Key takeaways:
- You can watch many college football games for free with an HD antenna
- Live TV streaming services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV offer extensive college football coverage
- ESPN+ and Paramount+ provide additional college football streaming options at lower prices
Are you a die-hard college football fan looking to cut the cord but worried about missing out on all the action? Fear not! There are plenty of ways to watch live college football games without a traditional cable subscription. In this article, we’ll explore the best options for streaming your favorite teams and rivalries, so you never have to miss a touchdown.
Table of Contents
Free Over-the-Air TV with an HD Antenna
One of the most cost-effective ways to watch college football is by using an HD antenna. This allows you to access local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, which often broadcast high-profile college football games. Simply connect an HD antenna to your TV, and you’ll be able to watch these games in high definition without any monthly fees.
Some of the best HD antennas on the market include:
- Mohu Leaf 50
- Antennas Direct ClearStream Eclipse
- Winegard FlatWave Amped
Live TV Streaming Services
For more comprehensive college football coverage, consider subscribing to a live TV streaming service. These platforms offer a wide range of channels, including those that frequently air college football games, such as ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, FS1, and conference-specific networks like SEC Network and Big Ten Network.
Here are some of the top live TV streaming services for college football:
Hulu + Live TV
- Offers 75+ live TV channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and SEC Network
- Includes access to ESPN+ for even more college football content
- Prices start at $69.99/month
YouTube TV
- Provides 85+ channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, FS1, and conference networks
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage
- Prices start at $64.99/month
Sling TV
- Offers a more affordable option with its Orange package, which includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3
- Can add the Sports Extra package for access to ESPNU, SEC Network, and other sports channels
- Orange package starts at $40/month
FuboTV
- Provides 100+ channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, and conference networks
- Offers a Sports Plus add-on with additional college football coverage
- Plans start at $74.99/month
Streaming Services with College Football Content
In addition to live TV streaming services, there are a few standalone streaming platforms that offer college football content.
ESPN+
- Streams hundreds of live college football games from various conferences
- Offers on-demand replays and exclusive content
- Costs $9.99/month or $99.99/year
Paramount+
- Includes live CBS college football games
- Provides on-demand access to classic games and documentaries
- Plans start at $4.99/month with limited commercials or $9.99/month for ad-free viewing
Conference-Specific Streaming Options
Some college conferences have their own streaming services, which can be a great option if you primarily follow teams within a specific conference.
- ACC Network Extra: Available through the ESPN app with a participating TV provider or live TV streaming service subscription
- Big Ten Network+: Offers live streaming of non-televised Big Ten events through the Fox Sports app and website
- Pac-12 Now: Streams live Pac-12 games and other content, available through the Pac-12 Now app and website with a participating TV provider
Comparing Your Options
To help you decide which streaming option is best for your college football needs, here’s a comparison table:
| Service | Price (per month) | Key Channels | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu + Live TV | $69.99 | ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network | Includes ESPN+ access |
| YouTube TV | $64.99 | ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, FS1, conference networks | Unlimited cloud DVR |
| Sling TV (Orange) | $40.00 | ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3 | Sports Extra add-on available |
| FuboTV | $74.99 | ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, conference networks | Sports Plus add-on available |
| ESPN+ | $9.99 | Exclusive live games, on-demand content | Included with Hulu + Live TV |
| Paramount+ | $4.99 or $9.99 | Live CBS games, on-demand content | Ad-free plan available |
With so many options available, you can easily find a streaming service that fits your budget and provides access to your favorite college football teams and conferences. Say goodbye to expensive cable bills and hello to a more flexible and affordable way to enjoy all the gridiron action.
FAQ
Can I watch college football games for free?
Yes, you can watch some college football games for free using an HD antenna to access local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC.
Which streaming service has the most college football coverage?
Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer extensive college football coverage, including ESPN networks and conference-specific channels.
Is there a way to watch out-of-market college football games?
ESPN+ and conference-specific streaming services like ACC Network Extra and Big Ten Network+ offer access to some out-of-market games.
Can I record college football games with a streaming service?
Many live TV streaming services, such as YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, offer cloud DVR functionality, allowing you to record games and watch them later.
Do I need a smart TV to stream college football?
No, you can use a variety of devices to stream college football, including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV.
