Is Bills Preseason Game on TV? Your Ultimate Guide

Finding out if the Bills preseason game is on TV can sometimes feel like navigating a maze. You want to catch the action, see the rookies, and get hyped for the regular season, but where can you actually watch it? This guide covers everything you need to know about watching Buffalo Bills preseason games, from local broadcasts to streaming options and national coverage.

How to Watch Buffalo Bills Preseason Games

Preseason football offers a sneak peek into the upcoming season, allowing fans to see new players and strategies in action. For Bills fans, the anticipation is always high. But figuring out where the games are broadcast requires some inside knowledge. Here’s a breakdown of the typical broadcast channels and platforms:

• Local Broadcasts: Most Bills preseason games are aired on the team’s local broadcast partners. In the Buffalo area, this is typically WIVB-TV, the local CBS affiliate. Check your local listings to confirm the channel in your area.
• NFL Network: The NFL Network often shows a selection of preseason games nationwide, although these are subject to blackout restrictions in the team’s local market.
• Streaming Services: Live streaming services like NFL+, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV often carry local network channels, allowing you to watch the Bills preseason games if they’re part of your local broadcast package. Be sure to check their availability in your specific region.

Understanding Preseason Broadcast Schedules

Preseason schedules can be tricky. Unlike regular season games, preseason broadcasts are less consistent and can vary based on a number of factors. Here are key things to keep in mind:

• National vs. Local: Nationally televised games are usually announced closer to the preseason, while locally broadcast games are typically confirmed closer to the game date.
• Blackout Restrictions: Even if a game is on the NFL Network, it may be blacked out in the Buffalo market if it’s also being shown on local television.
• Team Website: The official Buffalo Bills website is a reliable source for the most up-to-date broadcast information. Check their schedule page for listings specific to your location.

Buffalo Bills Preseason TV Schedule and Streaming Options

Tips for Finding Broadcast Information

Staying on top of preseason broadcast details requires some proactive searching. Here are a few tips to make the process easier:

• Team Social Media: Follow the Buffalo Bills on social media for updates and announcements regarding broadcast schedules.
• Local News Outlets: Check local sports news websites and TV channels for information on upcoming game broadcasts in your area.
• Sports Apps: Many sports apps, including the official NFL app, provide updated game schedules and broadcast information.

Why Preseason Games Matter

While the wins and losses don’t count towards the regular season standings, preseason games offer valuable insights:

• Rookie Evaluations: See the newest Bills players in action and gauge their potential impact on the team.
• Strategy Previews: Get a glimpse of new plays and formations the team might use in the regular season.
• Position Battles: Watch players compete for starting roles and see how the depth chart takes shape.

“Preseason is a crucial evaluation period,” says John Madden, former NFL coach and commentator. “It allows coaches to see how players perform under pressure and make decisions about the final roster.”

Fans Watching a Bills Preseason Game at Home

The Impact of National Broadcasts

Having a Bills preseason game broadcast nationally on the NFL Network has several benefits:

• Increased Exposure: It allows fans across the country to see the team and generates excitement for the upcoming season.
• Player Recognition: National broadcasts provide a larger platform for players to showcase their skills and gain recognition.
• Team Branding: National coverage reinforces the Bills brand and strengthens their national presence.

Is Bills Preseason Game on TV in Canada?

For Canadian Bills fans, finding broadcast information may require different approaches. While some games might be available on national sports networks like TSN or RDS, it’s important to check their specific programming schedules. Streaming options may also vary in Canada.

“The international fanbase for the Bills is growing,” observes Emily Davies, a sports journalist specializing in NFL viewership. “The demand for access to preseason games, especially in Canada, highlights the expanding reach of the league.”

Streaming Buffalo Bills Preseason Game in Canada

Alternative Viewing Options

If you can’t access a television broadcast or streaming service, there are other ways to stay updated:

• Radio Broadcasts: Local radio stations often carry live audio broadcasts of Bills preseason games.
• Game Recaps and Highlights: NFL.com and various sports websites provide game recaps, highlights, and analysis after the game.
• Social Media: Follow Bills beat reporters and fan accounts on Twitter for real-time updates and commentary during the game.

Conclusion

Finding out if a Bills preseason game is on TV requires a little bit of detective work. By using the resources outlined in this guide – checking local listings, the Bills website, streaming services, and social media – you can stay informed and catch all the preseason action. So, get ready to cheer on the Bills and witness the first steps towards another exciting season!

FAQ

1. Where can I find the official Bills preseason schedule? The most accurate and up-to-date schedule is always available on the official Buffalo Bills website.

2. Are all Bills preseason games televised? While most are, not every game is guaranteed a television broadcast, especially those played further away from Buffalo.

3. What if the game is blacked out in my area? Blackout restrictions apply when a game is being broadcast locally. Check for alternative viewing options like radio or online recaps.

4. How can I watch Bills preseason games if I don’t have cable? Streaming services are a popular alternative. Check if NFL+, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV offer the local channels that broadcast the games.

5. Does the NFL Network show all preseason games? The NFL Network carries a selection of preseason games, but not all of them. Their schedule is usually released closer to the start of the preseason.

6. Can I watch Bills preseason games outside the US? Availability varies depending on the country. Check local sports channels and streaming services for options. Gamepass International often carries preseason games internationally.

7. Are there free ways to watch Bills preseason games? Sometimes, local networks offer free streaming options on their websites. Also, look out for free trials on streaming services.