How Monday Night Football airs on TV and phone
On television, Monday Night Football broadcasts on ABC (including the ESPN-produced games through the 2033 agreement) and is also carried on ESPN+ as part of the same package. In the U.S., the phone experience centers on the ABC app, the ESPN app, or your cable provider’s authenticated app, depending on your subscription. Outside the United States, availability and rules differ, so checking local rights and blackout policies is important.
Watch with TV credentials on your phone
If you have a cable or satellite subscription that includes ESPN and ABC, you can stream Monday Night Football on your phone using your existing credentials. This method typically offers the most comprehensive access, including live games, pregame, and postgame coverage. Here is how it generally works:
- Download the app: Install your provider’s app (such as the ABC app or your TV provider’s app) on your iOS or Android phone.
- Sign in: Log in with your TV provider account username and password.
- Select the game: Navigate to the live game or stream on the app’s sports or live TV section.
- Enjoy: Stream in your chosen resolution, subject to your data and connection quality.
How to find your provider’s app
Search for your television provider’s official app by the provider name, then download it from the App Store or Google Play. Log in with the same credentials used on the provider’s website to unlock the live streams included in your plan.
Watch with streaming TV services on your phone
If you cut the cord or prefer a streaming TV service, several plans include ESPN and ABC. Services such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream typically carry the ABC and ESPN feeds. On your phone, install the service’s app, sign in, and select the live stream. Many services offer free trials, so you can test which option works best for your location and schedule.
Streaming service comparison
| Service | Key sports offering | Typical price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | ABC, ESPN, local channels | $72.99/mo | Multiple simultaneous streams; cloud DVR |
| Hulu + Live TV | ABC, ESPN, local channels | $76.99/mo | Ad-supported and ad-free tiers; add-ons available |
| Sling TV | Regional variations; add-ons for sports | $40–$70/mo | Flexible packages; check local ABC/ESPN availability |
Use the ESPN and ABC apps
The ABC app and ESPN app are the common pathways for authenticated viewing on iOS and Android. Both apps display live games, highlights, scores, and sometimes alternate feeds or commentary options. Because Monday Night Football rights are controlled by the league and its partners, these apps will direct you to an authenticated stream if you are on a qualifying plan. Below are typical steps and features to expect.
ABC app
- Download: Available on iOS and Android.
- Sign in: Use your TV provider credentials if your package includes ABC.
- Live access: Tap the live stream during the game to watch on your phone.
- Data settings: Choose lower resolution to reduce data use on cellular connections.
ESPN app
- Download: iOS and Android supported.
- Sign in: Enter your ESPN-partner TV provider details to unlock streams.
- Features: Access to live streams, replays, and curated highlights.
- Casting: Use supported devices to cast from phone to TV if desired.
App and service compatibility
The right app or service depends on how you currently watch TV and your location. In some U.S. regions, local and blacked games may appear differently depending on your home market. Outside the U.S., broadcasters and online rights can vary significantly. Confirm local rules and provider availability before relying on a specific method on your phone.
Costs and requirements summary
Expect to maintain an active TV or streaming subscription that includes ESPN and ABC to watch Monday Night Football on your phone without extra per-game fees. Data usage can be significant, so plan for Wi-Fi when possible or choose a plan with ample data. If you are shopping for service, compare channel lineups, streaming apps, and device support.
Quick reference checklist
- Confirm your plan includes ESPN and ABC.
- Download the correct app: ABC app or your provider’s app.
- Log in with your TV provider credentials on your phone.
- Check data settings and connection quality before kickoff.
- Review local and regional rules for streaming and blackouts.
