only on the Peacock.

While fans might object to having to subscribe to another service to watch the games, it’s something they should get used to. The NFL was thrilled with the game’s viewership and indicated it was open to more streaming exclusives.

“We couldn’t be more proud of our partnership with the Peacock and are thrilled with the results of the first NFL playoff game broadcast exclusively live,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement earlier this year. “To best serve our fans, we need to ensure games are available to them as their viewing habits change, and that includes digital distribution as we continue to help shape the future of the sports and entertainment industry.”

Here’s how to catch Friday night’s game. And what you can expect for the rest of the season in terms of streaming exclusives.

Which NFL teams are playing on Friday? And what channels are airing the games?

Like last night, there is only one game on Friday. (The home team is ranked second.)

Friday, September 6

Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 8:15 PM ET on Peacock

How can I watch NFL games for free even if I’m not in the market?

Normally we’d suggest a good HD antenna here, but that won’t help you with tonight’s game. That leaves you with an option

Can I live stream the 2024 NFL games online if I don’t have a cable subscription?

Well, obviously…

Peacock

NBC’s streaming service will give you access to more games, including all upcoming Sunday night games. Expect to pay a monthly fee of $8 or $14. (The free version of Peacock does not include live sports.)

Will other games be streaming exclusively this year?

Yes, more actually.

Amazon will largely be the exclusive home of Thursday Night Football again, except for Thanksgiving (although it will air an exclusive game on Black Friday — Las Vegas at Kansas City). In January, Amazon will also have exclusive rights to an NFL Wild Card game, as the Peacock did last year.

On October 21, EPSN+ will exclusively air a Monday night game as the Los Angeles Chargers take on the Arizona Cardinals.

And Netflix will be the exclusive home of two Christmas games in December, the streaming service’s first foray into the NFL market.

Why is this game taking place in Brazil?

The NFL wants to be known as more than just an American sport. Brazil could be a key part of that international expansion, with more than 38 million fans, the league says. The first international game was held in Mexico City in 2005, and since then, the NFL has played in several international cities, including London and Munich, Germany.

Does the NFL offer any viewing packages to watch the games I want?

Yes, and I can help you with the game on Friday. There are three to choose from.

The NFL app

The The NFL app will allow you to stream the games that are being broadcast locally in your market on Sundays. If you want to watch an “out-of-market” game, you have two options.

NFL+

Watch live local and out-of-market games and (with premium membership) replays. You are looking at a fee of $50 per season. ($100 for premium.)

NFL Sunday Ticket

YouTube is once again the home for this channel. Prices this year start at $73 per month for Sunday Ticket and YouTubeTV or $449 for Sunday Ticket (covering all out-of-market games this season).

Explore our new special issue.
A Wall Street legend gets a makeover, crypto iniquity, poultry rights and more.
Read the stories.