How to Watch NFL Football Games if You're Living in the Philippines 2024 • HQ Manila

Outline for Blog: How to Watch NFL Football Games if You’re Living in the Philippines

Introduction

The NFL 2024 season is here, and it’s already shaping up to be one for the ages. From Patrick Mahomes’ incredible arm leading the Kansas City Chiefs to the explosive talents of Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals, this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments. With a mix of seasoned pros and rising stars, every game is packed with thrilling plays, nail-biting finishes, and storylines that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

But this excitement isn’t just confined to the U.S. shores. American football is gaining traction worldwide, including in the Philippines. More Filipinos are catching the NFL fever, eager to follow the action from kick-off to Super Bowl LIX. However, finding ways to watch these games can be a challenge due to the limited broadcasting options locally. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, figuring out how to catch live NFL games can feel like running a two-minute drill with no timeouts. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down all the ways you can watch NFL games in the Philippines, ensuring you don’t miss a single touchdown or game-winning play.

Ready to dive into the action? Let’s explore your options!

Ways to Watch NFL Games in the Philippines

A. Streaming Services

1. DAZN

If you’re serious about following the NFL in the Philippines, DAZN is your MVP. This streaming service offers comprehensive coverage of every NFL game, including the regular season, playoffs, and the highly anticipated Super Bowl. Plus, with NFL RedZone, you can catch every touchdown from every game on Sundays, perfect for those who want to keep track of multiple games simultaneously. Additionally, DAZN provides 24/7 access to the NFL Network, where you can get the latest news, analysis, and exclusive content like the NFL Draft and Scouting Combine coverage.

Availability: DAZN is accessible in the Philippines via a straightforward subscription. Once subscribed, you have unlimited access to all NFL content, making it a one-stop solution for fans. You can enjoy both live streaming and on-demand replays, ensuring you never miss a moment, even if the games air at inconvenient times.

2. NFL Game Pass International

For die-hard NFL fans who want nothing less than full-season access, NFL Game Pass International is your go-to. This service provides every NFL game, from preseason to the Super Bowl, all live and on-demand. In addition to the games, you get access to special content like “Hard Knocks,” offering behind-the-scenes looks at teams as they prepare for the season.

Subscription: The cost of NFL Game Pass International varies depending on the package you choose, but it typically ranges from $125 to $200 for the season. This price includes all games, replays, and additional content, making it perfect for fans who don’t want to miss a single snap.
Best For: This service is ideal for those who want comprehensive coverage of the entire NFL season without being tied to a specific TV or cable provider. It’s also perfect for fans who prefer watching games on their schedule, thanks to its on-demand replay feature.

3. Other Streaming Options

Several other streaming services offer access to NFL games, although these often require a VPN to access from the Philippines due to geo-restrictions:

YouTube TV: Provides coverage of Sunday games, Sunday Night Football, and Monday Night Football. It’s a great all-in-one option for NFL fans but requires a U.S. IP address to subscribe and watch.
Hulu + Live TV: Similar to YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV offers access to NFL games on CBS, NBC, FOX, and ESPN, covering most of the big matchups throughout the season.
Peacock: Streams Sunday Night Football and select games, including some exclusive matches. It’s a more affordable option if you’re primarily interested in Sunday night games.
Amazon Prime Video: Home to Thursday Night Football, streaming 16 matchups in the 2024 season. A VPN is needed to access this from the Philippines.

Each of these services has varying costs and coverage, so choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

B. Using a VPN to Access Geo-Restricted Content

1. Why Use a VPN?

Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential for NFL fans in the Philippines who want to access geo-restricted content. Here’s why:

Benefits: A VPN allows you to bypass geographical restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear as if you’re browsing from another country. This is particularly useful for accessing streaming services like 7Plus in Australia or Peacock in the USA, which offer free or low-cost streaming of NFL games.
Security: In addition to bypassing geo-restrictions, a VPN provides a layer of security, encrypting your internet traffic. This protects you from ISP throttling, where your internet speed is deliberately slowed down, and ensures your online activities remain private, safeguarding against potential legal issues when accessing restricted content.

