Super Bowl Pregame Start Time 2025: What Time Does It Begin?

Super Bowl Pregame Start Time 2025: What Time Does It Begin?

By Sarah Miller ·

The Super Bowl pregame coverage typically begins at 12:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on the day of the event, approximately six hours before the kickoff. Major networks like CBS, Fox, NBC, or ABC (depending on the rotation) provide comprehensive live broadcasts featuring player interviews, expert analysis, historical retrospectives, and performances leading up to the game.

What Is the Super Bowl Pregame Show?

The Super Bowl pregame show is a televised spectacle that sets the stage for the NFL's championship game. It combines sports journalism, entertainment, and fan engagement into several hours of live programming.

Key Elements of the Pregame Broadcast

Network Coverage Schedule Overview

Different broadcasters rotate annual rights to air the Super Bowl, but all follow a similar pregame timeline.

Year Super Bowl Date Broadcaster Pregame Start Time (ET) Kickoff Time (ET)
2025LIXFebruary 9, 2025CBS12:00 PM6:30 PM
2024LVIIIFebruary 11, 2024CBS12:00 PM6:30 PM
2023LVIIFebruary 12, 2023FOX12:00 PM6:30 PM
2022LVIFebruary 13, 2022NBC12:00 PM6:30 PM
2021LVFebruary 7, 2021CBS12:00 PM6:30 PM
Table data source:1, 2

The data confirms a consistent pattern: pregame coverage starts at noon ET across major networks, regardless of broadcaster rotation. Kickoff consistently follows around 6:30 PM ET, allowing for a six-and-a-half-hour buildup.

How to Watch the Super Bowl Pregame Live

Fans have multiple options to stream or view the pregame show in real time.

Tips for Maximizing Your Pregame Experience

Enhance your viewing with these expert recommendations:

Arrive Early if Attending In-Person

Fans at the stadium should arrive no later than 3:00 PM local time to enjoy field-level activities, performances, and ceremonial events before the national anthem.

Follow Analysts on Social Media

Experts like Tony Romo, Cris Collinsworth, and Michele Tafoya share real-time insights during the broadcast. Engaging with them enhances understanding of game context.

Use Second-Screen Experiences

The NFL’s mobile app and ESPN’s alternate broadcasts (e.g., Skycam or Mic Up Mode) provide interactive stats and camera angles during the pregame and game.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl Pregame Start Time

What time does the Super Bowl pregame start in Central Time?

The Super Bowl pregame starts at 11:00 AM Central Time (CT), one hour earlier than Eastern Time.

Does the pregame time change every year?

No, the pregame consistently begins at 12:00 PM Eastern Time each year, regardless of the host city or network.

How long is the Super Bowl pregame show?

The main network pregame show runs for about 6.5 hours, starting at 12:00 PM ET and concluding just before the 6:30 PM ET kickoff.

Is there a halftime rehearsal during the pregame?

No, halftime rehearsals occur days in advance. During the pregame, the stage is set up on the field, but no performance rehearsals take place live.

Can I watch the pregame show on NFL Sunday Ticket?

Yes, NFL Sunday Ticket includes full access to the Super Bowl broadcast, including the complete pregame show, via DirecTV or the YouTube NFL Sunday Ticket streaming service.