The NFL has made a significant decision regarding its broadcasting strategy by selecting the historic Packers-Bears wild-card game for a Prime Video broadcast. Scheduled for Saturday night, this matchup exemplifies the league’s commitment to streaming as a vital part of its media rights strategy.
NFL’s Broadcasting Shift
With the recent playoff schedule announcement, fans in the upper Midwest reacted to the streaming of this highly anticipated game. The NFL effectively indicated that its partnerships with streaming services are a priority for both now and the future.
Bidding for Key Matchups
Reports indicate that all five major NFL television partners—CBS, ESPN, Fox, NBC, and Prime Video—competed to showcase either the Packers-Bears or the 49ers-Eagles games, both regarded as premier matchups. The NFL traditionally seeks to place its highest-stakes games during peak viewing times, like the 3:30 p.m. slot on Sunday.
Streaming Viewership Trends
Despite potential inconveniences for fans, the NFL is keen to enhance its streaming presence. Amazon’s Prime Video experience has seen remarkable success this season, delivering an unprecedented average of 15.33 million viewers for “Thursday Night Football,” a 16% increase from the previous year.
- Median viewer age for TNF this season: 49.4 years.
- Viewership increase among those aged 55 and older: 19%.
Future Streaming Opportunities
Conversations between the NFL and major streaming platforms like Amazon, Netflix, and YouTube hint at future innovations, including potential European game packages slated to air on Sunday mornings globally.
Market Impact of Packers-Bears Game
Securing the Packers-Bears game for Prime Video is a strategic win for the platform. The allure of this classic rivalry ensures a higher viewership compared to less compelling matchups. The NFL had initially contemplated a Monday night broadcast for ESPN, recognizing that a win from this game could set the tone for the upcoming divisional round.
Local Broadcast Requirements
As per NFL guidelines, the Packers-Bears game will also be available on local broadcast networks, ensuring accessibility for fans. Fox 32 (WFLD) will handle the coverage in the Chicago area, continuing its partnership that included the Bears-Eagles game earlier this season.
The kickoff for this marquee event is set for 7:05 p.m. on Saturday, promising a thrilling encounter between two of the league’s historic rivals.
