What Channel Is NFL Football on DIRECTV Today?

By Sarah Miller · May 13, 2051

If you're wondering what channel is NFL football on DIRECTV today, the answer depends on the game, time, and broadcast network. Generally, NFL games on DIRECTV are found on CBS (channel 11), FOX (channel 13), NBC (channel 5), ESPN (channel 206), or NFL Network (channel 704). For Sunday afternoon games, check CBS or FOX; prime-time matchups air on NBC's Football Night in America and Sunday Night Football (channel 5) or ESPN's Monday Night Football (channel 206). NFL RedZone (channel 705) is also available for live whip-around coverage from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET on Sundays.

How to Find Today’s NFL Game on DIRECTV

Finding the correct channel for NFL games on DIRECTV requires understanding which network holds broadcasting rights for a given matchup. The league splits games across several networks based on day and time:

Sunday Afternoons: CBS and FOX split regional doubleheader games.
Sunday Nights: NBC airs Sunday Night Football.
Monday Nights: ESPN broadcasts Monday Night Football.
Thursday Nights: Prime Video and NFL Network share coverage.
Saturday Games: Late-season matchups appear on ABC, ESPN, or NFL Network.

DIRECTV Channel Lineup for NFL Broadcasts

The following table outlines key channels where NFL content airs on DIRECTV:

Network	DIRECTV Channel	Typical Game Times	Example Programming
CBS	11	Sun 1:00 PM & 4:25 PM ET	Regional AFC games
FOX	13	Sun 1:00 PM & 4:25 PM ET	Regional NFC games
NBC	5	Sun 8:20 PM ET	Sunday Night Football
ESPN	206	Mon 8:15 PM ET	Monday Night Football
NFL Network	704	Thu 8:15 PM ET	Thursday Night Football
NFL RedZone	705	Sun 1:00–8:00 PM ET	Live look-ins during scoring drives
ABC / ESPN+	7 (ABC), App (ESPN+)	Sat late season, Wild Card	Streaming required for some

Table data source:DIRECTV Sports Lineup, NFL Official Schedule

Data shows that CBS and FOX carry over 70% of regular-season games, primarily divided by conference affiliation. NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network handle national windows with consistent weekly programming. Notably, NFL RedZone on channel 705 does not show full games but provides real-time highlights and live switches to active scoring threats—ideal for fantasy football players.

Using NFL RedZone and Other Premium Features on DIRECTV

DIRECTV offers one of the most comprehensive linear TV experiences for NFL fans, especially through NFL RedZone (channel 705). This channel, hosted by Scott Hanson, delivers "whip-around" coverage every Sunday afternoon during the regular season, jumping to games with live scoring potential.

Benefits of NFL RedZone on DIRECTV

No missed touchdowns: Switches live during red-zone drives.
Available in HD and compatible with Genie DVR systems.
Includes "zing” sound effect when teams enter scoring range.
Complements local broadcasts without replacing them.

In addition, DIRECTV STREAM (formerly AT&T TV) subscribers can access NFL Sunday Ticket, allowing out-of-market Sunday afternoon games—a major advantage for fans supporting distant teams.

Today’s NFL Game Schedule and Channel Guide (Week-by-Week Reference)

To determine what channel NFL football is on today, consider the day of the week:

Sundays: Early and late games on CBS/FOX (channels 11/13); primetime on NBC (channel 5).
Mondays: Monday Night Football on ESPN (channel 206).
Thursdays: Thursday Night Football alternates between NFL Network (channel 704) and Prime Video (streaming only).
Holiday Games: Thanksgiving and Christmas matchups may appear on CBS, FOX, NBC, or Amazon Prime.

For the most accurate information, use the DIRECTV Guide (Guide > Sports > Football) or visit directv.com and search “NFL schedule” for real-time updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Channels on DIRECTV

What channel is NFL football on DIRECTV today?

The channel depends on the day and broadcast network. Most Sunday games are on CBS (11) or FOX (13), Sunday nights on NBC (5), Monday nights on ESPN (206), and Thursday nights on NFL Network (704). Check your local listings or the DIRECTV guide for exact details.

Is NFL RedZone available on DIRECTV?

Yes, NFL RedZone is available on DIRECTV channel 705. It airs every Sunday from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET during the regular season and provides live look-ins during red-zone drives.

Do I need NFL Sunday Ticket for out-of-market games on DIRECTV?

Yes, to watch out-of-market Sunday afternoon games, you need NFL Sunday Ticket. It's available through DIRECTV STREAM and select packages, offering access to all non-local CBS and FOX games.

Why can’t I find Thursday Night Football on DIRECTV?

While NFL Network (channel 704) carries some Thursday Night Football games, others are exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video. You’ll need a Prime subscription and the Prime Video app to watch those matchups.

Can I record NFL games on DIRECTV?

Yes, DIRECTV’s Genie HD DVR and Genie Mini allow you to record live NFL games. Simply set a recording from the guide, and playback up to 14 days later depending on your plan and storage.

Final Tips for Watching NFL Football on DIRECTV

To ensure you never miss a snap, use the DIRECTV app to check today’s NFL game schedule and corresponding channels. Remember that local blackouts may apply, and streaming options like NFL+, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV offer alternatives if you don’t have DIRECTV. However, for dedicated fans who want NFL RedZone and Sunday Ticket integration, DIRECTV remains a top-tier choice in 2025.