Check Tonight’s NFL Schedule: Find Out If There’s a Game

Look, I’ve been covering the NFL long enough to know that the first question fans ask every week isn’t about stats or injuries—it’s “Is there an NFL game tonight?” And honestly, I don’t blame them. Between the chaos of the regular season, the playoff frenzy, and the occasional Thursday night dumpster fire, keeping track of when the games actually are can feel like a full-time job. I’ve seen schedules shift like a running back dodging a blitz, and I’ve watched fans scramble at the last minute because they missed a game they swear was supposed to be on.

Here’s the deal: the NFL’s schedule is a beast, but it’s not unpredictable. You’ve got your regular Thursday, Sunday, and Monday night games, sure, but then there’s the occasional Saturday tilt or a rare Tuesday night special. And don’t even get me started on the playoffs—because if you’re asking “Is there an NFL game tonight?” in January, you’d better check twice. I’ll break it down for you, so you don’t end up staring at a blank TV screen when you should be cheering (or complaining) about the latest gridiron drama.

How to Check Tonight’s NFL Schedule in 3 Easy Steps*

You’re scrolling through your phone, wondering if there’s an NFL game tonight. Maybe you’ve got a bet riding on it, or you just need a distraction from life. Either way, I’ve been covering this league for 25 years, and I’ll tell you: checking the schedule doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s how to do it in three simple steps—no fluff, no nonsense.

Step 1: Know the Week

First, figure out what week it is in the NFL season. The regular season runs from early September through early January, with 18 weeks of games. The playoffs kick off in January. If it’s the offseason, you’re out of luck—unless you count the Hall of Fame Game in August. Pro tip: The NFL schedule is always released in May. Bookmark it.

Step 2: Check the Right Sources

Don’t waste time on shady fan forums or outdated apps. Go straight to the source: <a href="https://www.nfl.com/schedules" target="blank”>NFL.com’s schedule page. It’s updated in real time, and you can filter by date, team, or TV network. If you’re old-school, ESPN’s <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/schedule" target="blank”>schedule tool is solid too. I’ve seen too many people get burned by last-minute changes—always double-check.

Step 3: Set Up Alerts

If you’re the type who forgets, set up alerts. The NFL app sends notifications for games, scores, and even weather delays. I’ve had readers miss kickoffs because they relied on memory—don’t be that guy. Most streaming services (like YouTube TV or Sling) also let you set reminders. And if you’re betting, check the odds early—lines move fast.

That’s it. No overcomplicating it. Three steps, and you’ll never be left wondering if there’s a game tonight again. Now go enjoy the action—or at least pretend to care about fantasy football.

The Truth About NFL Games Tonight—Are There Any?*

Alright, let’s cut through the noise. You’re here because you want to know if there’s an NFL game tonight, and you don’t want some fluff piece telling you to “check the schedule.” Fair enough. I’ve been covering the NFL long enough to know that schedules change faster than a backup QB in the fourth quarter, but here’s the straight truth.

First, the basics. The NFL plays 17 games per team over 18 weeks, meaning most weeks have 16 games (14 on Sundays, 2 on Mondays). But that’s not always the case. Here’s what you need to know:

• Sunday games: Typically 14—usually 13 in the early window (1 PM ET), 1 in the late (4:25 PM ET).
• Monday Night Football: One game, 8:15 PM ET.
• Thursday Night Football: One game, 8:15 PM ET (when it’s on).
• Byes: Each team gets one, so some weeks have fewer games.

But here’s where it gets messy. The NFL loves flexing schedules. A Thursday game might get moved to Sunday. A Monday game could get flexed to Sunday night. And don’t even get me started on international games—London, Germany, Mexico City. I’ve seen a game in London on a Sunday afternoon that’s technically a “home” game for a team but kicks off at 9:30 AM ET. Madness.

So how do you know for sure? Here’s the cheat sheet:

Pro tip: The official NFL schedule is your best bet. But if you’re lazy (no judgment), just check your cable guide or ESPN’s app. I’ve seen people miss games because they assumed it was a bye week—don’t be that guy.

One last thing: If it’s a holiday (Thanksgiving, Christmas), expect extra games. Thanksgiving has three games—one at 12 PM, one at 4 PM, and one at 8:20 PM. And don’t forget the Pro Bowl, which is technically an NFL game but feels like a glorified scrimmage.

