- October
13
2025 - 5
Fans itching to catch the Sunday Night Football showdown between the Detroit Lions and the Kansas City Chiefs have a handful of legal ways to tune in, whether they’re couch‑potatoing in Detroit or shouting in a bar in Arrowhead Stadium.
The matchup rolls out on at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, a game many are already calling a preview of a potential Super Bowl clash. Jared Goff will be under center for the Lions, while the ever‑electric Patrick Mahomes leads the Chiefs’ high‑octane offense.
Here’s the thing: the NFL’s streaming ecosystem is a maze of apps, subscriptions, and regional quirks. The good news? You don’t need a satellite dish to watch the drama unfold. Below is a step‑by‑step guide that covers every legitimate avenue, from the NFL’s own service to the Chiefs’ mobile app, plus tips on free trials and what to avoid.
Why This Game Matters
Both clubs arrived in Kansas City on an 8‑5 record, making this the first prime‑time meeting of the season. The Lions, fresh off a win against the Vikings, are looking to cement their resurgence under Goff’s arm. The Chiefs, still anchored by Mahomes’ play‑action wizardry, are intent on proving they’re still the AFC’s benchmark.
Analysts at ESPN note that the Lions’ revamped defense has limited opponents to just 13 points per game, while the Chiefs boast a league‑leading 34.2 points per contest. The clash could swing the AFC North‑South balance and set a tone for the rest of the season.
Official Streaming Options
During the regular season, the NFL designates one network for each Sunday night broadcast—this week it’s NBC. If you have a cable or satellite subscription that carries NBC, you can watch the game directly on the network’s website or through their native app.
If you’re cut off from traditional pay‑TV, the NFL’s own streaming service, NFL Game Pass, offers a “Live TV” add‑on that includes live broadcast of all Sunday Night Football games.
- Live TV on Game Pass: $34.99 per month (or $399 annually). Includes live coverage of NBC’s Sunday night slot, plus replays on demand.
- Free Trial: New users can snag a 7‑day free trial, which is enough to catch the Lions‑Chiefs game if you sign up before the Thursday prior to kickoff.
- Device Compatibility: Works on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Xbox, PlayStation, and most web browsers.
The KC Chiefs Mobile App also streams the game live for fans within the U.S., but you must verify that your location is covered under the NFL’s broadcast rights. The app will prompt you for a verification code that links back to your cable or streaming subscription.
Free‑Trial Friendly Routes
Besides Game Pass, a few streaming bundles bundle NBC at no extra cost. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Hulu + Live TV: $74.99/month, includes NBC, plus a one‑month free trial for new customers.
- YouTube TV: $72.99/month, free for the first week—plenty of time to catch the game if you start on October 5.
- FuboTV: $74.99/month, offers a 7‑day free trial and carries NBC in most markets.
The trick is to time your sign‑up so the trial period overlaps with the Oct 12 kickoff. Cancel before the trial expires to avoid the charge.
Regional Restrictions & VPN Workarounds
If you’re sitting outside the United States, NBC’s live stream is geo‑blocked. The NFL’s global partner, NFL Game Pass International, offers live streaming of all games, but the price jumps to about $24.99 per month.
Some fans resort to a VPN that routes traffic through a U.S. server, then log into a free trial of one of the services listed above. While technically feasible, remember that VPN usage may violate the terms of service of the streaming platform.
Mobile & Smart‑TV Options
For those who want the game on the big screen without a cable box, most smart TVs support the NBC app directly. Just download it from your TV’s app store, sign in with a participating cable or streaming credential, and you’re set.
On the go, the NFL Mobile app (the same backbone as Game Pass) streams the live broadcast as long as you have an active subscription. The Chiefs’ own Chiefs Live app also works on Android and iOS, but again, you need a verified TV provider.
Third‑Party Platforms & What to Avoid
Websites that claim “free streaming” without a clear legal license often host low‑quality streams riddled with ads, malware, or inaccurate commentary. As a rule of thumb, if the site isn’t partnered with the NFL, NBC, or a recognized streaming bundle, steer clear.
One name that occasionally pops up is Tico Sports. While it offers a legitimate way to watch games in certain Latin American markets, its coverage of U.S. NFL games is limited and may require a separate regional subscription.
Expert Take
Sports media analyst Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk says, “For a one‑off event like this, the easiest path is a short‑term trial of a service that already includes NBC. It saves you from a full‑season commitment and guarantees high‑quality video.”
Meanwhile, tech writer Emily Chang notes that “If you’re already a subscriber to any of the major streaming bundles, just use that. The only real reason to open a new account is if you’re chasing a free trial and the day‑of‑game price matters.”
What’s Next After the Game?
Both teams have a packed schedule after Sunday night. The Lions head to Philadelphia for a Thursday night clash on Oct 17, while the Chiefs travel to Denver for a Monday night showdown on Oct 13. Keep your streaming subscriptions handy; the NFL’s “flex” schedule often moves games to prime slots later in the season.
For the most reliable, up‑to‑date streaming info, check the official NFL website or the NBC Sports app a day before kickoff. That way you avoid any last‑minute surprise about blackout rules or service outages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch the Lions‑Chiefs game for free?
The only legal way to watch it without paying is to use a free trial from a service that carries NBC, such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or NFL Game Pass. Just be sure to cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges.
What if I’m outside the United States?
International fans can subscribe to NFL Game Pass International, which streams the game live for $24.99 a month. A VPN can also route you through a U.S. server, but that may breach the provider’s terms of service.
Do I need a cable subscription to use the KC Chiefs Mobile App?
Yes. The app requires you to verify a TV provider that carries NBC’s Sunday Night Football broadcast. If you don’t have cable, a streaming bundle like YouTube TV satisfies the requirement.
Which device gives the best picture quality for this game?
Streaming on a 4K‑compatible smart TV or a streaming device (Roku Ultra, Apple TV 4K) using the NBC or NFL Game Pass apps will deliver the clearest picture, assuming your internet speed exceeds 25 Mbps.
Are there any safety concerns with the free‑streaming websites I see on social media?
Yes. Those sites often host malware and intrusive ads. Stick to official platforms like NBC, NFL Game Pass, Hulu, YouTube TV, or the Chiefs’ own app to protect your device and personal data.
About Author
I am a seasoned journalist specializing in news coverage across the United States. I am passionate about diving into current events and providing insightful commentary on the daily happenings that shape our nation. As a writer, I thrive on uncovering stories that impact people and bring a nuanced perspective to my readers. In my daily work, I focus on ensuring that important voices and issues are given the attention they deserve. I find joy in bringing clarity and understanding to complex topics through my writing.
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