The Michigan Wolverines recently clinched their 10th national championship in college football at Houston's NRG Stadium, sparking the question: who will rise to the challenge next? As the season unfolds, with every strategic play and hard-fought victory leading to the pinnacle of college football glory, consider turning to TV streaming services for front-row access to the action.
With a decade of experience as a TV critic, I'm here to help you navigate the options and select a streaming service that meets your needs. Prepare for a season filled with intense rivalries and exhilarating touchdowns. From navigating free trials and understanding conference coverage to evaluating costs and scheduling, I've got the information you need.
» Ready for a game day upgrade? Discover more reasons to switch to live TV.
Our 5 Best College Football Streaming Platforms at a Glance:
- Hulu + Live TV - Best college football streaming platform overall
- fuboTV - Best for multiview on Apple TV
- Sling TV - Best for customizable channel packages
- ESPN+ - Best for exclusive college sports content
- DIRECTV Stream - Best for access to major networks
1. Hulu + Live TV
Cost - From $76.99/month
Free Trial - No
Special Offers - Includes Disney+ and ESPN+ as part of its package
Hulu + Live TV provides extensive sports coverage, including major networks like ESPN, ABC, and CBS. For college football fans, this means access to live games, pre-game analyses, and post-game highlights.
I find Hulu + Live TV's interface easy to use for watching shows on multiple devices. It lets me select my favorite teams and automatically records the games for me. It also gives me recommendations based on my choices.
» Find out why you should subscribe to a TV streaming service.
Why we chose Hulu + Live TV for streaming college football:
- Hulu app for mobile streaming
- Cloud DVR to record and rewatch games
- 95 live channels
Supported devices:
- Web browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari
- Mobile devices: Apple iPhones and iPads, Android phones and tablets
- TV-connected devices: Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Echo Show, Fire Tablets, Samsung Smart TVs, Roku
2. fuboTV
Cost - From $64.99/month
Free Trial - 7 days
Special Offers - N/A
fuboTV's FanView shows you live scores, stats, and real-time updates while you're watching college football games. It keeps you informed without distracting you from the action.
Another handy feature that my whole house enjoys is fuboTV's Family Share option. You can create up to six personalized profiles on a single account. Each member can choose their preferences, recordings, and recommendations.
Why we chose fuboTV for streaming college football:
- Over 40 specialty sports networks
- Pac-12 network
- 4K ultra HD streaming
Supported devices:
- Web browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari
- Mobile devices: Apple iPhones and iPads, Android phones and tablets
- TV-connected devices: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Xbox
3. Sling TV
Cost - From $40/month
Free Trial - 3 days
Special Offers - You get 50% off your first month
Sling TV's Orange plan includes essential college football coverage like ESPN and ESPN2. Alternatively, combine it with Sling Blue to get additional channels like FS1, NBC, and FOX, all of which host college football games.
My favorite feature on Sling TV is the Sports Extra pack. It gives you access to conference-specific content through ACC Network, ESPNU, and SEC Network. Depending on your location, you can also watch games on local TV like ABC and CBS.
Why we chose Sling TV for streaming college football:
- Multiview on up to 10 devices
- ESPN+ integration via Sling app
- Live sports score menu
Supported devices:
- Web browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari
- Mobile devices: Apple iPhones and iPads, Android phones and tablets
- TV-connected devices: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox, LG Smart TVs, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs
4. ESPN+
Cost - From $10.99/month
Free Trial - No
Special Offers - Bundle Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ for $13.99/month
ESPN+'s affordability makes it an attractive option for college football sports fans. It offers live streams for 350 Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) games from 11 conferences, including AAC, CUSA, and more. As a bonus, ESPN+ analyzes which teams bring back the most production and which have the most to replace for the upcoming season.
ESPN+ also shows exclusive college football content with multiple games every week. I love that I can enjoy all the matches live or catch them later with its on-demand functionality. Beyond football, ESPN+ provides additional sports coverage, including UFC, soccer, and baseball.
Why we chose ESPN+ for streaming college football:
- Access to FCS games and Power 5 content
- No contracts or fees beyond monthly subscriptions
- Expert sports analyses and commentary
Supported devices:
- Web browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Safari
- Mobile devices: Apple, Android, Amazon Fire tablets
- TV-connected devices: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Cox Contour TV and Contour Stream Player, LG Smart TVs, Roku, Samsung Tizen Smart TVs, Xfinity Flex and X1 TV Box, Xumo TV and XiOne Box, Xbox, PlayStation
5. DIRECTV Stream
Cost - From $69.99/month
Free Trial - 5 days
Special Offers - $150-$400 Visa reward card, depending on chosen package
DIRECTV's local channels let you catch matchups on regional sports networks like Big Ten. You can experience the Big Ten Conference exclusively with original stories and behind-the-scenes college football content throughout the season.
DIRECTV's NFL Sunday Ticket is a major draw card if you're a football fanatic like me. This add-on provides access to every NFL out-of-market Sunday afternoon game. You can also stream in-market and national NFL games through local channels like CBS, FOX, NBC, and NFL Network.
Why we chose DIRECTV Stream for streaming college football:
- HD sports programs
- A broad selection of live sports and entertainment
- DIRECTV mobile streaming app
Supported devices:
- Web browsers: Chrome, Edge, Safari
- Mobile devices: Apple, Android, Amazon Fire Tablet
- TV-connected devices: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Google TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung, Telly TV
Why Choose Streaming Over Cable for College Football?
