Bears Game Channel: How To Watch Live

The Chicago Bears, a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), command a massive following. Knowing what channel the Bears game is on is crucial for fans who want to catch every snap, tackle, and touchdown. This guide provides comprehensive information on how to watch Bears games live, whether you're at home or on the go.

Finding the Bears Game Channel

Figuring out what channel the Chicago Bears game is broadcast on can sometimes feel like navigating a maze. NFL games are spread across a variety of networks and streaming services, which adds complexity. Multiple factors determine the specific channel airing a game, including the week of the season, the opponent, and any national broadcast agreements. Here are the primary ways to identify the channel broadcasting the Bears game:

NFL Schedule Websites and Apps

The NFL's official website (https://www.nfl.com/schedules/) is the most reliable source for finding game schedules and broadcast information. The schedule is updated weekly and includes network listings for all games. Many sports websites and apps, such as ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nfl/schedule) and CBS Sports, also provide detailed schedules and channel information. These platforms usually have user-friendly interfaces that make it easy to search for specific games or teams.

• Official NFL Website: The NFL's website is the gold standard for schedules and broadcast details. You can filter by team to quickly find the Bears' games.
• ESPN: ESPN's website and app offer comprehensive coverage, including schedules, scores, and broadcast information.
• CBS Sports: Similar to ESPN, CBS Sports provides up-to-date schedules and broadcast details for NFL games.

TV Guides and Listings

Traditional TV guides, whether in print or online, remain a useful resource for identifying game channels. Services like TVGuide.com allow you to search for games by team or time. Most cable and satellite providers also offer interactive program guides (IPGs) on your television, providing real-time listings and channel information. These guides are usually updated automatically, so they reflect any last-minute changes to the broadcast schedule. Checking these resources can be a quick way to confirm the channel before kickoff.

• TVGuide.com: An online resource for TV listings, allowing you to search for games and channels.
• Cable/Satellite Provider IPGs: Interactive program guides provided by your cable or satellite service offer real-time listings.

Team Websites and Social Media

The Chicago Bears' official website (https://www.chicagobears.com/) and social media accounts are valuable sources of information. The team often posts game day information, including broadcast details, several days in advance. Following the Bears on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram can ensure you receive timely updates. Additionally, local media outlets and sports reporters often tweet or post information about game broadcasts, providing another avenue for staying informed.

• Chicago Bears Official Website: The team's website often posts broadcast information in their game previews.
• Team Social Media: Following the Bears on social media platforms ensures you get timely updates on game broadcasts.

Understanding NFL Broadcasting Agreements

The NFL has broadcasting agreements with several major networks, including CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video. These agreements dictate which networks will air certain games, influencing where you can watch the Bears. For example, Sunday afternoon games are typically split between CBS (for AFC matchups) and Fox (for NFC matchups). Since the Bears are in the NFC, many of their Sunday games will air on Fox.

• CBS and Fox: These networks typically broadcast Sunday afternoon games, with Fox covering most NFC matchups (where the Bears play).
• NBC: NBC airs Sunday Night Football, which often features high-profile matchups, including Bears games.
• ESPN: ESPN broadcasts Monday Night Football, which can include Bears games.
• Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video exclusively streams Thursday Night Football games.

Sunday Night Football on NBC and Monday Night Football on ESPN are primetime slots that often feature the Bears. Thursday Night Football games are now exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video. Being aware of these broadcasting agreements helps you anticipate which channels are likely to carry Bears games. — Chargers Vs. Broncos: Where To Watch The Game

National vs. Local Broadcasts

It's also essential to understand the difference between national and local broadcasts. National broadcasts, like Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football, and Thursday Night Football, are available across the country. Local broadcasts, on the other hand, are typically only available in the team's home market. For Chicago Bears games, the local broadcast partner is usually Fox (WFLD) or CBS (WBBM). If the Bears are playing a team from the AFC, the game will likely air on CBS in the Chicago market. If they are playing an NFC team, the game will likely air on Fox.

