NFL Embraces Streaming with Playoff Game on Peacock – Billings Gazette Rewritten: NFL Embraces Streaming by Broadcasting Playoff Game on Peacock
The AFC wild card game between Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa and Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes is not only about the quarterback matchup but also about the game being exclusively streamed on Peacock, a first for an important NFL game. The game will be available on Peacock after NBCUniversal secured the rights in May. While NBC affiliates in Kansas City and Miami will broadcast the game, other viewers will need a Peacock subscription, starting at $5.99 per month, to watch it.
Critics have expressed disappointment in the NFL’s decision to place a playoff game behind a paywall for the first time. NBCUniversal reportedly paid $110 million for the rights to the game, sparking discussions about the financial aspects of such deals. Commentator Chris Russo criticized the move, calling it a money grab by the NFL.
Under the NFL’s broadcast contract, each of its four partners—NBC, CBS, Fox, and ESPN/ABC—receives at least one wild-card game. The league’s embrace of streaming has been evident, with Amazon Prime Video exclusively airing "Thursday Night Football" last season and ESPN streaming an international game annually on ESPN+.
NBC Sports president Rick Cordella emphasized the importance of broadcasting games on digital platforms to reach a wider audience, especially younger fans. The NFL aims to be where its fans are, acknowledging the shift towards digital viewing habits.
Peacock’s first exclusive regular-season game featuring the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Chargers had already taken place in December. All playoff games will be accessible on mobile devices through the NFL+ package, providing more options for viewers to watch the games.
As streaming becomes increasingly popular, networks like NBC are adapting to meet viewer demands. The success of streaming platforms in attracting viewers and retaining them with additional content beyond specific games is a key consideration for network executives.
NBC’s lineup for the first weekend of the postseason includes multiple games, showcasing the network’s commitment to providing extensive coverage. The NFL’s partnership with various broadcasters and streaming services reflects the league’s efforts to cater to diverse viewing preferences.
The NFL’s move towards streaming platforms has seen positive results, with increased viewership and engagement. The league continues to evaluate the success of these partnerships and remains open to adapting to changing media landscapes to enhance the fan experience.
