Being an NFL fan can quickly become costly, as enjoying all the games can push expenses beyond $500. While last year’s costs were examined, the new schedule has altered the timings of Prime Time games.
Essential TV Package
Firstly, securing a basic TV package is a must. If you don’t currently possess one, you may still have options. Look for a provider that includes FOX, CBS, and ABC, as these networks typically require you to log in through your provider, which can simplify things for you.
For those without a provider, I recommend YouTube for affordable access to Sunday Ticket. Among the various streaming services, Fox Sports offers the most user-friendly app experience.
CBS Sports has its own challenges. Previously, they required you to subscribe to their streaming service for football, even with a valid TV package, which they’ve relaxed somewhat this year. However, subscribing to Paramount+ for $11.99 monthly will let you watch local CBS broadcasts. Be cautious, as CBS has caused viewing frustrations in the past.
App Options
NFL+: Skip this if preseason isn’t of interest. However, if you want to catch the preseason, you’ll need to subscribe at $6.99/month for access to the three 49ers games. Should any games air nationally, you won’t need the subscription for that specific game, and fortunately, this is a one-month commitment.
Amazon Prime Video: The 49ers will have their first primetime game on Prime Video, potentially their only one of the season. If you haven’t subscribed to Amazon yet, you can take advantage of a free trial. If trials are unavailable due to other subscriptions, the quick video option is $8.99 monthly, or the full Amazon Prime service is $14.99. Those with Walmart+ may find themselves needing to subscribe to both services for a month.
NBC/Peacock: NBC has been pushing their streaming platform. If NBC is included in your TV package, logging in should be straightforward, though the app may still experience bugs. A Peacock subscription enhances functionality and starts at $2.99 for six months for new users, or $5.99 for standard access. For ad-free viewing, Premium Plus is $11.99. However, expect to pay for at least one month to utilize any trials.
NFL Sunday Ticket Costs
Prepare for higher expenses this year, as Sunday Ticket has increased in price. Subscribers who haven’t opted for the YouTube deal will face a steep fee of $480, while YouTube TV subscribers can get it for $379. You can pay upfront or in installments. Alternatives include visiting a sports bar with the package or getting local broadcasts if applicable.
Summary of Costs
After compiling all expenses (not including the Fox/CBS/ABC package), the total may reach around $500. This assumes you’re not in Northern California or that you’re only subscribing monthly to other services. Keep in mind that canceling subscriptions often doesn’t go as smoothly as hoped.
An additional frustration is that the 49ers’ prime time games are spaced over a month apart, necessitating multiple months of subscriptions for different services.
With preseason starting on August 18 and it’s currently May, you have approximately three months to save for these expenses.