• National Broadcasts: Games on NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video are available nationwide.
• Local Broadcasts: Fox and CBS often carry Bears games locally, depending on the opponent's conference.

Knowing this distinction helps you determine whether you need a national channel subscription or if a local broadcast will suffice.

Streaming Options for Bears Games

Streaming services have revolutionized how we watch sports, providing numerous options for catching Bears games live. These services offer flexibility, allowing you to watch games on various devices, from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and computers. Here are the primary streaming options for Bears games:

NFL+ and NFL+ Premium

NFL+ is the NFL's official streaming service, offering live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. This service is ideal for fans who primarily watch games on their phones or tablets. NFL+ Premium includes all the features of NFL+ but adds access to full game replays, condensed game replays, and coaches film. However, it's important to note that NFL+ does not stream live games on TVs, so it's primarily a mobile-centric option.

• NFL+: Streams live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets.
• NFL+ Premium: Includes all NFL+ features, plus game replays and coaches film.

Streaming Services with Live TV

Several streaming services offer live TV packages that include the channels broadcasting NFL games, such as CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. These services provide a comprehensive way to watch Bears games without a traditional cable subscription. Popular options include:

• YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers a wide range of channels, including those that broadcast NFL games. It typically includes CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network, making it a strong option for Bears fans.
• Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV also includes major networks broadcasting NFL games, along with a vast library of on-demand content. This service is a good option for those who want both live sports and entertainment content.
• Sling TV: Sling TV offers different channel packages, some of which include key NFL broadcasting networks. It’s a more budget-friendly option, but you’ll need to check which package includes the channels you need.
• FuboTV: FuboTV is geared towards sports fans, offering a wide array of sports channels, including those that broadcast NFL games. It’s a comprehensive option for catching live sports action.
• DIRECTV STREAM: DIRECTV STREAM provides a similar experience to traditional cable but through streaming. It includes many of the channels needed to watch NFL games.

These services typically offer cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record games and watch them later. They also support multiple devices, so you can watch games on your TV, computer, or mobile device.

Amazon Prime Video

As previously mentioned, Amazon Prime Video exclusively streams Thursday Night Football games. If the Bears are playing on a Thursday night, you'll need an Amazon Prime subscription to watch the game. Amazon Prime Video offers a high-quality streaming experience, with features like X-Ray, which provides real-time stats and information during the game.

• Thursday Night Football: Amazon Prime Video is the exclusive home for Thursday Night Football games.

Paramount+

Paramount+ streams CBS games, which often include Bears games when they play an AFC team. If the Bears are playing a team like the Buffalo Bills or the New England Patriots, Paramount+ is a key streaming option. The service offers both live games and on-demand content, including CBS originals and movies.

• CBS Games: Paramount+ streams live CBS games, which are essential for watching Bears games against AFC teams.

Using a VPN to Bypass Blackouts

In some cases, NFL games may be subject to local broadcast blackouts, which prevent the game from being shown on local channels or streaming services. This typically happens when the game isn't sold out. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be used to bypass these blackouts by masking your IP address and making it appear as though you're in a different location. However, it’s important to check the terms of service for your streaming provider and the legality of using a VPN to bypass blackouts in your region.

• VPNs: Can potentially bypass blackout restrictions by masking your IP address.

Tips for Optimizing Your Viewing Experience

Once you've identified the channel or streaming service broadcasting the Bears game, there are several ways to optimize your viewing experience. These tips can help ensure you don't miss any of the action and enjoy the game to the fullest:

Check Your Local Listings

Always double-check your local listings before the game. Game schedules can change due to various factors, such as weather or scheduling conflicts. Checking your local listings on your TV guide or online can prevent last-minute surprises.

• Double-Check Listings: Always confirm the broadcast details before the game to avoid any surprises.

Set Reminders

Set reminders on your phone or TV to ensure you don't miss the kickoff. Most TV guides and streaming services allow you to set reminders that will notify you when the game is about to start. This is particularly useful for primetime games or games on weekdays.

