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College football is back for another year. While the bulk of the games pick up next week, you can watch some this Saturday. Games are spread across more than a dozen networks and streamers, and we've combed through them all to identify what you need to know when it comes to how to watch college football, with an emphasis on nationally broadcast games.
The season kicks off with a Florida State vs. Georgia Tech game on ESPN. You can also catch games on ESPN2, FS1, ABC, and the CBS Sports Network this weekend. While some games are available locally depending on where you live, some of the best match-ups this year will be nationally broadcast. If you don't have cable, don't worry. We've identified tons of streaming services to watch games on, from cheaper services that only carry specific networks to elaborate cable alternatives.
Below, we've put together everything you need to know about watching college football this season. We also have a guide on how to watch NFL games and the best sports streaming services you can subscribe to this year.
As with the NFL, college football is spread across several broadcasters and streaming services. ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, NBC, CBS, CBS Sports Network, SEC Network, ABC, FS1, FOX, the Big 10 Network, and the CW are among some of the main ways to watch the games. Of course, you can also catch some games through regional sports networks and other means if you're local.
If you're only looking to watch a game that's on NBC, you can subscribe to Peacock's Premium Plus tier for $14. Likewise, if you're only looking to watch a game on CBS or the Big 10 Network, you can subscribe to Paramount+. You'll need to opt for the Paramount+ with Showtime tier for $13 a month to access CBS live streaming options. Paramount+ offers one-week free trials for new users.
Select ABC and ESPN games will be available on ESPN+, which costs $11 a month. This isn't a guaranteed way to see all ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU games, but several will be available here.
If you don't have cable and you're looking for a way to see almost all nationally broadcast games, it's probably time to check out a live TV package. Sling TV and Fubo can both do the trick. When it comes to Sling, you'll need to subscribe to the Sling Orange + Blue plan for $55 per month to access ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, and select local channels (like FOX, ABC, and NBC, but not CBS). You can also opt for some sports-centric add-ons, which add things like the SEC Network or the Big 10 Network for an additional cost.
With a few exceptions, Fubo is the best live streaming option to catch most nationally broadcast games. It carries ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, FS1, SEC Network, Big 10 Network, the CW, and more. Plans start at $80 per month, and new customers can get a one-week free trial. This is an especially sports-friendly service that will also help you out with many NFL games this season.
If you'll be traveling away from home during any big games, you can still keep up with your subscriptions using a VPN (virtual private network). This is a handy tool that enables you to change your electronic device's virtual location so that you can use your usual websites and apps from anywhere. Since the services we've highlighted require US payment methods, this option will work best for Americans traveling abroad.
ExpressVPN is our go-to recommendation due to its easy-to-use interface and hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee. Check out our ExpressVPN review for additional details, and keep reading to learn how to use a VPN.
Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.
