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Are you wondering what time do Monday Night Football games start? Get ready for the exciting kickoff times that dominate your Monday evenings across the United States. Monday Night Football (MNF) is a cherished tradition, bringing thrilling NFL action directly to your screens. Understanding the schedule, especially potential doubleheader variations, ensures you never miss a moment. This article breaks down the typical start times, clarifies where you can catch all the action, and covers special considerations for the 2026 season. From the usual East Coast kickoffs to West Coast adjustments, we provide all the essential details for fans nationwide. Stay informed and prepare for gridiron glory every Monday night with confidence. Discover how to easily navigate the weekly NFL schedule and ensure you are tuned in for every play.

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What time does Monday Night Football usually start in 2026?

Monday Night Football games typically start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time for the main event throughout the 2026 NFL season. This consistent kickoff time helps fans across the United States plan their evenings to enjoy the prime-time matchups. Always check your local broadcast schedules for any specific regional variations or pre-game coverage details.

Are there always two Monday Night Football games?

No, there are not always two Monday Night Football games. Doubleheaders are special occurrences, usually scheduled early in the NFL season. For most weeks, only one game is broadcast at the standard 8:15 PM ET kickoff. These extra games provide more exciting football for fans during select weeks.

Where can I watch Monday Night Football if I do not have cable?

If you do not have cable, you can watch Monday Night Football through streaming services. ESPN+ is a primary platform for live MNF games. Additionally, many live TV streaming services like Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV include ESPN in their packages, offering robust viewing options for fans.

What channel broadcasts Monday Night Football?

Monday Night Football is primarily broadcast on ESPN. Some games, especially during early season doubleheaders or significant matchups, may also be simulcast on ABC. For streaming, ESPN+ is the main digital destination. Always confirm the specific network for each week's game to ensure you tune into the correct channel.

Does Monday Night Football have a pre-game show?

Yes, Monday Night Football features a comprehensive pre-game show called Monday Night Countdown. This show typically begins at 6:00 PM Eastern Time on ESPN, offering in-depth analysis, injury reports, and expert predictions. It helps fans get fully prepared and informed before the main game kicks off each week.

What time do Monday Night Football games start for West Coast viewers?

For West Coast viewers, Monday Night Football games typically start at 5:15 PM Pacific Time for single games. If a doubleheader occurs, the early game would begin around 4:00 PM PT, followed by the regular 5:15 PM PT kickoff. These times ensure a convenient prime-time viewing experience.

When those Monday blues hit, there is nothing quite like anticipating the electrifying kickoff of Monday Night Football. Across the United States, fans eagerly ask: what time do Monday Night Football games start? This iconic NFL showcase lights up our evenings, bringing must-watch matchups and unforgettable moments. Knowing the precise start times for these thrilling contests is essential for every dedicated follower of the game.

Understanding what time do Monday Night Football games start often means planning your entire evening. The main event typically begins at a consistent time, making it easy to schedule your week around the action. However, the NFL season occasionally presents exciting variations, like doubleheaders, which bring even more football. These special weeks have adjusted schedules, offering earlier kickoffs for avid fans.

Understanding Monday Night Football Start Times

For most of the NFL season, fans can expect a standard kickoff for what time do Monday Night Football games start. This consistent scheduling helps everyone plan their viewing parties. The usual main game takes center stage after the workday. This ensures prime-time viewing for a vast majority of the country. Expect to settle in for an evening of intense gridiron competition.

The Typical MNF Kickoff Schedule for what time do monday night football games start

Historically, the primary Monday Night Football game begins at 8:15 PM Eastern Time (ET). This time applies to the majority of the schedule. For viewers in other time zones, this translates to 7:15 PM Central, 6:15 PM Mountain, and 5:15 PM Pacific. Always double-check your local listings for any last-minute adjustments. This ensures you never miss the opening play.

Doubleheaders and Special Start Times for what time do monday night football games start

Certain weeks of the NFL season feature exciting Monday Night Football doubleheaders. These special occasions mean two games, not just one. The early game during a doubleheader often kicks off around 7:00 PM ET. The second game follows the typical 8:15 PM ET start. These doubleheaders are usually scheduled early in the season. They offer an extended evening of football entertainment for fans.