• Set Reminders: Use reminders on your devices or TV to ensure you don’t miss the game.

Ensure a Stable Internet Connection

If you're streaming the game, ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. Streaming live sports requires a good internet connection to avoid buffering or interruptions. A wired connection is often more reliable than Wi-Fi, but if you're using Wi-Fi, make sure you're close to your router and that no other devices are consuming excessive bandwidth.

• Stable Internet: Ensure a fast and reliable internet connection for smooth streaming.

Use Multiple Devices

Many streaming services allow you to stream on multiple devices simultaneously. If you have family members who also want to watch the game, you can stream it on different devices without any issues. Check the terms of your streaming service to see how many devices are supported.

• Multiple Devices: Many services allow simultaneous streaming on multiple devices.

Consider a Sports Package

If you're a die-hard NFL fan, consider subscribing to a sports package from your cable or streaming provider. These packages often include channels like NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and other sports channels that offer extensive coverage of NFL games. This can be a worthwhile investment if you want to watch as many games as possible.

• Sports Packages: Consider subscribing to a sports package for comprehensive NFL coverage.

FAQ: Watching Bears Games

What channel is the Bears game on this week?

The channel for the Bears game varies each week depending on the schedule, opponent, and broadcast agreements. Refer to the NFL's official website, ESPN, CBS Sports, or the Chicago Bears' official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Local TV guides and streaming service listings are also helpful resources for confirming the channel.

How can I watch the Bears game if I don't have cable?

If you don't have cable, you can stream the Bears game through various streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, FuboTV, or DIRECTV STREAM. NFL+ offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices. Amazon Prime Video streams Thursday Night Football games, and Paramount+ streams CBS games. — Patrick Mahomes Age: Career Highlights And Stats

Are there any free ways to watch the Bears game?

Some over-the-air channels, like Fox and CBS, broadcast Bears games locally. You can watch these games for free with an antenna. Some bars and restaurants also show NFL games, providing a social viewing experience. NFL+ offers access to live local games on mobile devices, which can be a cost-effective option. — Commanders Vs. Falcons Prediction: Game Preview

Can I watch Bears games on NFL RedZone?

NFL RedZone provides live look-ins at every NFL game on Sunday afternoons, focusing on moments when teams are in the red zone. While it doesn't show full games, it's a great way to catch the most exciting plays. NFL RedZone is available as an add-on through many cable and streaming providers.

What is NFL+ and how does it help me watch Bears games?

NFL+ is the NFL's official streaming service, offering live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. NFL+ Premium includes game replays and coaches film. It's ideal for fans who primarily watch games on their phones or tablets but does not stream live games on TVs.

How do I use a VPN to watch Bears games?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can mask your IP address, making it appear as though you're in a different location, potentially bypassing local broadcast blackouts. However, it’s important to check the terms of service for your streaming provider and the legality of using a VPN to bypass blackouts in your region. Select a reputable VPN service and connect to a server in an area where the game is not blacked out.

What should I do if the Bears game is blacked out in my area?

If the Bears game is blacked out in your area, you can try using a VPN to bypass the blackout (after checking the legality and terms of service). Another option is to watch the game at a local bar or restaurant that carries NFL games. You can also wait for the game to be available on replay through NFL+ Premium or other streaming services.

Why is the Bears game not on my local channel?

The Bears game may not be on your local channel due to various reasons, including national broadcast agreements, the opponent's conference, and blackout restrictions. National games are broadcast on networks like NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video. Sunday afternoon games are typically split between CBS (AFC matchups) and Fox (NFC matchups). Local blackouts can also prevent a game from being shown if it isn't sold out.

Conclusion

Knowing what channel the Bears game is on is essential for any fan. By utilizing the resources and tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure you never miss a moment of the action. From checking official schedules and TV guides to exploring streaming options and optimizing your viewing experience, there are numerous ways to catch the Bears live. Stay informed, plan ahead, and enjoy the game!