How to Watch Football on Roku

Football is one of the most popular sports in the world, and with the advent of streaming technology, fans can enjoy games from their favorite teams and leagues in the comfort of their homes. Roku, one of the most popular streaming devices, offers a multitude of ways to watch football, whether it’s NFL, college football, or international soccer. This article will guide you through the process of setting up your Roku device to watch football, explore the various channels and apps available, and provide tips on getting the best streaming experience.

1: Setting Up Your Roku Device

Before you can start watching football on Roku, you need to ensure that your Roku device is properly set up. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Step 1: Connect Roku to Your TV and Internet

• Plug your Roku device into your TV using an HDMI cable.
• Connect the power adapter to your Roku and plug it into an electrical outlet.
• Switch on your TV and select the correct HDMI input.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Roku to your Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Create a Roku Account

• If you don’t already have a Roku account, visit the Roku website and create one.
• Link your Roku device to your Roku account by entering the code displayed on your TV screen.

Step 3: Install the Necessary Streaming Channels

• Use the Roku remote to navigate to the Roku Channel Store.
• Search for football-related channels, such as ESPN, NFL, Fox Sports, CBS Sports, or NBC Sports.
• Install the channels by selecting “Add Channel.”

Step 4: Sign In to Streaming Services

• Open the installed channels on your Roku device.
• Sign in with your credentials for services like ESPN+, Sling TV, FuboTV, or any other service that broadcasts football games.

2: Channels and Apps to Watch Football on Roku

There are several channels and apps available on Roku that broadcast football games. Below is a comprehensive list of the most popular ones:

ESPN and ESPN+

• Content: ESPN offers a wide range of football coverage, including Monday Night Football, college football, and international soccer.
• Subscription: A cable subscription or ESPN+ subscription is required to access live games.

NFL App

• Content: The NFL app provides access to live games, highlights, and replays. NFL Game Pass offers full replays of every game, as well as condensed versions.
• Subscription: Some content is free, but full access requires a subscription to NFL Game Pass.

Sling TV

• Content: Sling TV offers packages that include ESPN, NBC, Fox Sports, and other channels that broadcast football games.
• Subscription: Sling TV offers various packages, with options starting from around $35 per month.

FuboTV

• Content: FuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that includes channels like CBS, Fox, NBC, and NFL Network, offering extensive football coverage.
• Subscription: FuboTV’s packages start at around $75 per month.

CBS All Access (Paramount+)

• Content: CBS All Access, now known as Paramount+, streams live NFL games, particularly those aired on CBS, including AFC matchups.
• Subscription: Plans start at $5.99 per month with limited commercials, or $9.99 for commercial-free streaming.

NBC Sports

• Content: NBC Sports offers Sunday Night Football and coverage of other football events.
• Subscription: Requires a cable or satellite subscription, or a subscription to a streaming service that carries NBC Sports.

Fox Sports

• Content: Fox Sports streams NFC games, the Super Bowl, and other football-related programming.
• Subscription: Available through cable, satellite, or streaming services.

DAZN

• Content: DAZN specializes in streaming sports, including international football (soccer).
• Subscription: DAZN is a subscription-based service, with prices varying by country.

YouTube TV

• Content: YouTube TV offers a wide array of sports channels, including those that broadcast football games.
• Subscription: Priced at around $72.99 per month, with access to over 85 channels.

3: Tips for the Best Streaming Experience

To ensure you have the best experience watching football on Roku, consider the following tips:

1. High-Speed Internet Connection

• A stable and fast internet connection is crucial for uninterrupted streaming, especially when watching live sports. Aim for an internet speed of at least 25 Mbps.

2. Use a Wired Connection

• If possible, connect your Roku device to your router using an Ethernet cable. This can provide a more stable connection than Wi-Fi.

3. Adjust Streaming Quality

• If you experience buffering, you can adjust the streaming quality in the settings of most streaming apps. Lowering the video quality slightly can reduce buffering issues.

4. Keep Your Roku Updated

• Make sure your Roku device is running the latest software. This ensures compatibility with the latest streaming apps and features.

5. Use a VPN for Geographically Restricted Content

• If you’re trying to watch football games that are geographically restricted, a VPN can help you bypass these restrictions. Make sure to use a reliable VPN service that works with Roku.

4: Understanding Blackouts and Restrictions

Blackouts and regional restrictions can sometimes prevent you from watching your favorite football games. Here’s how you can deal with these issues:

NFL Blackouts

• NFL games can be blacked out in certain regions if the game isn’t sold out in the local area. To avoid blackouts, consider subscribing to NFL Game Pass, which allows you to watch replays of all games without blackouts.

Regional Restrictions

• Some streaming services restrict content based on your location. As mentioned earlier, a VPN can help you access content that is otherwise restricted in your area.

Pay-Per-View Events

• Occasionally, special football events may be available only via pay-per-view. Be prepared to pay extra for these events, which may not be included in your regular subscription.

5: International Football (Soccer) on Roku

Roku isn’t just for American football; it’s also a great platform to watch international football (soccer). Here are some of the top channels for soccer fans:

ESPN+

• Content: ESPN+ offers coverage of various soccer leagues, including Major League Soccer (MLS), the English FA Cup, and more.

FuboTV

• Content: In addition to American football, FuboTV offers coverage of European leagues like the English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and more.

DAZN

• Content: DAZN is one of the best services for watching international soccer, with coverage of top leagues and tournaments worldwide.

Paramount+

• Content: Paramount+ streams UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and other international soccer competitions.

Peacock

• Content: Peacock offers coverage of the English Premier League and other sports content.

6: Costs and Considerations

While Roku provides a convenient way to watch football, it’s important to consider the costs involved. Subscribing to multiple streaming services can add up quickly. Here’s a breakdown:

Service	Monthly Cost	Football Content
ESPN+	$9.99	College football, NFL, soccer
NFL Game Pass	$99.99/year	NFL games (replays)
Sling TV	From $35	NFL, college football
FuboTV	From $74.99	NFL, soccer, college football
YouTube TV	$72.99	NFL, college football
CBS All Access	From $5.99	NFL (CBS games)
Peacock	From $5.99	Premier League soccer
DAZN	$19.99	Soccer, international sports

Consider Free Trials

• Many streaming services offer free trials for new subscribers. Take advantage of these to watch football games without commitment.

Beware of Hidden Fees

• Some services may charge additional fees for HD or 4K streaming, or for accessing certain games.

7: Alternatives to Roku for Watching Football

While Roku is a popular choice, there are other devices and platforms you might consider for watching football:

Amazon Fire TV

• Offers similar apps and channels as Roku, with the added benefit of integration with Amazon services.

Apple TV

• Known for its seamless user experience and compatibility with other Apple devices.

Google Chromecast

• Allows you to cast football games from your mobile device or computer to your TV.

Smart TVs

• Many smart TVs come with built-in apps for ESPN, NFL, and other football channels, eliminating the need for an external streaming device.

Conclusion

Roku is a versatile and convenient device for watching football, offering a wide range of channels and apps to cater to fans of both American football and international soccer. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up your Roku device, explore the available options for streaming football, and enjoy the games without any hassle. Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fan or a soccer enthusiast, Roku has something for everyone.