The specific network airing the Bears game varies; check your local listings or the official NFL schedule for the most accurate information.
Trying to catch the Chicago Bears game and feeling a bit lost? Figuring out what network is Bears game on can sometimes be confusing with so many channels available. It really depends on the week and the specific game matchup.
This often shifts between major networks like CBS, Fox, NBC, and ESPN, along with some games on the NFL Network. So, it’s always best to verify the schedule.
To make sure you don’t miss a moment, check the NFL’s official website or your local TV guide for the most up to date information. This will guarantee you know exactly where to find the Bears game.
What Network is Bears Game On?
Finding out where to watch the Chicago Bears can sometimes feel like a puzzle. One week they might be on one channel, and the next, they’re somewhere else! It’s all part of the fun of being a football fan, but it can also be a bit confusing. Let’s dive into the different places you can find Bears games, from traditional TV to newer streaming options. We’ll break it all down so you never miss a touchdown.
The Basics: National vs. Local Broadcasts
Before we jump into specific networks, it’s helpful to understand the two main types of broadcasts: national and local.
- National Broadcasts: These are games shown across the entire country. Think of big Sunday night games or Monday night matchups. These are usually shown on major networks that everyone can access, regardless of where they live.
- Local Broadcasts: These games are shown only in specific areas, usually around Chicago and the Midwest. Local channels are affiliated with larger networks, but they show their own programming, which sometimes includes Bears games.
Understanding this difference helps make sense of the schedule, since games can be shown on both types of broadcasts. It’s not always the same each week. National games are always easier to find because they are on national channels, while local games require checking what is available in your area.
National Networks Showing Bears Games
Okay, let’s talk about the big guys—the national networks that frequently show Chicago Bears games. These are the ones most fans are familiar with and can generally access easily.
ESPN and Monday Night Football
ESPN is a major player when it comes to football, especially with “Monday Night Football”. If the Bears are featured in a Monday night game, this is where you’ll find them. Beyond just the game itself, ESPN provides extensive coverage, which usually includes pre-game shows, half-time analysis, and post-game wraps. This gives a very complete experience for the viewer. ESPN also has other programs, like “NFL Live”, that often talk about the Bears and other teams, so it’s a great source for football news throughout the week.
NBC and Sunday Night Football
NBC is another key network for Bears fans. It’s where “Sunday Night Football” lives, so if the Bears are selected for that prime-time slot, you can bet it will be on NBC. Similar to ESPN, NBC usually has a dedicated pre-game show, “Football Night in America”, which is a great place to get all the information you need before the game begins. Being on “Sunday Night Football” is a big deal, so you can expect a very high-quality production with top-notch commentators.
CBS and Sunday Afternoon Games
CBS is a big channel for Sunday afternoon games, especially when the Bears are playing an AFC (American Football Conference) team. CBS has been the home of many thrilling football games over the years. Games are usually in the early afternoon or late afternoon time slots on Sundays. If the Bears are playing a team that is part of the AFC, chances are you can find the game on CBS.
FOX and Sunday Afternoon Games
FOX is very similar to CBS, but primarily broadcasts NFC (National Football Conference) games. Since the Bears are part of the NFC, you are more likely to find their Sunday afternoon games on FOX when they are playing another NFC team. Just like the other national networks, FOX also has its own commentators and its style of football coverage. So, if the Bears are playing another NFC team in the afternoon on a Sunday, check your local listings for FOX.
NFL Network and Thursday Night Football
The NFL Network is a dedicated channel focused exclusively on football. You will often find Thursday Night Football games on the NFL Network. The great thing about the NFL Network is it gives you football content all the time, not just on game days, but also throughout the week. It offers shows like “Good Morning Football” and other analysis programs. If the Bears are scheduled for a Thursday Night game, it’s very likely that you’ll find it on the NFL Network. This network also sometimes shows replays of games throughout the week, so if you missed a game, it might be worth checking this network.
Local Channels and Regional Coverage
Now, let’s talk about the local channels. These are especially important if you live in or near the Chicago area. These channels carry the games that aren’t picked up by the national networks.
Local CBS Affiliate (WBBM-TV in Chicago)
In Chicago, the local CBS affiliate is WBBM-TV. Often, games shown on the national CBS network are also shown locally on WBBM-TV in the Chicago market. This is important because sometimes national coverage might overlap with regional coverage, but it’s not always the same game. This is especially helpful for people in Chicago who might be able to watch a game on a local affiliate that they wouldn’t see on the national network. Always check your local listings to confirm.
Local FOX Affiliate (WFLD in Chicago)
Similar to CBS, the local FOX affiliate for Chicago is WFLD. If a Bears game is being broadcast nationally on FOX, it’s likely also being shown locally on WFLD. Again, it’s vital to check your local listings, since the broadcast schedule for a regional channel can be different than national. Always use the local listings to confirm which game is being shown, or if any regional coverage is available in your area.
Other Local Networks
Sometimes there are other local networks that may broadcast games as well. These might be smaller networks in the area and it’s a great idea to check what your TV provider is showing. The local listings, either on your cable TV provider’s guide or online, are the best way to see all the games available in your viewing area.
