Streaming the Super Bowl isn’t quite as straightforward as you might think, and I need to share some important news about ESPN+ that could affect your game day plans.
ESPN+ and the Super Bowl
Unfortunately, ESPN+ does not carry the Super Bowl broadcast, despite being a major sports streaming platform. Even with an ESPN+ subscription, you won’t be able to watch the big game through their service. This might seem surprising, but it’s all about broadcasting rights.
Where to Watch Instead
For 2025, CBS holds the broadcasting rights to the Super Bowl. You can watch it through:
– CBS broadcast channel (free with antenna)
– Paramount+ streaming service
– NFL+ mobile app (for phone/tablet viewing)
– Any live TV streaming service that includes CBS (like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV)
Why Not ESPN+?
Here’s the thing – the Super Bowl broadcasting rights rotate between major networks (CBS, NBC, and FOX) on a predetermined schedule. ESPN and ESPN+ aren’t part of this rotation, even though they show many NFL games throughout the regular season. It’s kind of like having a backstage pass that works for most concerts but not for the biggest show of the year.
Making Your Game Day Plans
If you’re already an ESPN+ subscriber looking to watch the Super Bowl, I’d recommend:
1. Checking if you have access to CBS through a TV antenna
2. Starting a free trial of Paramount+ close to game day
3. Considering a live TV streaming service that includes CBS
The Future of Super Bowl Streaming
While ESPN+ might not have the Super Bowl now, the streaming landscape is constantly evolving. The NFL continues to expand its digital presence, so we might see changes in how the big game is distributed in the future. For now, though, you’ll need to look beyond ESPN+ for your Super Bowl viewing.
Think of it this way – ESPN+ is like having an all-access pass to a massive sports complex, but the Super Bowl is being held in a different venue altogether. You’ll just need to get a separate ticket for this particular event.
Remember to plan ahead for your viewing solution, especially if you’re hosting a Super Bowl party. Nothing’s worse than scrambling to figure out how to watch right before kickoff!
