Netflix is set to make history on Christmas Day by airing two NFL games for the first time since its launch in 1998. The streaming giant will host the 'NFL Christmas Gameday on Netflix,' featuring a two-hour pregame show starting at 11 a.m. The matchups include Pittsburgh vs. Kansas City and Baltimore vs. Houston.
With a three-year contract agreement signed in May, Netflix will stream the Christmas Day games to its 282.3 million subscribers across 190 countries. This marks the first instance of a single platform distributing NFL games globally, with coverage available in five languages.
In addition to Netflix, the games will also be broadcast on CBS affiliates in the cities of Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Houston. The NFL's policy mandates that games on cable or exclusive streaming platforms must also be aired on over-the-air stations in the competing teams' markets.
Reasons Behind NFL's Move to Streaming
The decision to stream Christmas Day games on Netflix is primarily driven by financial incentives. The NFL stands to gain $150 million from Netflix for broadcasting the two games this season. This move aligns with the league's broader strategy of expanding into the streaming realm, following previous partnerships with platforms like Amazon Prime Video and YouTube TV.
Despite Christmas falling on a Wednesday, a departure from the usual game days, the NFL opted to capitalize on the high viewership traditionally associated with the holiday. Last year's Christmas games garnered an average of 28.68 million viewers, underscoring the appeal of football on this festive occasion.
Playoff Implications and Streaming Preparedness
All four teams participating in the Christmas Day games have secured playoff berths in the AFC, with seeding still up for grabs. Kansas City aims to clinch the top seed with a victory, while Pittsburgh and Baltimore are vying for the AFC North title. Houston has already secured the fourth seed in the AFC South.
Netflix has taken measures to address potential streaming issues, following challenges experienced during the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight. The platform underwent stress testing to ensure a smooth streaming experience for the upcoming NFL games, with Nielsen set to monitor ratings post-broadcast.
Celebrity Appearances and Future Plans
The Christmas Day games will feature performances by Mariah Carey and Beyoncé, adding star power to the event. While Netflix's foray into sports broadcasting expands with the NFL games, the platform has also secured rights for WWE's 'Monday Night Raw' and the FIFA Women's World Cup in the coming years.
Looking ahead, Netflix is poised to continue its sports partnerships, with plans to broadcast additional NFL games in 2025 and '26, alongside Amazon Prime Video's scheduled night game for next year's Christmas Day.
