For the first time in history, Netflix is airing live NFL games on Christmas. This will give you an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful game in a totally different way. The historical games include two high-stakes matches: the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans.
Here’s everything you need to know about the schedule, streaming options, and what makes these games so special.
An “OG Deal” Between Netflix and the NFL
Netflix has signed a three-year deal with the NFL, which will stream two Christmas Day games in exchange for $150 million annually. This debut lineup is a dream come true for football enthusiasts, who will see four playoff-bound teams battling for their final seeding.
The Steelers (10-5) host the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs (14-1) at 1 p.m. ET, and the Ravens (10-5) take on the Texans, already assured of the AFC South, at 4:30 p.m. ET. Both the Steelers and Ravens are still in competition for the AFC North crown, making these highly awaited games even more dramatic.
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How to Watch
All Netflix subscribers, whether using the ad-supported plan at $6.99/month or the premium tier at $22.99/month, are able to enjoy the games live. There are a total of 283 million subscribers worldwide.If you are not a Netflix subscriber but live in Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Houston, or Baltimore, you are able to watch the games on CBS-TV affiliates where you live.
Netflix Pulling Beyoncé Is Such A Flex
The Christmas Day games promise more than thrilling football. Netflix has arranged a fun pre-game show from 11 a.m. ET, which features Mariah Carey’s classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Beyoncé will perform live at halftime of the Ravens-Texans game, singing songs from her album Cowboy Carter.
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Streaming and NFL’s Wider Strategy
Netflix is coming from the back of the huge success of Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match in November. The event peaked at an incredible 65 million concurrent streams, making it one of the biggest moments in Netflix sports streaming history. However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The stream encountered technical problems, with some viewers facing buffering issues. Will Netflix continue the momentum from the great boxing match and bring a seamless experience for NFL fans? Or will it have another streaming problem? The pressure is on.
Getty Images for Netflix
This is not the NFL’s first foray into streaming. Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and ESPN+ have all previously streamed games, with Amazon leading the charge by hosting Thursday Night Football. But the league’s decision to add Netflix to the fold is a further example of the league’s commitment to increasing its reach through digital channels.
Well, break out the snacks and get cozy—this Christmas, Netflix isn’t just for movies and series anymore.
Also read – All you need to know about Beyoncé’s NFL Christmas performance tomorrow which will be available for just 3 hours post-match in the US.