Monday Night Football Start Time: What Time Does It Begin?

By Sarah Miller · December 7, 2047

Monday Night Football typically starts at 8:15 PM Eastern Time (ET) during the NFL regular season. This kickoff time has been standardized in recent years, though occasional variations may occur due to special events, doubleheaders, or broadcast scheduling.

Understanding Monday Night Football Start Times

The start time for Monday Night Football (MNF) is a key detail for fans across the United States and around the world. As one of the most iconic weekly sports broadcasts, MNF consistently draws large audiences. The standard kickoff is set for 8:15 PM Eastern Time, which translates to 7:15 PM Central, 6:15 PM Mountain, and 5:15 PM Pacific.

Why Does the Game Start at 8:15 PM ET?

This timing allows ESPN, the exclusive broadcaster of Monday Night Football, to maximize viewership during prime time. The slot follows pre-game shows and accommodates live coast-to-coast viewing for both East and West Coast audiences.

NFL games on Monday nights are scheduled for national television exposure.
8:15 PM ET avoids direct competition with Sunday and Thursday night games.
The time allows for advertising, analysis segments, and halftime coverage within the broadcast window.

Schedule Variations and Exceptions

While 8:15 PM ET is the norm, there are exceptions based on league needs and broadcasting strategies.

Doubleheader Weeks

In select weeks, ESPN airs two games back-to-back. The first game usually starts at 7:15 PM ET, followed by the second at 8:15 PM ET. These doubleheaders typically occur later in the season, especially during Week 15 and beyond.

Flex Scheduling in Late Season

Starting in Week 12, the NFL implements flexible scheduling to ensure more competitive matchups on Monday nights. This can affect team preparation and fan planning but enhances overall broadcast quality.

International or Special Events

Rarely, games may be rescheduled due to extreme weather, stadium conflicts, or global events (e.g., international games). However, these do not typically alter the standard 8:15 PM ET start unless absolutely necessary.

Season	Start Time (ET)	Number of Games	Doubleheader Weeks	Broadcaster
2021	8:15 PM	17	0	ESPN
2022	8:15 PM	17	3	ESPN
2023	8:15 PM	17	4	ESPN
2024	8:15 PM	17 (scheduled)	4 (projected)	ESPN
2025	8:15 PM	17 (expected)	TBD	ESPN/ABC*

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows consistent adherence to the 8:15 PM ET start time across recent seasons. Doubleheader frequency has increased, reflecting ESPN's strategy to expand live content. Starting in 2025, select Monday Night Football games will also air on ABC, expanding accessibility beyond cable.

How to Watch Monday Night Football

Fans have multiple options to catch the weekly matchup:

Live TV: Broadcast on ESPN nationwide.
Streaming: Available via ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV.
Radio: Westwood One provides national radio coverage.
Mobile: The ESPN app allows authenticated subscribers to stream games on smartphones and tablets.

Common Questions About Monday Night Football Start Time

What time does Monday Night Football start in 2025?

Monday Night Football is expected to start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time in 2025, consistent with recent seasons. Some games may be simulcast on ABC starting in 2025 under new broadcast agreements.

Is Monday Night Football always at 8:15 PM ET?

Most games start at 8:15 PM ET, but exceptions occur during doubleheader weeks when the first game begins at 7:15 PM ET. Flex scheduling may also influence matchups, though start times remain largely unchanged.

What time does the Monday Night Football pregame show begin?

ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown typically starts at 7:00 PM ET, offering analysis, player interviews, and predictions ahead of the 8:15 PM kickoff.

Does Monday Night Football ever start earlier or later than 8:15 PM?

Games rarely start outside the 7:15–8:15 PM ET window. In extraordinary circumstances—such as severe weather or broadcast emergencies—a delay could occur, but this is uncommon.

Can I watch Monday Night Football for free?

Yes, through services that offer free trials (e.g., YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV). Additionally, select 2025 games will air on ABC, a free over-the-air network, allowing viewers with antennas to watch without a subscription.