Netflix’s First NFL Games: Ensuring Smooth Streaming for Christmas

Netflix is gearing up to give viewers an exciting treat this Christmas with two NFL games set for December 25th. The lineup includes a special performance by Mariah Carey singing “All I Want for Christmas is You” to kick off the festivities.

But despite all the holiday cheer, Netflix exec Brandon Riegg is focused on ensuring that the streaming experience goes off without a hitch. After experiencing some streaming glitches during a Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight in November, Riegg and his team have been working hard to address any potential issues.

Riegg mentioned that the spike in viewers during the fight helped the team uncover areas for improvement within the streaming system. They’re applying all the necessary fixes to ensure a smooth experience for the 282.3 million Netflix subscribers across 190 countries who will tune in to watch the NFL games.

The games will start with a two-hour pregame show at 11 a.m. EST, followed by the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. the Kansas City Chiefs, and then the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans at 4:30 p.m. EST. This marks the first time a global audience will have access to an NFL game through a single platform like Netflix.

Netflix’s move into sports streaming has been gaining momentum, with recent acquisitions like the U.S. rights for the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup. And wrestling fans can look forward to WWE’s “Monday Night Raw” premiering on Netflix in early January 2025.

The upcoming games are part of a three-year deal between Netflix and the NFL, highlighting a new direction for both parties. NFL fans can expect a festive atmosphere with the inclusion of special performances and family-friendly commentary. The aim is to make the Christmas games a memorable and enjoyable experience for viewers worldwide.