The Comprehensive Guide to the NFL TV Map: Unlocking Every Game, Every Sunday

Introduction

The NFL TV map is an indispensable tool for gridiron enthusiasts, providing a comprehensive guide to which games will be televised in each market every Sunday. This article will delve into the intricacies of the NFL TV map, empowering you to plan your football-filled weekends with ease.

Overview

The NFL TV map is a weekly publication that designates which NFL games will be broadcast in each designated market area (DMA) across the United States. It is released every Thursday at 10:00 AM ET and is available on the NFL website, mobile app, and various partner platforms.

Regional Coverage

The NFL TV map is divided into four regional networks:

• Fox: Covers the majority of the United States, including the East Coast, Midwest, and West Coast.
• CBS: Primarily covers the southeast, southwest, and central United States.
• NBC: Broadcasts the "Sunday Night Football" game nationally.
• ESPN: Airs "Monday Night Football" and select Sunday night games.

Selection Process

The NFL's television partners use a complex formula to determine which games will be shown in each market. Factors considered include team popularity, market size, and scheduling conflicts.

Game Selection Priorities

1. Local Teams: Each market will prioritize the game featuring their local team.
2. Divisional Matchups: Games between teams in the same division receive preference.
3. High-Profile Matchups: Games involving popular or contending teams are likely to be selected for broadcast.
4. National Appeal: Games with broader appeal, such as divisional races or playoff implications, are given priority.

How to Use the NFL TV Map

1. Identify Your DMA: Determine which designated market area you are located in. You can use the NFL website or mobile app to find your DMA.
2. Check the Map: Navigate to the NFL TV map for the current week and locate your DMA to see which games will be televised.
3. Plan Your Viewing: Use the map to plan your weekend, ensuring you don't miss your favorite teams or key matchups.

Important Considerations

1. Blackouts: NFL games can be blacked out in local markets if they are not sold out.
2. Streaming Options: Streaming services such as NFL+ and ESPN+ offer additional live game coverage, including out-of-market games.
3. Mobile Access: The NFL TV map is accessible on both the NFL website and mobile app.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1: The Packers' Dominance

The Green Bay Packers, a small-market team, has enjoyed consistent national exposure due to their large fan base and historical success. This has allowed the Packers to maintain a strong presence on the NFL TV map, despite their remote location.

Lesson: Even small-market teams can generate significant television viewership by building a loyal and passionate fan base.

Story 2: The Rise of Streaming

The emergence of streaming services has disrupted the traditional television landscape for sports. More and more fans are opting to stream NFL games online, which has led to the NFL offering a dedicated streaming platform, NFL+.

Lesson: Streaming is becoming a major force in the sports media industry, and traditional broadcasters need to adapt to meet the changing viewing habits of fans.

Story 3: The Power of Scheduling

The NFL strategically schedules its games to maximize television viewership. Primetime games on Sunday and Monday nights are typically reserved for the most anticipated matchups, while afternoon games are used to showcase smaller-market teams and divisional rivalries.

Lesson: Scheduling is a powerful tool that can be used to drive television ratings and promote the popularity of the NFL.

Tips and Tricks

1. Use the NFL App's Notifications: Enable notifications on the NFL App to receive updates on upcoming games and television listings.
2. Subscribe to NFL Sunday Ticket: For access to all out-of-market games, consider subscribing to NFL Sunday Ticket, which offers a comprehensive package of live and recorded games.
3. Explore Local Bars and Restaurants: Many establishments offer NFL game day packages, providing a lively atmosphere and the opportunity to watch multiple games.
4. Use a VPN: If you want to access out-of-market games without subscribing to NFL Sunday Ticket, you can use a virtual private network (VPN) to change your IP address and bypass regional restrictions.

Benefits of Using the NFL TV Map

1. Plan Your NFL Weekends: The NFL TV map allows you to plan your weekends in advance, ensuring you don't miss any important games.
2. Maximize Your Viewing Experience: By knowing which games are being televised in your area, you can optimize your viewing experience and avoid schedule conflicts.
3. Stay Informed About Local Teams: The NFL TV map keeps you informed about the television schedule of your local team, even if you are traveling or living outside their DMA.
4. Compare Coverage Options: The map also provides a comprehensive view of all television coverage options, including national and regional networks, allowing you to make informed decisions about how to watch the games you want.

Conclusion

The NFL TV map is an invaluable resource for football fans, providing a detailed guide to which games will be televised in each market every Sunday. By understanding the selection process, regional coverage, and tips for using the map, you can unlock the full potential of the NFL television experience.