Yes, YouTube TV carries the Super Bowl every year
YouTube TV includes the major broadcast networks that air the Super Bowl — CBS, NBC, and Fox rotate which network gets the game each year. If your YouTube TV subscription is active during Super Bowl Sunday, you can watch the game live on whichever network is broadcasting it that year. The game is included in your regular subscription at no extra cost.
The Super Bowl airs in primetime on Super Bowl Sunday, which falls in early February. Kickoff is typically around 6:30 p.m. Eastern time, though the exact start time varies slightly year to year. YouTube TV's live TV feature lets you tune in the same way you would on a traditional TV — you open the app or website, find the channel carrying the game, and watch in real time.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube TV carries CBS, NBC, and Fox, the three networks that broadcast the Super Bowl on a rotating schedule.
- The Super Bowl is included in your standard YouTube TV subscription with no additional charge or special package required.
- You can watch on any device where YouTube TV works — phone, tablet, computer, or connected TV — as long as you are signed into your account.
- YouTube TV's cloud DVR feature automatically records the game, so you can rewatch it later if you miss the live broadcast.
Which network broadcasts the Super Bowl changes each year
CBS, NBC, and Fox share the rights to broadcast the Super Bowl. The network that carries the game rotates annually. For example, one year CBS might have it, the next year it could be NBC, and the year after that Fox. You can find out which network is broadcasting the upcoming Super Bowl by checking the NFL's official website or your YouTube TV guide a few weeks before the game.
YouTube TV includes all three of these networks in its base package, so no matter which one has the broadcast rights that year, you will have access to it. You do not need to add any sports package or pay extra to watch.
How to find and watch the Super Bowl on YouTube TV
Open YouTube TV on any device where you have the app installed or can access the website. Sign in with your account. On Super Bowl Sunday, navigate to the live TV guide and search for the network broadcasting the game that year, or look for "Super Bowl" in the search bar — YouTube TV usually highlights major sporting events prominently in the guide.
Click on the game to open it, and the live broadcast will begin. If you are watching on a phone or tablet, the video will play in the app. If you are on a computer, it plays in your browser. If you have a connected TV device like a Roku, Apple TV, or Google TV, you can cast the YouTube TV app to your television for a full-screen experience.
YouTube TV's cloud DVR automatically records major live events, including the Super Bowl, so even if you cannot watch at kickoff, the full game is saved to your library. You can rewatch it on demand for up to nine months after it airs.
What to do if you do not have YouTube TV yet
YouTube TV requires an active subscription. If you do not currently subscribe, you will need to sign up before Super Bowl Sunday to watch the game. YouTube TV offers a trial period for new members, though the length and terms of that trial can change. Check YouTube TV's website directly to see what options are available when you are ready to sign up.
Your subscription must be active on the day of the Super Bowl for you to watch. If your subscription lapses before that date, you will not have access to the broadcast.
Other ways to watch if YouTube TV is not an option
If YouTube TV does not work for your situation, the Super Bowl broadcasts on CBS, NBC, or Fox (depending on the year), so you can watch on any service that carries those networks. This includes traditional cable or satellite TV, other streaming services like Hulu with Live TV or Sling TV, or the network's own website or app if you have a cable login.
Some networks also offer free streaming of the Super Bowl on their websites or apps without requiring a cable login, though this varies by year and network. Check the official NFL website closer to Super Bowl Sunday for information about free streaming options that may be available.
Preparing your YouTube TV setup for game day
A few days before the Super Bowl, test your YouTube TV connection on the device you plan to use. Make sure the app is up to date and that you can open it and sign in without problems. If you are planning to watch on a TV, test your casting or connected device ahead of time so you are not troubleshooting during the game.
Check your internet speed — streaming live video requires a stable connection. YouTube TV recommends at least 3 megabits per second for standard definition and 7 megabits per second for HD. If your connection is slower, you may experience buffering or picture quality issues. If you have questions about your internet speed, contact your internet service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special sports package to watch the Super Bowl on YouTube TV?
No. The Super Bowl is included in your standard YouTube TV subscription at no extra cost. You do not need to add any additional package or pay a premium to watch the game.
Can I watch the Super Bowl on YouTube TV if I am traveling?
Yes, as long as you are signed into your YouTube TV account and have an internet connection, you can watch from anywhere. YouTube TV works on phones, tablets, and computers, so you can stream the game while traveling.
What if I miss the Super Bowl live — can I watch it later?
Yes. YouTube TV's cloud DVR automatically records the Super Bowl, and you can rewatch the full game on demand for up to nine months after it airs. Open your library, find the recorded game, and play it whenever you want.
Will YouTube TV have the pre-game and halftime coverage?
Yes. YouTube TV carries the full broadcast from the network airing the game, which includes pre-game shows, the game itself, and halftime entertainment. You get everything that airs on CBS, NBC, or Fox that day.
What if the Super Bowl broadcast is on a network YouTube TV does not carry?
This will not happen. YouTube TV includes CBS, NBC, and Fox — the three networks that hold Super Bowl broadcast rights. One of these networks always has the game, and YouTube TV always carries all three.