Yes, you can watch the Super Bowl on YouTube TV
YouTube TV carries the network that broadcasts the Super Bowl each year, so you can stream the game live if you have an active subscription. Which network shows it depends on the year — the Super Bowl rotates between CBS, NBC, and Fox. YouTube TV includes all three of these channels in its base package, so you won't need to pay extra or add a sports tier to watch.
The game streams at the same time it airs on television, so you can watch live or use YouTube TV's cloud DVR to record it and watch later. You'll need to be signed into your YouTube TV account and have an active subscription on game day.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube TV includes CBS, NBC, and Fox in its standard package, whichever network broadcasts that year's Super Bowl.
- You can stream the game live on any device where YouTube TV is available, including phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.
- YouTube TV's cloud DVR records the Super Bowl automatically if you add it to your library, letting you watch on your own schedule.
- You must have an active YouTube TV subscription on game day to watch — free trials may not be available during the Super Bowl.
- YouTube TV allows multiple simultaneous streams depending on your plan, so household members can watch on different devices at the same time.
Which Network Shows the Super Bowl This Year
The Super Bowl broadcast rights rotate among CBS, NBC, and Fox on a three-year cycle. To find out which network is showing this year's game, check the NFL's official schedule or search for "Super Bowl [year] broadcast network." Once you know the network, confirm that YouTube TV carries it in your area — all three networks are included in YouTube TV's base package nationwide, but it's worth verifying before game day.
YouTube TV's channel lineup can vary slightly by location, though the major broadcast networks are available everywhere. If you're unsure whether your account includes the right channel, open the YouTube TV app and search for the network name. You'll see it listed if it's part of your subscription.
How to Find and Watch the Game on Game Day
On Super Bowl Sunday, open the YouTube TV app or website and search for "Super Bowl" or the name of the broadcasting network. The game will appear in the search results and in the guide for that channel. Tap or click on the game to open the live stream, and you can start watching when ready.
If you're watching on a smart TV, use the YouTube TV app for that device — most modern TVs (Samsung, LG, Roku, Android TV, and Apple TV) have YouTube TV built in or available for read. On a phone or tablet, use the YouTube TV mobile app. On a computer, go to tv.youtube.com and sign in with your account.
YouTube TV allows multiple people to watch at the same time on different devices, depending on your plan. The standard plan lets up to three streams run simultaneously, so family members can watch on their phones while someone else watches on the TV.
Recording the Super Bowl to Watch Later
YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, so you can record the Super Bowl and watch it whenever you want. To record, find the game in the guide or search results and select "Add to Library" or the record button. The game will be saved to your library automatically.
After the game airs, you can watch your recording from the Library section of YouTube TV. Recordings stay in your library for nine months, giving you plenty of time to rewatch the game or share it with household members. Keep in mind that if you cancel your YouTube TV subscription, your recordings will no longer be available.
What to Do If You Don't Have YouTube TV Yet
If you don't have a YouTube TV subscription, you can sign up on YouTube TV's website or through the app. YouTube TV offers a subscription with no long-term contract, and you can cancel anytime. The subscription includes all major broadcast networks, cable news channels, sports networks, and entertainment channels.
YouTube TV occasionally offers free trial periods, but these are not always available during major sporting events like the Super Bowl. Check the YouTube TV website to see if a trial is currently offered in your area. If a trial is not available, you'll need to pay for a month of service to watch the game.
Troubleshooting Common Streaming Issues
If the game won't load or keeps buffering, check your internet connection first. The Super Bowl draws millions of viewers, which can strain streaming networks. Try restarting your router or moving closer to your WiFi source. If you're on a mobile device, switching from WiFi to a wired connection (if available) or restarting the YouTube TV app often fixes playback problems.
If you see a message that the game is not available in your area, this usually means YouTube TV doesn't carry the broadcasting network in your location. This is rare for major broadcast networks, but it can happen in some regions. Contact YouTube TV support to confirm which channels are available on your account.
If you're signed out or can't access the game, make sure you're logged into the correct YouTube account that has the active subscription. If you share a YouTube TV account with family members, confirm that the account owner's subscription is current and hasn't been canceled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a YouTube TV subscription to watch the Super Bowl?
Yes, you need an active YouTube TV subscription on game day. YouTube TV occasionally offers free trials, but these may not be available during the Super Bowl. Check the YouTube TV website to see what's currently offered in your area.
Can I watch the Super Bowl on YouTube TV if I'm traveling?
Yes, you can watch from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection and are signed into your YouTube TV account. YouTube TV streams the game live regardless of your location within the United States.
What devices can I use to watch the Super Bowl on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV works on smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Roku, Android TV, Apple TV), phones and tablets (iOS and Android), computers (Mac and Windows), and Chromecast devices. You can also watch on some gaming consoles. Check the YouTube TV website for a complete list of supported devices.
If I record the Super Bowl, how long can I keep the recording?
Recordings stay in your YouTube TV library for nine months. After that, they're automatically deleted. If you want to keep the game longer, you'll need to read it or find another way to save it before the nine-month window closes.
Can multiple people in my household watch the Super Bowl at the same time?
Yes, YouTube TV's standard plan allows up to three simultaneous streams. This means three household members can watch on different devices at the same time. If you need more streams, YouTube TV offers a premium plan with additional simultaneous viewing.