YouTube has outlined several packages and features that will encompass its first year of broadcasting NFL games for the upcoming 2023-24 season.
Along with a range of technical innovations, Google – parent company of YouTube – will offer payment plans and student subscriptions for the NFL Sunday Ticket for out-of-market-games as the platform looks to differentiate itself from other broadcasters.
It was reported last April that YouTube Sunday Ticket packages will be offered at a starting price of $249, while the NFL RedZone option – which offers additional features such as added content and highlights – will begin at $289.
This will be YouTube’s first year covering NFL games since acquiring the rights last December paying between $2bn – $2.5bn a year, taking over from the previous streaming rights holder DirecTV.
The Google-owned platform aims to provide the league and its fans with more flexible contracts and become a viable option for viewers to watch NFL games against cable TV broadcasters.
As part of YouTube’s offering, smart TV owners will be able to watch multiple games simultaneously via the multi-view feature which also includes live chats and polls to enhance fan engagement.
The video and streaming platform is also looking to incorporate ecommerce integration to NFL shops to deliver a true fan experience.
Furthermore, Google is also aiming to integrate ‘Key Plays’ to its coverage, an AI-powered software that detects significant moments during each game which will allow viewers to keep up with the action if they have tuned in whilst the game has already begun.
YouTube Shorts will also look to create short-form video clips from around the NFL and pick out key moments from NFL games so fans can digest the content in a bitesize format.
Speaking when Google acquired the rights for NFL games, YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki, remarked: “YouTube has long been a home for football fans, whether they’re streaming live games, keeping up with their home team, or watching the best plays in highlights.
“Through this expanded partnership with the NFL, viewers will now also be able to experience the game they love in compelling and innovative ways through YouTube TV or YouTube Primetime Channels.
“We’re excited to continue our work with the NFL to make YouTube a great place for sports lovers everywhere.”
