NFL Schedule This Week: Dates, Times, And How To Watch

The National Football League (NFL) regular season is in full swing, and fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming matchups. This week's NFL schedule promises a slate of exciting games, featuring rivalries, potential playoff previews, and opportunities for teams to solidify their positions. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the NFL schedule this week, including game dates, times, broadcast information, and key matchups to watch. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or a casual observer, staying informed about the NFL schedule ensures you won't miss any of the action.

Full NFL Schedule This Week

This section provides a comprehensive breakdown of the NFL schedule for the current week. Each game listing includes the date, time, participating teams, and television broadcast information, ensuring you have all the details necessary to plan your viewing. The NFL regular season spans 18 weeks, with games typically held on Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Understanding the schedule allows fans to follow their favorite teams and track the overall landscape of the league. Here is the full schedule:

Thursday Night Football

Thursday Night Football kicks off the week with a primetime matchup. This game is often a highly anticipated contest, featuring teams with strong records or intriguing storylines. For many fans, Thursday Night Football has become a staple of the NFL week, offering a mid-week dose of football action. The scheduling of these games often takes into account team performance, rivalries, and potential playoff implications.

• Date: November 16, 2023
• Time: 8:15 PM ET
• Teams: Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens
• TV Broadcast: Amazon Prime Video

The Bengals and Ravens rivalry always delivers a physical, hard-fought contest. Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow will look to outduel Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson in this pivotal AFC North battle. This Thursday night game could have major implications for the division standings and playoff seeding.

Sunday Games

Sunday is the main day for NFL action, with a full slate of games throughout the afternoon and evening. These games are broadcast across various networks, including CBS, FOX, and NBC, offering fans numerous options to watch their favorite teams. Sunday games often feature a mix of divisional matchups, interconference contests, and high-profile showdowns.

• Early Games (1:00 PM ET Kickoffs):

  • Dallas Cowboys at Carolina Panthers
  • Los Angeles Chargers at Green Bay Packers
  • Las Vegas Raiders at Miami Dolphins
  • New York Giants at Washington Commanders
  • Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers at San Francisco 49ers
  • Arizona Cardinals at Houston Texans

  The early Sunday games provide a diverse range of matchups. The Cowboys-Panthers game features a clash between two teams with different aspirations this season. The Chargers-Packers game offers an interconference battle with intriguing quarterback play. Several divisional games are also featured, such as Titans-Jaguars, which could impact the AFC South standings. — Astros Game Today: Schedule, Updates, And Where To Watch

• Late Games (4:00 PM ET Kickoffs):

  • New York Jets at Buffalo Bills
  • Seattle Seahawks at Los Angeles Rams
  • Minnesota Vikings at Denver Broncos
  • Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears

  The late afternoon games often feature some of the week's most compelling matchups. The Jets-Bills game is an AFC East rivalry with significant implications for both teams. The Seahawks-Rams game is a divisional battle in the NFC West, while the Vikings-Broncos game offers an interconference showdown. The Lions-Bears game is a classic NFC North rivalry.

• Sunday Night Football:

  • Time: 8:20 PM ET
  • Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers at Los Angeles Chargers
  • TV Broadcast: NBC

  Sunday Night Football is a primetime showcase that typically features one of the week's marquee matchups. This week's game between the Steelers and Chargers pits two teams with playoff aspirations against each other. The Steelers' strong defense will face a tough test against the Chargers' dynamic offense.

Monday Night Football

Monday Night Football concludes the week's slate of games with another primetime contest. This game is broadcast on ESPN and has a long-standing tradition of showcasing exciting matchups and captivating storylines. Monday Night Football often serves as a fitting end to the NFL week, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next round of games.

• Date: November 20, 2023
• Time: 8:15 PM ET
• Teams: Philadelphia Eagles at Kansas City Chiefs
• TV Broadcast: ESPN

The Eagles and Chiefs Super Bowl rematch is the highlight of Monday Night Football. This game features two of the league’s top teams and quarterbacks, making it a must-watch contest. The high-scoring potential and star power on both sides ensure a thrilling conclusion to the week.

How to Watch NFL Games

Knowing how to watch NFL games is essential for any fan. The NFL has a variety of broadcast partners, including CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, streaming services and the NFL's own platforms offer various ways to access live games. Understanding these options ensures you can catch all the action, no matter your location or preferred viewing method. Several options exist for watching NFL games:

Television Broadcasts

Traditional television remains a primary way to watch NFL games. CBS and FOX typically broadcast Sunday afternoon games, with CBS focusing on AFC matchups and FOX covering NFC games. NBC airs Sunday Night Football, while ESPN broadcasts Monday Night Football. Local channels may also carry games involving teams in their market. The accessibility of these broadcasts makes television a convenient option for many fans.

