The Michigan Wolverines are one of the most storied teams in college football, drawing legions of fans every game day. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, knowing where and how to watch the Michigan game is essential. With various networks broadcasting the games and different platforms streaming them, it can get a bit confusing. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about where to watch Michigan football games, so you never miss a moment of the action.
Michigan Football
A National Phenomenon
The Michigan Wolverines, representing the University of Michigan, have built a reputation as one of the most successful and recognizable college football programs in history. With their iconic maize and blue uniforms, Michigan football games are must-watch events for millions across the nation. Whether it’s a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup or an out-of-conference battle, every Michigan game is an event in itself.
The wide appeal of Michigan football means that their games are broadcast across various channels, depending on the opponent, time of year, and significance of the game. From nationally televised games on major networks to streaming options for those on the go, there are many ways to catch the Wolverines in action.
Popular Networks That Broadcast Michigan Football
ESPN
One of the primary networks for Michigan football is ESPN. As one of the biggest sports broadcasters in the world, ESPN often secures the rights to showcase some of the Wolverines’ most critical matchups, particularly those with national significance. ESPN’s family of networks, including ESPN2 and ESPNU, are all common platforms for Michigan games, particularly during rivalry weekends or major conference showdowns.
FOX Sports
FOX Sports is another major broadcaster for Michigan football games, especially as part of its Big Ten coverage. FOX has a strong partnership with the Big Ten Conference, which means that a large number of Michigan games, particularly against Big Ten opponents, are broadcast on FOX and its sister networks, such as FS1 (FOX Sports 1). The network is also known for its “Big Noon Saturday” games, which often feature Michigan due to the team’s national appeal and competitive standing.
CBS Sports
CBS is a key player when it comes to broadcasting college football, particularly for some of the biggest matchups in the nation. While CBS is more known for its coverage of the SEC, the network occasionally broadcasts Michigan games, especially during non-conference matchups or bowl games. For fans looking for high-quality, nationwide coverage, CBS is often a go-to source.
ABC
Another network frequently showcasing Michigan games is ABC, which, like ESPN, is owned by the Walt Disney Company. Michigan’s most high-profile matchups are often reserved for ABC’s primetime slots, making it one of the top channels to keep an eye on for key games. ABC’s extensive reach makes it a fan favorite for those looking to catch the Wolverines on network television.
Big Ten Network (BTN)
The Big Ten Network (BTN) is specifically tailored to the Big Ten Conference, making it a must-have for Michigan fans. As Michigan is a Big Ten powerhouse, many of their games, particularly those within the conference, are broadcast on BTN. From midseason games to crucial rivalry matchups, BTN ensures that fans don’t miss out on any Big Ten action. BTN also provides extensive pregame and postgame coverage, offering deeper insights and analysis of Michigan’s performances.
Streaming Options for Michigan Football Games
In today’s digital age, cable isn’t the only way to watch Michigan football. Streaming has become an increasingly popular option for fans who prefer to watch games on their laptops, tablets, or smartphones. Here are some top streaming platforms that carry Michigan football games:
ESPN+
ESPN+ is the streaming service provided by ESPN, offering live sports coverage, including many college football games. While not every Michigan game will be on ESPN+, it’s a valuable option for catching certain matchups, particularly non-conference games that aren’t being broadcast on traditional TV.
FOX Sports App
For those looking to stream games aired on FOX or FS1, the FOX Sports app provides a reliable way to watch Michigan football. The app allows users to stream games live if they have a cable subscription or another valid login, ensuring that fans don’t have to miss a game even if they’re away from their TV.
CBS All Access
Now rebranded as Paramount+, CBS All Access is CBS’s streaming platform, offering live sports, including college football. Michigan fans can stream games aired on CBS through this service, making it a convenient option for cord-cutters.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is one of the best streaming services for college football fans because it offers access to ESPN, FOX, CBS, and more, meaning you’ll have most of the channels that broadcast Michigan games. With Hulu + Live TV, fans can watch games live and also access replays and highlights.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is another excellent streaming service that carries all the major networks broadcasting Michigan football. YouTube TV offers live access to ESPN, FOX, CBS, and more, along with unlimited DVR capabilities, making it a top choice for Michigan fans who want to catch every game without worrying about missing the action.
Sling TV
Sling TV is a more budget-friendly streaming service that provides access to ESPN and FOX channels. For Michigan fans looking to stream games, Sling’s packages make it a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable or other streaming platforms.
FuboTV
FuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that provides access to a wide range of live sports channels, including those that broadcast Michigan football games. With coverage from ESPN, FOX, CBS, and more, FuboTV is a great option for fans who want comprehensive access to Michigan football.
What Time Is the Michigan Game On?
Besides knowing what channel to watch, it’s important to know what time Michigan games kick off. College football game times can vary widely depending on the day, opponent, and broadcasting network. Typically, game times for Michigan football are set by the networks broadcasting the games. Here’s a breakdown of the most common game times for Michigan
Noon Games
FOX’s “Big Noon Saturday” often features Michigan games. These matchups kick off at 12:00 PM ET and are generally among the day’s biggest contests.
Afternoon Games
Games aired on ESPN, ABC, or FOX can also be scheduled for afternoon slots, often kicking off around 3:30 PM ET. These are typically major conference matchups.
Primetime Games
High-profile Michigan games, particularly rivalry games or those with significant playoff implications, are often scheduled for primetime slots, typically kicking off at 7:30 PM ET or 8:00 PM ET. These games are usually broadcast on ABC or ESPN.
Michigan’s Biggest Rivalry Games
Certain matchups draw even more national attention, meaning they’re more likely to be aired on major networks during prime viewing hours. Here are some of the Wolverines’ biggest rivalry games that typically receive extensive national coverage
The Game
Michigan vs. Ohio State
Arguably the biggest rivalry in all of college football, the annual Michigan vs. Ohio State game is always a must-watch event. This game is typically broadcast on FOX as part of the “Big Noon Saturday” package, but it may also be aired in primetime on ESPN or ABC, depending on the year.
Michigan vs. Michigan State
The in-state rivalry between the Wolverines and the Spartans is another marquee matchup that draws significant national attention. Depending on the season and conference standings, this game may be aired on FOX, ESPN, or ABC, and it’s often played in the afternoon or primetime.
Michigan vs. Notre Dame
Although Michigan and Notre Dame don’t play every season, when they do meet, it’s a game that captures national headlines. Games against Notre Dame are often aired on NBC, as Notre Dame has a broadcast deal with the network, but ABC or ESPN might also pick it up for a national primetime slot.
How to Stay Updated on Michigan Football Broadcasts
To ensure you’re always aware of what channel the Michigan game is on, it’s important to stay updated throughout the season. Networks often announce game times and broadcast details a week or two in advance, particularly for high-profile matchups. Here are a few tips to stay informed:
Check the Michigan Wolverines’ Official Website
The team’s official website regularly updates the schedule with game times and broadcasting details.
Follow Social Media
Networks like ESPN, FOX, and the Big Ten Network often post broadcast information on their social media platforms. Following the Michigan Wolverines’ official accounts is another good way to stay updated.
Download Sports Apps
Apps like ESPN, CBS Sports, or the FOX Sports app often provide game schedules, broadcast info, and live updates.
Conclusion
For Michigan football fans, knowing what channel the game is on is key to enjoying the excitement of college football. With networks like ESPN, FOX, CBS, and BTN broadcasting games and streaming options like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV, there are plenty of ways to watch the Wolverines in action. Staying updated on the schedule and broadcast details ensures that you won’t miss a moment of the game day experience.
