Are you ready for the excitement of the NFL season but not sure when the games actually start? Knowing the exact dates and times can help you plan your game days, gather your friends, and never miss a touchdown.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting into football, understanding the NFL schedule is key to making the most of every game. Keep reading to find out when the action kicks off and how you can stay ahead of the game all season long.
Nfl Season Schedule
The NFL season follows a clear timeline each year. It starts with preseason games. Then, the regular season kicks off. Finally, the playoffs decide the champion. Every part has its own dates and importance. Knowing these helps fans plan and enjoy the action.
Here is a simple guide to the NFL season schedule.
Preseason Games Timeline
Preseason games usually start in early August. Teams play 3 or 4 games. These games help coaches test new players. Players get a chance to show their skills. Preseason lasts about three weeks. It ends right before the regular season begins.
Regular Season Kickoff
The regular season starts in early September. Each team plays 17 games. Games happen mostly on Sundays. Some games are on Mondays and Thursdays. This season runs for 18 weeks. It ends in late December or early January.
Playoff Dates
The playoffs begin in January. Twelve teams qualify for the postseason. The playoffs last about one month. Teams compete to reach the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl usually happens in early February. It is the final and biggest game of the season.
Credit: www.nbcnewyork.com
Game Days And Times
NFL games have set days and times each week. Fans mark their calendars to catch every play. Knowing the schedule helps plan your day around the excitement. The NFL spreads games across different days to reach more viewers. Each day has its special time slots for games.
Typical Weekly Game Slots
Most NFL games happen on Sundays. The day features two main blocks: early afternoon and late afternoon. Early games start around 1:00 PM Eastern Time. Late games begin near 4:00 PM Eastern Time. These times suit fans across the country. Sunday is the busiest day with many games played.
Prime Time Matchups
Prime time games attract the biggest audience. They usually start in the evening between 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM Eastern Time. These games are on Sunday nights, Monday nights, and Thursday nights. The NFL picks top teams for prime time. Expect intense matchups and great drama on these nights.
Sunday, Monday, And Thursday Games
Sunday has the most games, split across afternoon and night. Monday Night Football starts around 8:15 PM Eastern Time. It offers a single, exciting game to close the day. Thursday Night Football kicks off near 8:20 PM Eastern Time. These midweek games break up the week with action. Fans look forward to these special evenings every week.
Factors Affecting Game Start Times
Game start times in the NFL vary for many reasons. These times depend on several key factors. Understanding these helps fans plan their viewing better. Knowing why games start when they do adds to the excitement.
Broadcasting Rights
TV networks pay to show NFL games. Each network has specific time slots for games. This affects when a game can begin. Some games start early afternoon. Others start in the evening. Networks choose times to get the most viewers.
Time Zones
The NFL has teams in different time zones. Games start times adjust to local zones. A game in New York starts later than one in California. This change helps fans watch at a good time. It also helps players perform their best.
Weather Conditions
Weather can affect game start times. Heavy rain, snow, or storms may delay a game. Safety is the main concern for players and fans. Sometimes games start earlier to avoid bad weather. The NFL watches weather closely before deciding.
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Special Nfl Events
NFL fans enjoy more than just the regular season. Special NFL events bring extra excitement and tradition. These events have unique schedules and draw large audiences. They highlight the sport in different ways. Understanding these events helps fans know when games start.
Kickoff Game
The NFL Kickoff Game starts the season with a big event. It usually takes place on a Thursday night. The defending Super Bowl champions often play in this game. It marks the official start of the NFL regular season. Fans watch with high energy and anticipation.
Thanksgiving Games
Thanksgiving Day hosts special NFL games every year. These games are a holiday tradition for many families. Usually, three games are played on Thanksgiving. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys often host games. These matches start in the early afternoon and continue into the evening.
Super Bowl Timing
The Super Bowl is the NFL’s biggest event of the year. It happens on a Sunday in early February. The game usually starts in the evening. Millions of fans watch the final match live worldwide. It marks the end of the NFL season and crowns the champion.
Where To Find Updated Game Schedules
Finding the latest NFL game schedules is easy with the right sources. Updated schedules help fans plan their viewing and never miss a kickoff. Several trusted platforms provide accurate and timely information on game dates and times.
Check official and popular channels to stay informed. These platforms update schedules regularly as changes happen during the season.
Official Nfl Website
The NFL’s official website is the best place for accurate schedules. It lists all games with dates, times, and locations. Updates appear quickly if any changes occur. Fans can also see team standings and game highlights here.
Sports News Platforms
Sports news websites provide detailed NFL schedules and analysis. They often add expert commentary and injury reports. These platforms keep schedules current and easy to find. Many offer filters to view games by team or week.
Mobile Apps And Alerts
Mobile apps offer real-time schedule updates and notifications. Apps from the NFL or sports networks send alerts before games. Fans can personalize alerts for their favorite teams. This keeps fans ready and informed, no matter where they are.
Credit: www.nfl.com
Frequently Asked Questions
When Do Nfl Games Usually Start Each Season?
NFL games typically start in early September every year. The regular season runs for 17 weeks, ending in late December or early January. Kickoff times vary by game day, with prime time games on Thursday, Sunday, and Monday nights.
What Time Do Nfl Sunday Games Begin?
Sunday NFL games usually begin at 1:00 PM and 4:25 PM Eastern Time. There is also a Sunday night game starting at 8:20 PM ET. Exact times can vary based on broadcasting schedules and time zones.
When Is The Nfl Season Kickoff Game?
The NFL season kickoff game is held the Thursday after Labor Day. This game marks the official start of the regular season. It usually features the previous year’s Super Bowl champion team playing at home.
How Long Does An Nfl Game Last?
An NFL game lasts approximately three hours. It includes four 15-minute quarters and breaks for halftime and timeouts. Actual duration can vary due to stoppages, reviews, and commercials.
Conclusion
NFL games usually start in early September every year. The season runs through December with playoffs in January. Kickoff times vary but often start in the evening. Sunday is the main day for most games. Thursday and Monday games also happen weekly.
Knowing the schedule helps fans plan their viewing. Stay updated with official NFL sources for exact times. Enjoy the excitement and thrill of every match. Football season brings fun and great moments for all. Don’t miss out on the action when games begin.