Streaming Options
Streaming has become extremely popular. Now, many people watch live sports, including football, using streaming services. This flexibility provides an alternative to traditional cable.
NFL+
NFL+ is the official streaming service of the NFL. It allows you to stream games on your mobile devices and tablets. However, depending on your subscription, it has some restrictions, and often it does not include live games on your TV. It’s more suited for accessing local games on mobile, and sometimes on your phone. NFL+ is a great option for watching on-the-go or when you’re not at home in front of your television.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is a popular streaming service that provides live access to many local and national channels. It’s an alternative to cable television, and it also has a large library of on-demand shows and movies. If you’re looking to “cut the cord” (get rid of cable) but still watch live games, Hulu + Live TV is a strong option. It provides a good mix of channels and often provides most of the main networks that show the Bears games, such as CBS, Fox, NBC, and ESPN.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is similar to Hulu + Live TV and also includes many national channels and some local channels that will show Bears games. It’s another viable option for streaming live games without a traditional cable subscription. The subscription also offers cloud DVR service, which is great for recording games to watch later if you can’t catch them live. YouTube TV also allows the viewers to watch games from various devices, like computers, smartphones, and smart TVs.
Sling TV
Sling TV is another streaming option, that provides various packages and channels. It is less expensive than other options but may not include all the channels that the Bears games appear on. So you might need to look closely at the channels and choose a package carefully to ensure you can watch all the games. If it includes a package with CBS, FOX, NBC, or ESPN you’ll be able to see the Bears games shown on those national networks. It is a good option for cord cutters who want to save money, but you need to make sure that you have the channels you require.
Paramount+
Paramount+ is the streaming service from CBS, so if a Bears game is on CBS it is possible that it might be available through this service. It’s another option that is available to viewers, especially if the Bears are playing on a CBS broadcast. It may also provide additional sports content that some football fans may appreciate.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video has also started to show some exclusive Thursday Night Football games, so this is another option, if the Bears are selected to play a Thursday night game, check if it’s on Amazon Prime. With Amazon Prime you also get many other benefits, such as free shipping and other services, in addition to live sports. Always check your listings because not every Thursday night game will be on Amazon.
Using TV Guides and Online Schedules
One of the most important things is understanding how to check TV guides and online schedules. Since the channel may change week to week, this is critical. Using these resources makes it much easier to find out exactly which channel or streaming service is showing the game each week.
TV Guide Channels
Most cable and satellite TV providers offer an on-screen TV guide on your television. These guides usually provide a list of the channels and what they are currently showing and will show later. This is the first place to check when you want to see which channel is showing the Bears game on that week. If it’s a national game you’ll see it on the corresponding channel and if it’s a local broadcast it will be shown on the appropriate affiliate. The TV guide provides you with instant information on what channel is showing the game at any given time.
Online TV Schedules
Many websites that provide TV schedules are also available online. These are usually easy to use, you can input your zip code and they will provide a comprehensive list of what channel is showing the game. The great part about these online tools is they are often more detailed than the TV guide provided by your cable TV provider, they might also include streaming details. Websites like tvguide.com and others provide all the information you need about where to watch the Bears game each week.
Team Websites and Apps
The official website of the Chicago Bears and the team’s app are also very useful resources. These will often provide a full schedule and links that explain where to watch the game. The Chicago Bears website is usually updated regularly, with the most recent updates, it provides useful information to the fans about how and where to watch the games. They also often have information about special programs or streaming options for Bears games.
Tips for Finding the Right Channel
Finding the correct channel to watch the Bears can become much easier if you follow these tips and guidelines, and by using the mentioned strategies you are almost sure to find out where to watch the Bears games each week. Remember that games can change, so check often!
- Check Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Try to find out where the game is playing at least a few days before the game happens, so you don’t have to rush to find the channel on game day.
- Use Multiple Sources: Use a combination of TV guides, online schedules, and the team’s website. This will increase your likelihood of finding the exact information.
- Verify Local Listings: Local channels can sometimes switch games at the last minute, always double-check the listings on the day of the game to be sure that nothing has changed.
- Ask Other Fans: If you have other Bears fans around, ask them what they will be using to watch the game, they might be able to help you out.
- Don’t Forget Streaming: Always remember the streaming options. You can also see if you can watch it on your phone, tablet, or another device, if you don’t have access to a TV.
By using these methods, you’ll be ready to cheer on the Bears, no matter where they play!
So, whether the Chicago Bears are playing under the bright lights of primetime or battling it out on a Sunday afternoon, knowing which network to tune into is essential for every fan. By understanding the difference between national and local broadcasts, exploring streaming options, and utilizing TV guides and online schedules, you’ll be well-prepared to catch all the action. The world of football broadcasting can be a bit complex, but with a little preparation, you’ll never miss a Bears game again!
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Final Thoughts
To find the Bears game, consult your local listings. Game broadcasts frequently shift between channels. These may include CBS, Fox, NBC, or ESPN.
Finding the exact channel depends on the specific week’s schedule. Check sports apps or websites for reliable information. Don’t forget to check your cable provider’s guide.
Essentially, ‘what network is bears game on’ varies each week. You must confirm the broadcast details before game time. The network broadcasting the Bears game is essential information for fans.
