Super Bowl start time and TV info: coverage start, real kickoff window, and live streaming

Super Bowl Sunday is here, and the timing questions usually boil down to three things: when the all-day coverage begins, when the game really starts after the ceremonies, and how to watch if you’re not using cable. On Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026 (ET), the game is scheduled for early evening, but the broadcast day starts much earlier.

When coverage starts on TV

National pregame programming begins in the early afternoon, with many local stations and studio shows starting even earlier. For most viewers, the easiest planning anchor is:

• Extended national pregame coverage: around 1:00 p.m. ET

• Additional shoulder programming: often begins around noon ET on the main channel and companion shows

If you only care about the game itself, you don’t need the full pregame block. If you care about player arrivals, analysis, and the on-field lead-up, tuning in sometime between noon and 1:00 p.m. ET is typically enough to catch the main segments without committing to the entire day.

When kickoff is scheduled, and when it actually happens

The official kickoff time is listed as about 6:30 p.m. ET. The “actually happens” part is that the opening kickoff is usually a few minutes later because the final stretch includes:

• team introductions

• ceremonial moments on the field

• the national anthem and other scheduled performances

• a brief commercial break before the ball is kicked

A realistic expectation for the opening kickoff is roughly 6:35–6:40 p.m. ET, even when the schedule is running normally. If you want to guarantee you don’t miss the first snap, be settled in by 6:25 p.m. ET.

A simple game-day timing guide (ET)

Here’s a practical way to plan the night without overthinking it:

Halftime shifts the most because it depends on game pace (long drives, penalties, reviews, and timeouts can all move it).

What channel it’s on and Spanish-language options

The Super Bowl is carried nationally on a major broadcast network that you can usually receive for free with an antenna in many areas. There is also Spanish-language coverage on partner channels.

If you’re setting up a watch party, it’s worth checking your local listings in advance—especially if you’re using an antenna, a hotel TV system, or a bundled live-TV app—so you’re not scrambling at 6:20 p.m. ET.

Where to stream the game live

If you’re streaming, there are three common routes:

1. The broadcaster’s own streaming service (subscription required).
   This is the most direct “no cable” option. Expect a paid plan, and make sure you can launch the live channel feed on your device before game time.

2. Authenticated streaming through the broadcaster’s apps (pay-TV login).
   If you have access to a cable/satellite login (yours or a household’s), you can often stream the live broadcast through the broadcaster’s app or site.

3. Live TV streaming bundles that carry the broadcast channel.
   These services function like cable replacements. They can work well for big events, but availability can vary by region and device—test the channel the day before.

For mobile viewing, there is also an official league-operated option that can stream live games on phones and tablets in many cases, sometimes with device restrictions.

Streaming tips so you don’t miss the start

A few practical steps prevent most game-day headaches:

• Open the stream 15–20 minutes early to confirm it’s the live channel feed, not highlights or a preview loop.

• Update apps and sign in before 6:00 p.m. ET (logins and password resets are the #1 delay).

• If you’re casting to a TV, test casting during pregame—casting often fails first when traffic spikes.

• If picture quality matters, check 4K/HDR settings on your device and TV; not every stream supports it.

Sources consulted: NFL, NBC, Associated Press, Reuters