Streaming Services

Streaming services have become increasingly popular for watching NFL games. Services like Paramount+, Peacock, and ESPN+ offer live streaming of games broadcast on their respective networks. Additionally, NFL+, the league's own streaming service, provides access to live out-of-market preseason games, as well as replays of regular season and playoff games. For cord-cutters, streaming services offer a flexible way to watch NFL games.

NFL RedZone

NFL RedZone is a popular option for fans who want to watch every game on Sunday afternoons. This channel provides live coverage of every game, cutting to the most exciting moments and focusing on teams in the red zone. NFL RedZone is available through various cable and streaming providers, offering a comprehensive and fast-paced viewing experience.

NFL Game Pass

NFL Game Pass provides access to replays of every NFL game, allowing fans to watch games on demand. This service is particularly useful for fans who cannot watch games live or want to rewatch their favorite matchups. NFL Game Pass offers different subscription tiers, with options for watching games across multiple devices.

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video has exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football, making it the primary platform for watching these games. A subscription to Amazon Prime is required to access these games, providing fans with another streaming option for NFL content. Amazon's coverage often includes pre- and post-game analysis, enhancing the viewing experience.

Key Matchups to Watch This Week

This week's NFL schedule features several key matchups that could have significant implications for the playoff picture. Games between division rivals, teams vying for playoff spots, and those with compelling storylines are always worth watching. Analyzing these matchups can provide a deeper understanding of the league's landscape and the potential contenders for the Super Bowl. Here are some key matchups:

Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens

The Bengals and Ravens are both contenders in the AFC North, making this game a crucial divisional matchup. The outcome could significantly impact the division standings and the playoff seeding in the AFC. Both teams boast talented quarterbacks and strong defenses, setting the stage for a competitive contest. This game is a must-watch for fans interested in the AFC playoff race.

New York Jets at Buffalo Bills

This AFC East rivalry is always intense, and this week's game is no exception. The Jets, with their revamped offense, are looking to make a statement, while the Bills aim to maintain their dominance in the division. The game features star quarterbacks and hard-hitting defenses, promising a physical and exciting matchup. For fans of divisional rivalries, this game is a highlight of the week.

Philadelphia Eagles at Kansas City Chiefs

The Super Bowl rematch between the Eagles and Chiefs is one of the most highly anticipated games of the season. Both teams are Super Bowl contenders, and this game provides a measuring stick for their progress. The matchup features star quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, as well as talented rosters on both sides. This game is a showcase of elite NFL talent and a potential Super Bowl preview.

Seattle Seahawks at Los Angeles Rams

This NFC West matchup is critical for both teams as they compete for playoff positioning. The Seahawks, with their explosive offense, will face a tough test against the Rams' defensive line. The game promises to be a hard-fought battle, with both teams looking to gain an edge in the division standings. This game is a key contest in the competitive NFC West.

Factors Influencing the NFL Schedule

The NFL schedule is carefully constructed each year, taking into account various factors to ensure competitive balance and fan interest. These factors include team performance, rivalries, stadium availability, and broadcast considerations. Understanding these elements provides insight into the complexities of the NFL schedule-making process. Several factors influence the construction of the NFL schedule:

Team Performance

Team performance from the previous season plays a significant role in determining the schedule. Teams with better records typically face a tougher schedule the following year, as they are matched up against other top teams. This system aims to promote competitive balance and prevent teams from having an overly easy path to the playoffs. The NFL's scheduling formula ensures that teams face a mix of opponents with varying levels of success.

Divisional and Conference Matchups

Divisional games are prioritized in the NFL schedule, as they have the most significant impact on playoff contention. Teams play their divisional opponents twice each season, creating intense rivalries and high-stakes matchups. Additionally, teams play a certain number of games against teams from their own conference, further shaping the playoff landscape. The emphasis on divisional and conference games ensures competitive balance within each conference.

Rivalries

Historic and intense rivalries are often featured in primetime slots, such as Sunday Night Football and Monday Night Football. These games tend to draw high viewership and generate significant fan interest. The NFL recognizes the importance of these rivalries and strategically schedules them to maximize their impact. Games like Packers-Bears, Cowboys-Eagles, and Steelers-Ravens are frequently showcased in primetime.

Stadium Availability

Stadium availability can also influence the NFL schedule. Teams that share stadiums with other sports teams or events must coordinate their schedules to avoid conflicts. Additionally, stadium renovations or special events may require adjustments to the schedule. The NFL works closely with teams and stadium management to ensure a smooth and feasible schedule.

