Finding the exact broadcast network for today's matchup doesn't have to be a guessing game. The New England Patriots appear across multiple television networks and streaming providers throughout the season, depending on the kickoff time and broadcast rights. Most Sunday afternoon games land on CBS, which holds the primary AFC package, but appearances also shift to FOX, NBC, ESPN, and streaming services like Amazon Prime Video.
If you're staring at your remote and wondering what channel is the patriots game on today, check the kickoff window. Sunday afternoon games typically start at 1:00 p.m. or 4:25 p.m. Eastern time. Local CBS and FOX affiliates broadcast these regional matchups, meaning your geographic location dictates which channel appears on your screen. National primetime games air on specific platforms: Sunday Night Football streams on NBC and Peacock, Monday Night Football appears on ESPN or ABC, and Thursday Night Football goes live on Amazon Prime Video.
Identifying Your Local Broadcast Network
Regional coverage rules mean the channel broadcasting today's game depends entirely on where you live. Because the Patriots compete in the American Football Conference, CBS Sports handles the bulk of their regional Sunday afternoon schedule. However, cross-flex scheduling rules allow the NFL to move select games to FOX.
When you live within the New England television market, your local affiliate carries the game automatically over-the-air or through your cable provider. If you live outside the local broadcast footprint, your regional station will likely air a different regional matchup. Out-of-market fans must rely on specific digital packages to watch regional Sunday afternoon broadcasts live.
- CBS Affiliates: Covers standard Sunday afternoon AFC away games and select home interconference matchups.
- FOX Affiliates: Carries designated cross-flex games and specific international series appearances.
- NBC: Holds exclusive rights to Sunday Night Football windows.
- ESPN / ABC: Broadcasts Monday night matchups throughout the regular season.
Streaming Options Without Cable
Cutting the cord doesn't mean missing kickoff. Several live TV streaming services and standalone applications broadcast every major network carrying the team.
Live television aggregators like Fubo include local CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN channels in most regional areas, replicating a traditional cable lineup without hardware rentals. For dedicated streaming apps, Paramount+ streams your local CBS Sunday afternoon feed directly, while Peacock carries every NBC broadcast.
If you live outside the New England broadcast region and want to watch Sunday afternoon games that aren't showing on your local channels, YouTube TV offers NFL Sunday Ticket as an add-on package. Mobile users can also utilize NFL+ to catch live local and primetime games directly on phones and tablets.
Radio Broadcasts and Audio Alternatives
When you're on the road or unable to watch the video feed, live audio coverage provides a reliable alternative. The flagship radio station for the team is 98.5 The Sports Hub, broadcasting every snap across the regional radio network.
- terrestrial Radio:* Tune into 98.5 FM in the New England area.
- SiriusXM: Check satellite radio channel lineups for dedicated team audio feeds.
- Official Mobile App: Stream the radio broadcast through the official team application, subject to geographic broadcast restrictions.
Common Mistakes When Finding Game Broadcasts
Fans frequently run into roadblocks because they assume every game airs on the same network every week. Remembering a few key scheduling mechanics prevents missed quarters.
Don't rely on last week's channel number. Because broadcast networks rotate based on opponent conferences and league flex scheduling, a channel that worked last Sunday might show a completely different matchup today. Always verify the network assignment on the official NFL Schedule before kickoff.
Another frequent error involves streaming app blackouts. Subscribing to a national streaming tier doesn't guarantee access to out-of-market regional games. Local broadcast restrictions apply to all streaming equivalents of standard network television.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch today's game for free?
If the game broadcasts on your local CBS or FOX affiliate, you can watch it for free using a standard digital TV antenna plugged into your television's coaxial port.
Why is the game not showing on my local channel?
If you live outside the New England television market, your local station broadcasts the game assigned to your specific geographic region instead of the Patriots.
How do I watch primetime games?
Primetime games airing on Thursday, Sunday, or Monday nights require specific platforms. Keep Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and ESPN readily accessible depending on the specific night of the week.
Are preseason games broadcast on regular channels?
Local preseason matchups typically air on regional network affiliates within New England rather than national cable networks.
