High school football, a cherished part of American sports culture, often presents a challenge when it comes to finding live broadcasts. Unlike major college and professional games, high school football is less frequently covered by large networks, with coverage typically being more localized or streamed online. Here’s an updated guide on how to catch your favorite high school football games live in 2024, including details on how to access them through various services and the associated costs.
1. Streaming Services
NFHS Network
The NFHS Network is the primary destination for high school football coverage, with over 300,000 events streamed each year. For most regular season games, this platform is your best choice. A subscription costs approximately $11.99 per month and includes live and on-demand games. The subscription fee helps support participating schools and state associations.
ESPN
ESPN broadcasts select high school football games through events like the GEICO High School Football Kickoff and the GEICO State Champions Bowl Series. These games feature top teams and players and are available on ESPN and ESPNU. To watch ESPN and ESPNU without cable, consider these streaming options:
- DTV STREAM
Price: $79.99/month
ESPN & ESPNU available in select packages. Additional fees apply for RSNs, such as $29 per month for Bally Sports networks. - Fubo
Price: $94.99/month
ESPN & ESPNU included in select packages. RSNs and local channels may also be available, with some additional fees for specific networks. - Hulu + Live TV
Price: $76.99/month
ESPN & ESPNU included. This service generally does not include RSNs. - Philo
Price: $28/month
Does not include ESPN or ESPNU. - Sling TV
Price: $40/month
ESPN available; ESPNU may require an additional package. RSNs are not included. - YouTube TV
Price: $72.99/month
ESPN available; ESPNU may require an additional package. RSNs are not included.
2. Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)
Regional Sports Networks are crucial for covering high school football games, especially during playoffs and state championships. RSNs often require additional fees:
- Bally Sports Southwest
Additional Fee: $29/month (available through DTV STREAM, Fubo) - Bally Sports Detroit
Additional Fee: $29/month (available through DTV STREAM, Fubo) - Bally Sports SoCal
Additional Fee: $29/month (available through DTV STREAM, Fubo) - Spectrum SportsNet LA
Additional Fee: $29/month (available through DTV STREAM) - MSG Network
Additional Fee: $29/month (available through DTV STREAM, Fubo)
3. Local Channels
Local TV affiliates often broadcast high school football games, particularly during playoffs and state championships. Channels such as CBS, FOX, ABC, and NBC can be accessed through various streaming services:
- DIRECTV STREAM
Price: $79.99/month
Includes major local channels. Additional fees apply for RSNs, such as $29 per month for Bally Sports networks. - Fubo
Price: $94.99/month
Includes major local channels. Additional fees for RSNs and specific networks might apply. - YouTube TV
Price: $72.99/month
Includes major local channels. RSNs are not included.
4. Social Media and School Websites
Many high schools now stream their games on social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook. These streams are often free and are managed directly by the schools. Check your school’s official website or social media pages for links to live streams or recorded games.
5. Regional Breakdown for High School Football Streaming
To help you find high school football games in specific regions, here’s a breakdown by state:
Western States
- Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
- NFHS Network: Extensive coverage.
- Local Channels & RSNs: California games may be on Bally Sports SoCal.
Midwest States
- Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin
- NFHS Network: Wide coverage.
- Local Channels & RSNs: Michigan games might be on Bally Sports Detroit.
Southern States
- Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia
- NFHS Network: Broad coverage.
- Local Channels & RSNs: Texas games could be on Bally Sports Southwest.
Northeast States
- Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Vermont
- NFHS Network: Comprehensive coverage.
- Local Channels & RSNs: New York and New Jersey games may be covered by MSG Network.
Conclusion
With various streaming options, local channels, and regional sports networks, you can stay connected to high school football games across the country in 2024. Whether through dedicated sports platforms like NFHS Network, local TV broadcasts, or social media streams, there are numerous ways to follow your favorite high school teams. Always check with your local networks, high school, or streaming service for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Enjoy the season and never miss a moment of the high school football action!
