Where to Watch Monday Night Football: Broadcast and Streaming Options
Monday Night Football typically airs on ABC and ESPN in the United States, which are owned by Disney. Most viewers watch via cable or satellite providers that carry those channels, or through live TV streaming services that include local ABC stations and ESPN. Availability can vary by region due to local broadcast rights and blackouts. The following guide outlines the primary options, costs, and steps to confirm access in your area.
Primary Broadcast and Streaming Options
Because Monday Night Football is produced by ESPN and airs on ABC, the easiest path is a service that carries either linear ABC or local affiliates along with ESPN. Below are the most common ways to watch, grouped by how they deliver the game.
Live TV Streaming Services
Streaming services that include traditional TV channels are often the simplest solution. Many carry ABC and ESPN as part of live TV tiers. Carriage can change, so always confirm the current channel lineups for your ZIP code.
- YouTube TV: typically includes local ABC and ESPN. Monthly cost varies by region.
- FuboTV: offers regional sports packages and local channels; plans start near $69.99 per month.
- Sling TV: Blue or Orange plans may include local ABC and ESPN add-ons; base plans start around $40 per month.
- Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV Stream: include many local and ESPN-owned channels; pricing typically falls in the mid-$60s to $70s per month.
Cable and Satellite Providers
If you already subscribe to cable or satellite, Monday Night Football usually appears in the standard sports package. Check your provider’s channel guide for ABC and ESPN. Costs vary widely, but expect monthly bills ranging from about $60 to $120 or more depending on package and speed.
How to Check Availability and Blackouts
Local broadcast rights can create blackouts, and not all streaming services offer every local ABC station. Use these steps to confirm access before the game.
Quick Verification Steps
- Visit the official ABC affiliate list for your city and check which local channel broadcasts Monday Night Football.
- Check the streaming service’s coverage map and ZIP-specific lineups on their website.
- Confirm the network schedule on ABC and ESPN a few days before kickoff.
- Look for any announced blackout notices from your provider.
Pricing Snapshot (Indicative Ranges)
| Service | Typical Monthly Cost (USD) | Includes Local ABC? | Includes ESPN? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | ≈ $73 | Yes (varies by area) | Yes | Cloud DVR, multiple streams |
| FuboTV | ≈ $69.99+ | Often, depends on add-on | Yes | Regional sports packages may be needed |
| Sling TV | ≈ $40+ | Only with Orange/Blue add-ons | Only with add-ons | Choose based on local channel inclusion |
| Hulu + Live TV | ≈ $76 | Yes (by region) | Yes | Ad-supported option available |
| Cable/Satellite | ≈ $60–$120+ | Depends on package | Usually included | Contract and equipment fees may apply |
Free Over-the-Air Option
In many markets, the local ABC affiliate broadcasts Monday Night Football for free with an antenna. If your area carries it locally, you can watch at no cost with a compatible TV or a digital antenna and a streaming tuner device. Confirm with your city’s affiliate and channel number to see whether this applies.
What to Watch For When Choosing
Consider these factors beyond price:
- Whether the service includes your local ABC affiliate.
- Data caps on streaming services if you have limited internet.
- DVR cloud storage and simultaneous stream limits.
- Device support and app availability on your TV, phone, or streaming stick.
Summary
Monday Night Football airs primarily on ABC and ESPN. Most reliable viewing options include live TV streaming services such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, and some cable or satellite plans. Costs vary, local availability and blackouts depend on region, and free over-the-air access is possible where the local ABC affiliate holds the rights. Always check the service’s current channel lineup for your ZIP code before committing or canceling.
Next Steps
To watch Monday Night Football, confirm which local channel carries it in your market, then choose a service that includes that ABC affiliate and ESPN. Compare current pricing, trial offers, and device support, and verify lineup details on the provider’s website using your ZIP code. If you prefer not to commit long-term, look for services with no long-term contract or trial periods that include the necessary channels.
FAQ
Reader questions
Does Monday Night Football always air on the same channel?
Yes, it consistently airs on ABC and ESPN in the U.S., but local affiliates may differ. Streaming services may carry the national feed or a local feed depending on your location.
Can I watch Monday Night Football without cable?
Yes, via live TV streaming services, some OTT offerings, or over-the-air if your local station broadcasts it. Confirm regional carriage and local blackout rules first.
Are there low-cost or free ways to watch?
Free over-the-air is available where local rights allow. Some mobile plans and TV services may include ESPN; check promotions carefully for restrictions and term lengths.
What happens if there is a blackout?
Blackouts typically prevent streaming or viewing on services that do not have local rights. Using a VPN to bypass location checks usually violates terms of service. Check your provider’s notice and consider options that include your local affiliate.
How often do streaming prices or lineups change?
Pricing and channel lineups can change quarterly; always recheck a few weeks before the season starts if you are choosing a new service.