How to Watch the NFL Playoffs Without Cable
The NFL Playoffs are finally here and if you’re like me, you couldn’t be more excited! Unlike the College Football Playoffs, which often air on ESPN, you won’t need to sign up for a streaming service or a cable subscription to watch the NFL Playoffs.
With every game airing on either CBS, FOX, or NBC, all you will need is an over-the-air (OTA) antenna.
If you don’t know what an OTA antenna is, it’s basically just the modern version of the old rabbit ear antennas most of us grew up with. With an OTA antenna, you can pick up all of the major broadcast networks in your area (CBS, FOX, NBC), as well as any regional networks that are within range.
Now that you know how to watch the NFL Playoffs, here’s a look at the upcoming Divisional match-ups.
NFL Divisional Round Playoffs TV Schedule
January 13
Atlanta Falcons vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 4:35 PM, NBC
If Philadelphia had not lost their star quarterback and MVP candidate, Carson Wentz, the Eagles would be a strong favorite. Some thought that they would pick up right where they left off; believing heavily in back up QB, Nick Foles. But unfortunately, in the past few weeks, those optimists have been silenced by poor offensive play. On the flip side of the ball, you have the Atlanta Falcons who have not been entirely impressive either. There is no doubt they have the talent to be great, but if they’ll be able to pull it all together is the big question.
Tennessee Titans vs. New England Patriots, 8:15 PM, CBS
After pulling an upset against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Tennessee Titans look to feed off of that momentum this Saturday, when they play against the New England Patriots. But will it be enough? Marcus Mariota has played pretty well over the last few weeks, but he will need to be absolutely spectacular if he wants to beat reigning champs. The Patriots are still the Patriots, Brady is still Brady, and Belichick is…well you get the rest. This team is a machine, and it is really difficult to imagine the mostly dysfunctional Titans taking the Pats out. Luckily for Tennessee, players like Marcus Mariota seem to have found their groove and only seem to be getting better; which is exactly what they’ll need if they hope to topple the duo Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.
January 14
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, 1:05 PM, CBS
Although favored as the underdogs in the game, the Jacksonville Jaguars are actually pretty well positioned to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers this weekend. Jacksonville has a rock-solid defense and was able to pick off Pittsburgh at the last meeting. I for one am not a fan of Ben Roethlisberger, so nothing would please me more than to see him fall apart due to force throws and a few pick sixes. For their part, Pittsburgh will be out for blood trying to avenge their loss to Jacksonville earlier in the season; and if they limit turnovers, they’ve got a good chance.
New Orleans Saints vs. Minnesota Vikings, 4:40 PM, FOX
As the road underdog, the New Orleans Saints will hope to pull off an upset against the Minnesota Vikings. When last they met, the Vikings were able to put away the Saints; but a lot has changed since then. Minnesota is missing several players that were key to New Orleans’ defeat, and the Saints have only grown into a more balanced team. Minnesota’s defense is still one of the best around, but it just might not be enough to hold off Brees, who seemingly gets better and better as the year progresses.
Watching NFL Playoffs Without Cable
Cord-cutting NFL fans are in heaven. Not only do they not need cable to catch all the action, but they don’t even need a streaming service. With an OTA Antenna, lovers of the game can catch every match in stunning HD for absolutely free… And you thought the holiday season was over!
If you’re wondering what happens next, the teams who win these games will play another round of Playoff games in the NFL Conference Championships. Those games will take place on January 21st and will also be available over-the-air. Check back in next week for more details.