There are several reasons to stream college football games instead of watching them on cable:
- Cost and freedom: Streaming is often cheaper for the channels you get, which is just one of the reasons streaming is so worth the price. Most platforms also let you cancel at any time without penalties. In contrast, cable costs keep increasing and can lock you into long contracts, sometimes with hidden fees.
- Flexible viewing: With streaming, you can start, stop, or pause games—a feature that's not available with cable. This is ideal if you want to take a break to get snacks or visit the restroom.
- Personalized viewing: Many streaming platforms can recommend new sports and teams for you to follow based on your previous views. Some also provide expert running commentary or player insights, which is useful for viewers who want to learn more about the game.
» Still not convinced? Try these streaming services with free/paid trials now.
How Do I Watch College Football Without Cable?
You can find college football games on various local channels, sports networks, and streaming services. A live TV streaming platform like YouTube TV or fuboTV will give you the most channels. These may cost more, but you can cancel anytime.
A single streaming service can sometimes show limited games but is often cheaper. You can merge plans for additional channels and more coverage. That's just one of the reasons why you should bundle your streaming services.
Which Channels Will Be Showing College Football Games?
Channel
Coverage
ABC
Broadcasts major games and matchups
ACC Network
Dedicated to Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) games
Big Ten Network
Focuses on Big Ten Conference matchups
CBS
Airs select games, including SEC matchups
CBS Sports Network
Provides additional coverage and analysis
ESPN
Premier sports network with extensive college football coverage
ESPN2
Offers additional games and analysis
ESPNU
Focuses on college sports, including football
ESPN+
Exclusive streaming service for many college football games
FOX
Broadcasts key games and marquee matchups
FS1
Offers additional coverage and analysis
FS2
Provides supplementary games and content
Longhorn Network
Regional channel covering University of Texas Longhorns games
NBC
Airs Notre Dame home games and other select matchups
NFL Network
Occasionally broadcasts college football games
Pac-12 Network
Focuses on Pac-12 Conference games
Peacock
Exclusive streaming platform with college football content
SEC Network
Dedicated to Southeastern Conference (SEC) games
The CW
May broadcast some games, depending on regional affiliations
Paramount+ with SHOWTIME
Streams all games aired on CBS
CC Network Extra, ESPN3, and SEC Network+
Stream select games via ESPN.com or the ESPN app with TV provider credentials
Where to Watch College Football Conferences
Conference
Channels
ACC
ABC, ACC Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, and ACC Network Extra
Big 12
ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, FOX, FS1, and Big 12 Now on ESPN+
Big Ten
ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, FOX, FS1, and Big Ten Network
Pac-12
ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, FOX, FS1, and Pac-12 Network
SEC
ABC, CBS, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, and SEC Network+
American Athletic
ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and American Digital Network
Independent (Notre Dame)
NBC (Notre Dame home games) and Peacock (exclusive streaming)
College Football Events Schedule
Event
Week
Date
Channel
Regular Season Kickoff
0
August 24, 2024
ESPN
Conference Championship Games
14
December 7-8, 2024
Varies by conference
College Football Bowl Games
18
December 31, 2024 - January 1, 2025
Fiesta Bowl (ESPN), Peach Bowl (ESPN), Rose Bowl (ESPN), Sugar Bowl (ESPN)
College Football National Championship
19
January 7, 2025
ESPN
You can check out FBSchedules.com and ESPN's College Football Schedule for matchup details and specific game dates.
How We Reviewed the Top College Football Streaming Services
Our team, led by TV critic Sarah Osman, brings over a decade of experience in film and pop culture to the table. Together, our experts subscribe to various platforms, explore their features, and evaluate their performances.
We base our reviews on the following criteria:
- Content library: Our team assesses the variety of college football content available, like exclusive games, live broadcasts, and on-demand replays.
- Streaming quality: We evaluate the services' performance during peak hours for high-definition streaming without buffering or lag.
- Device compatibility: Our tech experts make sure that services work across various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
- Pricing and plans: We compare subscription costs, free trials, and add-ons.
- User interface: Our team checks the interfaces for navigation and ease of use.
- Customer support: We test support teams' response times to make sure they can address issues promptly.
- Geographic availability: We consider regional restrictions and blackout policies.
- Features: We analyze features like DVR functionality, simultaneous streams, and personalized recommendations for added value.
Get in the Game: Streaming College Football
Streaming services offer a comprehensive and cost-effective way to enjoy college football without cable constraints. From Hulu + Live TV's user-friendly interface and team selection feature to fuboTV's innovative FanView and Family Share, there's something to suit every sports fan's needs.
All you need to do is choose a streaming service that can immerse you in the excitement of these games. The right option will give you flexibility, personalized viewing, and a broad content selection. Start comparing the multitude of options out there so you don't miss a moment of the next college football season.
» Need more options? Check out our best sports streaming services.
FAQs
Are there college football streaming apps?
Yes, you can watch college football on various streaming apps from services like Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV, Sling TV, and ESPN+.
Is college football available to stream?
Yes, you can stream college football through services like DIRECTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and ESPN+.
Where can I watch college football for free?
You can watch college football games for free using an HDTV antenna for local channels. Some streaming services also offer free trials, including DIRECTV Stream and fuboTV.
Sarah Osman-Mikesell has written about film and pop culture for over a decade. She holds a BA in creative writing and is pursuing her master’s degree in the same field. Aside from her work at Top10.com, Sarah’s writing has been featured in SheKnows, The Huffington Post, Success Magazine, and more.