2. Recommended VPN Services

ExpressVPN

Features: Known for its fast and reliable servers worldwide, ExpressVPN is ideal for streaming sports in HD or UHD without buffering. It has user-friendly apps for various devices, ensuring smooth streaming on everything from laptops to smartphones to smart TVs.
Steps to Use:

Sign up for an ExpressVPN subscription.
Install the ExpressVPN app on your chosen device.
Connect to a server location that matches the broadcaster you want to watch (e.g., a U.S. server for ESPN+ or YouTube TV).
Start streaming NFL games securely and without interruptions.

Ivacy VPN

Features: Ivacy VPN is particularly recommended for connecting to Australian servers to access 7Plus, which offers free streaming of some NFL games. It’s a cost-effective solution for those looking to watch NFL games without a paid subscription.
Steps to Use:

Sign up for Ivacy VPN and install the app on your device.
Connect to an Australian server.
Open 7Plus and start streaming NFL games live for free.

Using a VPN is a game-changer for accessing a variety of NFL content without geographical restrictions, ensuring you can catch all the action, no matter where you are in the Philippines.

Watching NFL Games for Free in the Philippines

A. Free Streaming Options with a VPN

One of the best ways to watch NFL games for free in the Philippines is by using a VPN to access geo-restricted streaming services. 7Plus, an Australian streaming platform, offers free live streams of NFL games. However, this service is only available to viewers in Australia. Fortunately, with a VPN, you can easily bypass these regional restrictions and enjoy the games from the Philippines.

7Plus via VPN

Description: 7Plus is a free streaming service in Australia that broadcasts NFL games live. By using a VPN, you can connect to an Australian server, tricking the website into thinking you are accessing it from within Australia, thereby unlocking all its content.
Step-by-Step Guide:

Sign Up for a VPN: Choose a reliable VPN service like Ivacy VPN or ExpressVPN. Both have strong track records for bypassing geo-restrictions and offer servers in Australia.
Install the VPN App: Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device, whether it’s a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
Connect to an Australian Server: Open the VPN app and connect to a server located in Australia. This will give you an Australian IP address.
Visit 7Plus: Once connected to an Australian server, go to the 7Plus website or app.
Start Streaming: Enjoy watching NFL games live for free on 7Plus!

This method is perfect for fans who want to catch the action without paying for a subscription, as long as you’re comfortable with using a VPN.

B. Sports Bars and Live Viewing Venues in Manila

If you prefer a more social atmosphere to watch NFL games, Manila has several sports bars that cater to American football fans. These venues provide a lively environment, complete with multiple screens, enthusiastic crowds, and plenty of refreshments to enjoy the game-day experience.

Shooters Sports Bar & Cafe

Location: First floor of Red Planet Hotel, Makati Avenue, Makati City.
Atmosphere: Open 24/7, Shooters Sports Bar & Cafe is known for its energetic vibe, with multiple screens showing various sports, including NFL games. It’s a great place to meet fellow fans and enjoy a game in a spirited setting. With its extensive menu and constant sports coverage, it’s a favorite among both locals and expatriates looking for a place to watch live sports.

H & J Sports Bar and Restaurant

Location: Poblacion, Makati City.
Description: H & J Sports Bar and Restaurant is another popular spot in Manila for watching sports events. Known for its laid-back vibe and a strong community of expatriates, it’s the go-to venue for NFL fans in the city. The bar frequently shows major sports events on big screens, making it a fantastic place to enjoy the games while mingling with other fans.

Whether you prefer the comfort of your home with free streaming or the lively environment of a sports bar, there are plenty of options to watch NFL games in the Philippines. Just pick what suits your style and enjoy the 2024 NFL season to the fullest!

Other Viewing Options

A. Traditional TV and Satellite Services

If you’re looking for more traditional ways to catch NFL games in the Philippines, TV and satellite services might be an option. Although they may not offer the extensive coverage of streaming services, they can still provide access to some games, especially for those who prefer watching on a big screen without the need for internet streaming.

