NFL Fixtures: Schedules, Dates, TV Channels & Start times
Looking to stay updated with all the NFL fixtures being shown in the UK? Check out our comprehensive sports guides at WheresTheMatch for all the details you need to plan your viewing. We provide information on upcoming games, start times, dates, and even the broadcasters showing each event in your region. Make use of our NFL schedule and don't miss a moment of the action!
The NFL, or National Football League, is the premier professional American football league, captivating millions with its thrilling games and world-class athletes. Founded in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, it was renamed the NFL in 1922 and has since become one of the most celebrated sports leagues globally.
Since 2007, the NFL has been hosting regular-season games in London as part of the International Series. These games, held at iconic venues like Wembley Stadium and more recently Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, have introduced British fans to the excitement of live American football. With sell-out crowds and electric atmospheres, the London games have become a key driver in the UK’s growing interest in the sport.
Where to Watch the NFL on TV in The UK
NFL fans in the UK have multiple viewing options. Sky Sports NFL broadcasts live games and exclusive content via subscription, while ITV offers free highlights, key games, and analysis through ITVX. NFL Game Pass provides access to every game and documentaries with a subscription. Channel 5 airs Monday Night Football and weekly recaps for free on My5, and the BBC covers highlights and playoffs via iPlayer. Amazon Prime also streams Thursday Night Football for subscribers.
When Do NFL Fixtures Take Place?
NFL fixtures run from early September to early January, with 32 teams playing 17 matches over 18 weeks. Games are primarily on Sundays, with additional Monday and Thursday night matchups. Preseason games in August offer a glimpse of teams in action, while the playoffs in mid-January lead to the iconic Super Bowl on the first Sunday in February. After the season, the excitement continues with the NFL Draft in April, as teams prepare for the next year.
NFL Competition Format
The NFL comprises 32 teams, divided evenly into two conferences – the AFC and the NFC. Each conference is further split into four divisions – North, South, East, and West – with four teams in each division.
Regular Season
Teams face a mixture of divisional opponents, conference opponents, and inter-conference opponents.
Each team plays six divisional games (home and away against each division rival), ensuring fierce competition and rivalries.
The remaining games are scheduled based on a rotational formula and the team's standing from the previous season, striking a balance between fairness and competitive storytelling.
Playoffs
At the conclusion of the regular season, 14 teams advance to the playoffs:
The four division winners from each conference automatically qualify, earning their spots by finishing top of their respective divisions.
Additionally, three "wild card" teams from each conference (the next best teams based on win-loss records) fill out the remaining playoff spots.
The playoffs are a single-elimination tournament. Each conference holds its own rounds, culminating in the AFC and NFC Championship Games, where the best team from each conference is determined. The two conference champions then collide in one of the most-watched events on the planet – the Super Bowl – to compete for the ultimate prize in American football.
When Are the Next NFL Fixtures?
View upcoming matches with our comprehensive NFL schedule above.
