What Station Is Monday Night Football On?

By Sarah Miller · January 6, 2052

Monday Night Football is broadcast on ABC and ESPN in the United States, with select games available on ESPN+ via streaming. Starting in 2023, the long-running NFL series split its broadcast between ABC and ESPN, expanding access to a broader audience. All games are also streamed live on ESPN.com, the ESPN app, and through authorized providers with a valid cable subscription. Additionally, fans can watch replays and exclusive content on ESPN+.

What Is Monday Night Football?

Monday Night Football (MNF) is one of the most iconic weekly television broadcasts in American sports. Since its debut in 1970, it has featured top National Football League (NFL) matchups aired every Monday night during the regular season, typically kicking off at 8:15 PM Eastern Time.

A Cultural Sports Institution

Beyond just football, MNF helped popularize prime-time sports programming and brought the NFL into mainstream living rooms across America. It has featured legendary announcers like Howard Cosell, Al Michaels, and Joe Tessitore, and has hosted some of the most memorable games in NFL history.

First aired: September 21, 1970
Original network: ABC
Current networks: ABC, ESPN, and ESPN+
Typical kickoff time: 8:15 PM ET
Season duration: Week 2 to Week 18 of the NFL regular season

Where to Watch Monday Night Football in 2025

In 2025, viewers have multiple options to catch every Monday Night Football game, whether through traditional TV or digital platforms.

Television Broadcast Channels

The primary linear TV channels for MNF are ABC and ESPN. Games alternate weekly between the two networks, with marquee matchups often scheduled on ABC for wider over-the-air reach.

Streaming Options

Fans who prefer to stream can access all games through the following services:

ESPN+: Required for full access; includes live streams and on-demand replays.
ESPN App / ESPN.com: Free for subscribers of participating cable providers.
Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV: All carry ESPN and ABC in most markets.
Amazon Prime Video: Some international rights, but not currently used for U.S. MNF games.

Platform	Channel	Subscription Needed?	Cost (Monthly)	Simultaneous Streams
Over-the-Air TV	ABC	No	Free (with antenna)	1
Cable/Satellite	ESPN	Yes	Included in most packages (~$60+)	2–4
Live TV Streaming	ESPN & ABC	Yes	$64.99–$75.99	3–4
ESPN App	ESPN & ABC	Yes (cable login)	Free with subscription	2
ESPN+	ESPN+ (streaming only)	Yes	$10.99 (standalone), $14.99 (with ads)	2

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that while traditional cable remains an option, most viewers now access Monday Night Football through live TV streaming platforms or direct subscriptions like ESPN+. The availability of free over-the-air broadcasts on ABC makes it the most accessible option for casual fans without a subscription.

How the Broadcast Schedule Works

The NFL schedules Monday Night Football games from Week 2 through Week 18 of the regular season. Not all weeks feature a doubleheader, but when they do, the second game airs exclusively on ESPN+.

Doubleheader Weeks

Occur 4–6 times per season
First game: 8:15 PM ET
Second game: 8:15 PM ET (following first game’s conclusion)
Second game requires ESPN+ subscription

Flexible Scheduling

Late in the season, the NFL uses flexible scheduling to ensure more competitive and meaningful matchups are featured on Monday nights, especially during Weeks 15–18.

International Viewing Options

Fans outside the United States can watch Monday Night Football through several official outlets:

NFL Game Pass International: Available on DAZN in over 170 countries; includes live and on-demand games.
DAZN: Carries ESPN-produced games in Canada, Germany, Austria, and Japan.
Sky Sports (UK): Broadcasts select MNF games.
TSN (Canada): Airs all games live.

Note: Blackout restrictions may apply based on regional broadcasting rights.

About the Current MNF Commentary Team

As of 2025, ESPN's lead broadcast team for Monday Night Football includes:

Joe Tessitore: Play-by-play announcer
Todd McShay: Analyst and draft expert
Booger McFarland: Color commentator
Peter Schrager: Sideline reporter

The team brings a mix of play analysis, insider knowledge, and energetic delivery suited for prime-time viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monday Night Football

What channel is Monday Night Football on tonight?

Monday Night Football alternates between ABC and ESPN each week. Check your local listings or visit ESPN.com to confirm which channel is airing tonight’s game. Both networks typically promote the upcoming matchup throughout the day.

Can I watch Monday Night Football without cable?

Yes. You can stream all games on ESPN+ or through live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, or Sling TV, all of which offer free trials and no long-term contracts.

Is Monday Night Football on ESPN or ABC this week?

It depends on the week. The NFL splits the MNF package between ABC and ESPN. High-profile games, especially late in the season, are more likely to air on ABC for broader reach. Visit the official NFL or ESPN schedule page to confirm the current week’s broadcaster.

What time does Monday Night Football start?

Games typically start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time (7:15 PM Central). Kickoff times may vary slightly due to pregame coverage or special events, but 8:15 PM ET is the standard start time.

Do you need ESPN+ to watch Monday Night Football?

You don’t need ESPN+ to watch the main Monday Night Football game, as it airs on ABC or ESPN. However, if there’s a doubleheader, the second game streams exclusively on ESPN+. A subscription is also useful for replays, highlights, and additional NFL content.

Final Thoughts

Monday Night Football remains a cornerstone of NFL broadcasting, offering fans weekly access to top-tier matchups. With games airing on both ABC and ESPN—and streaming options through ESPN+ and live TV platforms—viewers in 2025 have more flexibility than ever to watch their favorite teams under the lights. Whether you’re using an antenna, cable, or a streaming service, catching the action is easier than ever.