1. Sky Cable Philippines

Availability: Sky Cable is one of the primary cable providers in the Philippines, and it sometimes includes channels like ESPN and Fox Sports in its sports package. These channels occasionally broadcast NFL games, including Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football, and other key matchups. It’s a good idea to check with Sky Cable’s customer service or browse their channel lineup to see if these channels are available and what specific games they will air.
Best For: This option is ideal for viewers who already have a Sky Cable subscription or prefer the reliability of cable TV over streaming. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy watching sports on a traditional TV setup.

2. NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube TV

Details: NFL Sunday Ticket is a premium sports package that was previously exclusive to DIRECTV but has now moved to YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels. It provides comprehensive access to out-of-market NFL games, meaning you can watch games that aren’t broadcast in your local area. This service is especially useful for fans who want to follow a specific team that isn’t featured in the local broadcasts.
Cost: While NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV is a thorough option for watching most NFL games, it comes at a higher price. It requires a subscription to YouTube TV, which itself is a paid service, plus the additional cost for the Sunday Ticket package.
Access in the Philippines: Since YouTube TV is a U.S.-based service, accessing it from the Philippines requires a VPN. This setup allows you to connect to a U.S. server, bypassing the geographical restrictions and giving you access to the full array of games available through NFL Sunday Ticket.

B. Illegal Streaming and Why to Avoid It

While it might be tempting to turn to illegal streaming sites for free access to NFL games, there are significant risks associated with this approach that outweigh any potential benefits.

1. Risks of Illegal Streaming

Legal Issues: Watching games through unauthorized streams is illegal and could result in penalties, fines, or other legal consequences. These streams are not sanctioned by the NFL, and using them violates copyright laws.
Security Risks: Illegal streaming sites are often riddled with malware, intrusive ads, and pop-ups that can harm your device or compromise your personal data. Many of these sites also require users to disable ad blockers or download additional software, which can lead to security breaches or unwanted tracking.

2. Recommendation

Use Legitimate Options: To ensure a better, safer viewing experience, it’s strongly recommended to use legitimate streaming services or TV options. Services like DAZN, NFL Game Pass International, and even 7Plus via VPN provide high-quality, reliable streams without the legal and security risks. These options support the NFL and its broadcasting partners, ensuring the sustainability of the service and better quality for fans.

In summary, while there are multiple ways to watch NFL games in the Philippines, sticking to legitimate options ensures you have the best experience, free from interruptions, security risks, or legal troubles.

Conclusion

Navigating the various options for watching NFL games in the Philippines may seem daunting, but there are several great choices depending on your preference and budget. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide the best way to catch all the action:

Streaming Services: For fans who want comprehensive coverage and are willing to pay for a subscription, DAZN and NFL Game Pass International are excellent choices. They offer live streaming of every NFL game, including the playoffs and the Super Bowl, along with on-demand replays and additional content like NFL RedZone and NFL Network. These services are perfect for die-hard fans who don’t want to miss a single play.
Using a VPN for Free Streaming: If you’re looking to save some money and don’t mind a bit of a workaround, using a VPN to access geo-restricted content like 7Plus is a great option. This method allows you to stream NFL games for free, though it requires a reliable VPN service and some setup. It’s a fantastic solution for casual fans or those who are on a tight budget.
Traditional TV and Satellite Services: For those who prefer watching sports the old-fashioned way, checking with local providers like Sky Cable for channels that broadcast NFL games could be worthwhile. Additionally, NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube TV offers a comprehensive package, especially for fans of out-of-market games, but it requires a higher budget and VPN access to view from the Philippines.
Sports Bars and Live Viewing Venues: If you enjoy the camaraderie of watching games in a lively atmosphere, heading to a sports bar like Shooters Sports Bar & Cafe or H & J Sports Bar and Restaurant in Manila is a fantastic choice. These venues offer a community experience with fellow fans, multiple screens, and a great vibe, perfect for enjoying the big games live.

No matter your preference, there’s a way to enjoy the NFL season from the Philippines. Whether you’re streaming at home, catching games for free with a VPN, or joining other fans in a sports bar, you can experience every touchdown and tackle just like you’re stateside. Choose the option that best fits your needs, settle in, and get ready for an exciting NFL season!