Broadcast Considerations

Broadcast partners play a crucial role in shaping the NFL schedule. Networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video have input into the scheduling process, as they seek to broadcast the most compelling matchups. Primetime games are particularly valuable to broadcasters, as they draw the largest audiences. The NFL works with its broadcast partners to create a schedule that maximizes viewership and revenue. — Arlington Heights, IL: A Vibrant Village In Cook County

NFL Schedule: Key Dates and Events

Throughout the NFL season, several key dates and events stand out. These include the kickoff weekend, international games, Thanksgiving Day games, and the playoffs. Being aware of these dates helps fans plan their viewing and follow the league's progression. Key dates and events mark the rhythm of the NFL season:

Kickoff Weekend

The NFL season traditionally kicks off the Thursday after Labor Day, marking the official start of the regular season. The opening game often features the defending Super Bowl champions, adding to the excitement and anticipation. Kickoff weekend is a major event for NFL fans, signaling the return of football after the offseason.

International Games

The NFL has expanded its reach globally by hosting games in international locations, such as London and Mexico City. These international games expose the sport to new audiences and provide a unique experience for fans. International games are strategically scheduled throughout the season, often featuring teams with strong international followings.

Thanksgiving Day Games

Thanksgiving Day is a traditional day for NFL football, with multiple games played throughout the day. These games are a staple of the Thanksgiving holiday, providing entertainment for families and fans across the country. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have a long-standing tradition of hosting Thanksgiving Day games.

NFL Playoffs

The NFL playoffs begin in January, featuring the top teams from each conference vying for a spot in the Super Bowl. The playoffs consist of Wild Card Weekend, Divisional Round games, the Conference Championships, and the Super Bowl. The playoffs are a high-stakes, single-elimination tournament that culminates in the Super Bowl, the league's championship game.

Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is the NFL's championship game, held annually in February. This event is one of the most-watched television broadcasts in the United States, drawing a massive audience. The Super Bowl features not only the game itself but also a halftime show with world-renowned performers, making it a cultural phenomenon.

NFL Schedule FAQs

This section addresses frequently asked questions about the NFL schedule, providing clear and concise answers to common queries. These FAQs cover various aspects of the schedule, including its creation, key dates, and how to watch games. Addressing these questions helps fans better understand and navigate the NFL schedule.

What is the process for creating the NFL schedule?

The NFL schedule is created using a complex algorithm that considers various factors, including team performance, divisional matchups, rivalries, stadium availability, and broadcast considerations. The league aims to create a balanced schedule that maximizes competitive integrity and fan interest. The process involves numerous iterations and adjustments to accommodate these factors.

How are primetime games selected for the NFL schedule?

Primetime games, such as Sunday Night Football and Monday Night Football, are selected based on several factors, including team performance, rivalries, and potential playoff implications. The NFL works closely with its broadcast partners to identify the most compelling matchups that will draw the largest audiences. These games often feature star players and teams with strong fan bases. — Browns Vs. Packers: A Classic NFL Showdown

How does the NFL schedule affect team travel?

The NFL schedule takes into account team travel to minimize the impact of long road trips and time zone changes. The league attempts to avoid scheduling teams for multiple consecutive road games and considers the distance between game locations. This helps ensure that teams are as rested and prepared as possible for their games.

What are the different ways to watch NFL games?

NFL games can be watched through various methods, including traditional television broadcasts, streaming services, NFL RedZone, and NFL Game Pass. Broadcast partners like CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video air live games, while streaming services offer additional options for watching games online. NFL RedZone provides live coverage of every game on Sunday afternoons, and NFL Game Pass offers replays of all games.

How do international games impact the NFL schedule?

International games are integrated into the NFL schedule to expand the league's global reach. These games are typically scheduled in London and Mexico City, with teams often receiving a bye week following their international game. The NFL carefully plans these games to minimize the disruption to team schedules and travel.

Why are Thanksgiving Day games a tradition in the NFL?

Thanksgiving Day games have been a tradition in the NFL for many years, dating back to the league's early days. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have a long-standing tradition of hosting Thanksgiving Day games, providing entertainment for families and fans during the holiday. These games have become a cherished part of the Thanksgiving holiday tradition.

How does the NFL schedule ensure competitive balance?

The NFL schedule is designed to ensure competitive balance by considering team performance from the previous season. Teams with better records face a tougher schedule the following year, as they are matched up against other top teams. This system aims to prevent teams from having an overly easy path to the playoffs and promotes parity within the league.

Where can I find the most up-to-date NFL schedule information?

The most up-to-date NFL schedule information can be found on the league's official website (https://www.nfl.com/schedules/), as well as through various sports news outlets and team websites. The NFL schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, so it's important to check regularly for updates.

Staying informed about the NFL schedule ensures that you don't miss any of the exciting action. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current week's schedule, how to watch games, key matchups to watch, and factors influencing the schedule. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, understanding the NFL schedule enhances your enjoyment of the game. Be sure to check back regularly for updates and changes to the schedule as the season progresses. For the latest updates and information, visit the official NFL website and other reputable sports news sources such as ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nfl/schedule) and CBS Sports (https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/schedule/).