If you are looking to stream live games on Sling TV, you might run into a major hurdle regarding CBS and the CBS Sports Network. Many cord-cutters assume every major live television streaming service carries every broadcast network. Unfortunately, that isn't the case here.
Sling TV does not carry the main CBS broadcast network or CBS Sports Network in its base channel lineups. If your primary goal on game day is catching CBS programming, you need to know what is actually included, what is missing, and how you can bridge the gap without overpaying for cable.
Does Sling TV Carry CBS Sports?
The short answer is no. Sling TV does not offer CBS, local CBS affiliates, or CBS Sports Network on any of its standard plans, including Sling Orange, Sling Blue, or combined packages.
While competitors like YouTube TV, Fubo, and Paramount Plus include CBS or CBS Sports natively, Sling focuses on keeping subscription costs lower by omitting certain local broadcast networks. You won't find the main network channel or the dedicated cable channel in your channel guide by default. To read more about the context here, Associated Press offers an in-depth summary.
What Sports Content Is Actually on Sling TV?
Even though CBS isn't part of the lineup, Sling remains a powerhouse for other sports networks. Depending on the package you choose, you get access to heavy-hitting sports networks.
- ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3: Available on Sling Orange and the combined package, covering college football, the NBA, and international soccer.
- TNT, TBS, and truTV: Essential channels for March Madness, MLB postseason games, and NHL action.
- Fox and NBC: Available as local network affiliates in select media markets on Sling Blue plans.
- Sports Extra Add-On: You can tack on this extra package to unlock channels like NFL RedZone, FS1, FS2, the Golf Channel, and various college sports networks.
How to Watch CBS Without Sling TV
If you love your current Sling subscription for entertainment or news but need CBS for specific matchups, you have a few straightforward workarounds. You don't have to cancel your service entirely to watch a single game.
Use Paramount Plus for Live CBS
The most direct companion to a Sling TV subscription is a standalone streaming app like Paramount Plus.
- The higher-tier plan (Paramount+ with Showtime) includes your live, local CBS station feed 24/7.
- It streams NFL games broadcast on CBS, college football, PGA Tour golf events, and UEFA Champions League soccer.
- It costs a fraction of a full cable replacement package, making it an easy add-on for sports fans.
Install an Over-the-Air Digital Antenna
If you live within range of a broadcast tower, an HD digital antenna is a one-time purchase that solves your local channel problem permanently.
- Plug a digital antenna directly into the back of your television.
- Run a channel scan to pull in local broadcast networks like CBS, ABC, NBC, and Fox in uncompressed high definition.
- Some modern streaming setups or third-party hardware even allow you to integrate antenna feeds right alongside your streaming apps. You can check signal availability in your neighborhood using the FCC Reception Map.
Common Mistakes When Trying to Stream Sports on Sling
Navigating live TV streaming bundles can get confusing. Watch out for these common missteps before you commit your money.
- Assuming all local channels are included: Many users buy Sling Blue expecting every local network. Local availability depends entirely on your specific ZIP code and broadcast agreements.
- Confusing CBS Sports Network with Paramount Plus: CBS Sports Network is a dedicated cable channel, while Paramount Plus is a streaming service. Make sure you know which one holds the rights to the specific game you want to watch.
- Overlooking device limits: If you choose a plan like Sling Orange, remember that it only allows a single simultaneous stream. If someone else in your household wants to watch ESPN while you watch a game elsewhere, it won't work without upgrading your plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add CBS Sports Network as an extra channel on Sling TV?
No. Sling TV does not offer an add-on package that includes CBS Sports Network. Licensing agreements prevent them from offering it à la carte.
Does Sling TV have local channels in every city?
No. Local channels like Fox and NBC are only available in select media markets. You should enter your ZIP code directly on the Sling TV Official Site to see which local affiliates are broadcast in your specific area before subscribing.
What is the cheapest way to get Sling TV and CBS together?
Keep your base Sling plan for your multi-channel cable favorites, and pair it with a low-cost streaming subscription like Paramount Plus to cover live CBS broadcasts. This combination is often cheaper than switching to a more expensive, all-in-one live TV provider.