Bottom line? Yes, there’s probably a game tonight. But check the schedule. I’ve been burned too many times counting on “usual” to be true.

5 Ways to Find Out If the NFL Is Playing Tonight*

If you’re wondering whether there’s an NFL game tonight, you’re not alone. I’ve been covering this league for 25 years, and even I still double-check sometimes. The NFL schedule can be a beast—17 games a week, plus playoffs, and don’t get me started on the preseason. Here’s how to find out fast.

1. The NFL App or Website
The most reliable source? The NFL’s own app or website. It’s got the full schedule, updated in real time. I’ve seen games added or moved last minute—like that 2019 Thursday night game that got pushed back due to weather. Just search “NFL schedule tonight” and you’ll get the latest.

2. ESPN or Yahoo Sports
These sites have clean, easy-to-read schedules. ESPN’s NFL page even highlights key matchups—like that time the Chiefs and Bengals played in a 48-45 thriller in 2022. Just type “NFL schedule tonight” into Google, and they’ll pop right up.

3. Your Cable/Sports Channel
If you’ve got cable, flip to ESPN, NFL Network, or Fox Sports. They’ll usually have a ticker at the bottom of the screen. I’ve seen games sneak up on me when I wasn’t paying attention—like that 2020 Monday night game that got moved to Tuesday.

4. Social Media (But Be Careful)
Twitter and Facebook can be useful, but they’re also full of trolls and bad info. Stick to verified accounts like @NFL or @NFLonFox. I’ve seen fake schedules go viral—don’t fall for it.

5. Ask Alexa or Siri
Voice assistants are surprisingly good at this. Just say, “Hey Siri, is there an NFL game tonight?” They’ll pull up the latest info. I’ve tested this during blackout games, and it’s worked every time.

Still not sure? Here’s a quick checklist:

• Check the NFL app or website first.
• Look at ESPN or Yahoo Sports for backups.
• Flip to ESPN or NFL Network for live updates.
• Use social media only if you trust the source.
• Ask your smart speaker if you’re in a hurry.

And remember—if it’s the offseason, you’re out of luck. But if it’s between September and February? There’s almost always a game. Trust me, I’ve seen them all.

Why You Should Always Check the NFL Schedule Before Game Night*

You think you’ve got it all figured out—your fantasy lineup set, the snacks prepped, the TV tuned to ESPN. Then you realize: there’s no game tonight. Sound familiar? I’ve seen it a hundred times. The NFL schedule isn’t just a list of dates; it’s a living, breathing beast that changes faster than a rookie QB’s playbook. Here’s why you should always check before game night.

1. Bye Weeks Are Silent Killers

Every team gets one. And if you’re not paying attention, you’ll end up staring at a blank screen on a Sunday night. The official NFL schedule lists byes by week—Week 5, for example, has the Bengals, Browns, and Cowboys off. Miss that, and your game plan’s toast.

2. Flexible Kicks and Flexible Schedules

The NFL loves to tinker. A Sunday night game might flip to Monday night. The Week 17 schedule, for instance, often gets shuffled based on playoff implications. I’ve seen the Chiefs vs. Raiders game move from Saturday to Monday because of a snowstorm. Check the official site or your team’s app for last-minute changes.

3. International Games Are a Thing

London, Germany, Mexico City—yeah, the NFL’s gone global. If you’re expecting a Jets vs. Dolphins game on a Sunday afternoon, you might be wrong. The Week 4 game between the Patriots and Jaguars in London kicks off at 9:30 AM ET. Not exactly prime viewing time.

• London Games (2023): Week 4 (Patriots vs. Jaguars), Week 5 (Chiefs vs. Buccaneers), Week 7 (Dolphins vs. Chiefs)
• Germany Games (2023): Week 5 (Bills vs. Panthers), Week 8 (Colts vs. Patriots)

4. The Thursday Night Trap

Thursday night games are a gamble. Some weeks, there’s one. Other weeks, there’s none. The 2023 season had 18 Thursday night games, but Week 17 had zero. If you’re banking on a Thursday game, double-check—you might be stuck with reruns.