How to Watch Monday Night Football and Know What Time Do Monday Night Football Games Start

Catching Monday Night Football is easier than ever in 2026. Games are broadcast primarily on ESPN and occasionally simulcast on ABC. Streaming options include ESPN+, where subscribers can watch live. Remember, local blackouts might apply in certain areas, so always verify your viewing options. Plan your setup ahead of time to avoid missing any action.

Here is a quick overview of what time do Monday Night Football games start:

Game TypeEastern Time (ET)Central Time (CT)Mountain Time (MT)Pacific Time (PT)Primary Broadcast
Single Game8:15 PM7:15 PM6:15 PM5:15 PMESPN / ABC / ESPN+
Doubleheader (Early)7:00 PM (approx)6:00 PM (approx)5:00 PM (approx)4:00 PM (approx)ESPN / ABC / ESPN+
Doubleheader (Late)8:15 PM7:15 PM6:15 PM5:15 PMESPN / ABC / ESPN+

What Others Are Asking?

What time does Monday Night Football usually start in 2026?

Monday Night Football games typically start at 8:15 PM Eastern Time for the main event throughout the 2026 NFL season. This consistent kickoff time helps fans across the United States plan their evenings to enjoy the prime-time matchups. Always check your local broadcast schedules for any specific regional variations or pre-game coverage details.

Are there always two Monday Night Football games?

No, there are not always two Monday Night Football games. Doubleheaders are special occurrences, usually scheduled early in the NFL season. For most weeks, only one game is broadcast at the standard 8:15 PM ET kickoff. These extra games provide more exciting football for fans during select weeks.

Where can I watch Monday Night Football if I do not have cable?

If you do not have cable, you can watch Monday Night Football through streaming services. ESPN+ is a primary platform for live MNF games. Additionally, many live TV streaming services like Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV include ESPN in their packages, offering robust viewing options for fans.

What channel broadcasts Monday Night Football?

Monday Night Football is primarily broadcast on ESPN. Some games, especially during early season doubleheaders or significant matchups, may also be simulcast on ABC. For streaming, ESPN+ is the main digital destination. Always confirm the specific network for each week's game to ensure you tune into the correct channel.

Does Monday Night Football have a pre-game show?

Yes, Monday Night Football features a comprehensive pre-game show called Monday Night Countdown. This show typically begins at 6:00 PM Eastern Time on ESPN, offering in-depth analysis, injury reports, and expert predictions. It helps fans get fully prepared and informed before the main game kicks off each week.

FAQ about What Time Do Monday Night Football Games Start

Who broadcasts Monday Night Football?

ESPN is the primary broadcaster for Monday Night Football. Some games, particularly early in the season, are also simulcast on ABC, providing broader access. Fans can also stream live action through ESPN+ on various devices.

What is the usual start time for MNF?

The standard kickoff for a single Monday Night Football game is 8:15 PM Eastern Time. This time remains consistent for most weeks. Doubleheaders sometimes feature an earlier game around 7:00 PM ET, with the second game still kicking off at 8:15 PM ET.

Why are there sometimes two MNF games?

Doubleheaders are scheduled to offer fans more football action, typically during the first few weeks of the NFL season. These special occasions maximize viewership and excitement. It allows for showcasing multiple compelling matchups across different markets, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

How can I ensure I know the exact start time each week?

To ensure you always know the exact start time, check official NFL schedules, your local TV listings, or reliable sports news websites. ESPN's official programming guide or the ESPN app will always provide the most current kickoff information. Setting reminders can also be very helpful.

What time do Monday Night Football games start for West Coast viewers?

For West Coast viewers, what time do Monday Night Football games start at 5:15 PM Pacific Time for single games. If a doubleheader occurs, the early game would begin around 4:00 PM PT, followed by the regular 5:15 PM PT kickoff. These times ensure a convenient prime-time viewing experience.

Summary of Key Points for What Time Do Monday Night Football Games Start

In summary, Monday Night Football typically begins at 8:15 PM ET, broadcast on ESPN, ABC, and streaming on ESPN+. Doubleheaders occasionally occur with an early game around 7:00 PM ET. Always confirm local listings to catch every thrilling moment of the 2026 NFL season. Planning your week around these times guarantees you will not miss any of the action.

Monday Night Football typically kicks off at 8:15 PM ET for single games. Doubleheaders feature an early game around 7:00 PM ET and a later game at 8:15 PM ET. Games are primarily broadcast on ESPN, ABC, and stream on ESPN+. Check local listings for exact kickoff times and network availability.