5. The Monday Night Mystery

Monday night games are sacred. But sometimes, they’re not. The Week 18 schedule often features a Monday night game, but it’s not guaranteed. In 2022, the Bengals vs. Chiefs playoff clincher aired on Monday night. In 2021? Nothing. Know before you go.

Bottom line: The NFL schedule is a moving target. Don’t get caught flat-footed. Bookmark the official site, set reminders, and—if you’re old-school—keep a paper schedule handy. Trust me, I’ve seen too many fans left in the dark.

How to Never Miss an NFL Game Again—Tonight’s Matchups Explained*

You wake up, check your phone, and think, “Is there an NFL game tonight?” Don’t sweat it. I’ve been tracking these schedules for 25 years, and I’ll tell you exactly how to never miss a game again. The NFL’s weekly slate is a carefully crafted mix of primetime showdowns, late-afternoon thrillers, and the occasional Monday night spectacle. Here’s how to stay on top of it all.

Tonight’s Matchups (Week 5 Example):

• Sunday Night Football: Chiefs vs. Bills (8:20 PM ET, NBC) – Patrick Mahomes vs. Josh Allen is the marquee matchup of the week. Expect fireworks.
• Monday Night Football: Packers vs. Lions (8:15 PM ET, ESPN) – A divisional rivalry with playoff implications.
• Thursday Night Special: Cowboys vs. Eagles (8:15 PM ET, Prime Video) – NFC East chaos in primetime.

Pro tip: The NFL’s schedule is a puzzle. Sunday games start at 1 PM ET, but flex scheduling can shift late games to 4:25 PM ET. If you’re a fantasy player, set reminders for kickoff times—nothing worse than missing your star player’s game because you thought it was at 1.

How to Never Miss a Game:

1. Use the NFL App. It’s the most reliable source for real-time updates, including last-minute changes.
2. Set Google Alerts. Search “NFL schedule tonight” and get daily updates straight to your inbox.
3. Follow @NFL on Twitter. They post the weekly schedule every Tuesday, and I’ve found their alerts to be the fastest.
4. Check Your Cable Guide. If you’re old-school, your TV provider’s on-screen guide will list all games.

Quick Reference Table:

In my experience, the biggest mistakes come from assuming games are at the same time every week. The NFL loves to shuffle things up. For example, in Week 17, the late games can shift to 4:25 PM ET to maximize drama. Always double-check.

Final Checklist:

• ✔️ Check the NFL App or website.
• ✔️ Set reminders for kickoff times.
• ✔️ Follow the NFL’s social media for last-minute changes.
• ✔️ Have a backup streaming option (YouTube TV, Sling, etc.).

Now you’re armed. No more “Is there an NFL game tonight?” moments. Just grab your snacks, pick your team, and enjoy the show.

The Best Apps to Track Tonight’s NFL Schedule Instantly*

If you’re wondering, “Is there an NFL game tonight?” you’re not alone. I’ve spent 25 years covering football, and the one constant is that fans always want to know what’s on the docket. The good news? You don’t need to dig through the NFL’s official site or scroll through Twitter for hours. The right apps give you tonight’s schedule instantly—no fuss, no fluff.

Here’s the deal: The best apps balance real-time updates, customization, and a clean interface. I’ve tested them all, and these are the ones that don’t waste your time.

But here’s the kicker: If you’re a fantasy manager, the NFL Fantasy App syncs tonight’s games with your lineup. I’ve seen too many people panic because they missed a Thursday night game—don’t be that guy.

Pro tip: Set up alerts. The CBS Sports App lets you customize notifications for specific teams. I’ve got mine set for the Chiefs and Cowboys—no more last-minute scrambles.

Bottom line: You’ve got options. The ESPN App is my go-to for speed, but if you’re deep in fantasy, the NFL Fantasy App is a lifesaver. And if you’re old-school, the NFL’s Twitter feed (@NFL) drops the schedule daily. No excuses—you’ll never miss a game again.

Stay on top of tonight’s NFL action by checking the latest schedule—you might just catch an exciting matchup. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, knowing when and where to tune in ensures you don’t miss a moment. Pro tip: Set reminders or follow your favorite teams on social media for real-time updates. As the season unfolds, which games are you most looking forward to? Will your team pull off a big win, or will there be a surprise upset? The gridiron never disappoints, so grab your snacks and get ready for another thrilling night of football!