So, you’re looking for michigan football where to watch and realizing the days of just turning on Channel 4 and calling it a day are long gone. It's a mess. Honestly, between the Big Ten’s massive new media rights deal and the constant jumping between networks, finding the Wolverines on a Saturday has become a part-time job.
I’ve been there. You’ve got the wings ready, the jersey’s on, and suddenly you’re staring at a "Sign In with Provider" screen that won't accept your password.
The reality of the 2025-2026 season is that Michigan is spread across three major broadcast networks (FOX, CBS, NBC), plus a heavy dose of cable and streaming-exclusive platforms. If you aren't prepared for the "Peacock tax" or the random FS1 kickoff, you’re going to miss the first quarter.
Michigan Football Where to Watch: The Network Breakdown
Basically, the Big Ten is in the middle of an $8 billion deal that lasts through 2030. This means the Wolverines aren't just an "ABC/ESPN" team anymore. In fact, you’ll rarely see them on ESPN these days unless it’s a specific non-conference road game or a bowl scenario.
The Big Three (Over-the-Air)
Most of the "big" games—the ones that make your heart rate spike—live on the major networks. You can actually get these for free if you use an old-school HD antenna. No, really.
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- FOX: This is the home of "Big Noon Kickoff." If Michigan is playing a rivalry game or a high-stakes conference match at 12:00 PM ET, it’s almost certainly here. This includes the massive Ohio State game, which FOX essentially owns now.
- CBS: Since the SEC moved to ESPN, CBS has gone all-in on the Big Ten. They usually take the 3:30 PM ET slot. If the Wolverines are playing a mid-afternoon game against a team like Nebraska or Iowa, check here first.
- NBC: They’ve branded their slot as "Big Ten Saturday Night." It’s flashy, it’s primetime, and it usually features the most atmospheric games under the lights at the Big House.
The Streaming and Cable "Gotchas"
This is where it gets annoying. You can’t just rely on an antenna anymore.
Peacock is mandatory. I know, another subscription. But NBC’s deal includes exclusive games that only air on Peacock. They also simulcast the NBC games there, but there will be at least one or two games a year where Peacock is the only way to watch. For example, during the 2025 season, matchups like the New Mexico opener and the road trip to USC were locked behind that Peacock wall.
Then there is the Big Ten Network (BTN). This is still the primary home for those "smaller" games—think early-season non-conference matchups or games against lower-tier conference opponents. If you don't have a cable package or a live TV streamer that includes BTN, you’re going to be blacked out for about 25% of the season.
How to Watch Michigan Without a Cable Box
If you’ve cut the cord, you’re actually in a decent spot, provided you pick the right service. Not all "Live TV" streamers are created equal when it comes to sports.
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YouTube TV is sort of the gold standard for most Michigan fans right now. It carries FOX, CBS, NBC, BTN, and FS1. Plus, the "Key Plays" feature is great if you’re joining the game late and want to see how we scored that first touchdown without watching the whole recorded broadcast.
Fubo is the other big contender. It’s slightly more expensive but often has better local channel coverage in some rural parts of Michigan. One thing to watch out for with Fubo is that they sometimes struggle with Turner-owned networks, though that matters less for the Big Ten than it does for March Madness.
Hulu + Live TV is a solid choice because it bundles in Disney+ and ESPN+. While Michigan doesn't play on ESPN+ often, the bundle value is hard to beat if you’re already paying for those other services.
What about the radio?
Sometimes you’re stuck in the car or just want to hear a professional who actually knows the roster. Starting in 2025, 94.7 WCSX-FM in Detroit became the new flagship station. You’ve still got Jon Jansen and Doug Karsch on the call, which is a relief. If you aren't in the Detroit area, the Varsity Network app is the easiest way to stream the radio broadcast for free on your phone.
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Real Talk on "Free" Streams
You’ll see people on social media posting links to "free" streams. Just don't. Honestly, most of those sites are 40% malware and 60% lag. You’ll be 90 seconds behind the live action, meaning your phone will buzz with a score alert before you even see the snap. If you’re desperate, look for a free trial of Fubo or YouTube TV during a big game week and just remember to cancel it.
Actionable Steps to Get Game-Ready
Don't wait until 11:55 AM on Saturday to figure this out. The apps always need updating right when you're in a hurry.
- Check the Weekly Designation: The Big Ten usually doesn't announce the specific channel and time for a game until 6 to 12 days before kickoff. Bookmark the MGoBlue official schedule page; it's the only source that is 100% accurate.
- Verify Your Peacock Login: If the game is on NBC, it’s on Peacock. If it’s exclusive to Peacock, you need the "Premium" tier. Check if your internet provider (like Xfinity) still offers a discount or free access.
- Get an Antenna for Backup: If your internet goes down during a storm, a $20 leaf antenna will still pull in FOX and CBS in high definition. It’s a lifesaver for the Ohio State game.
- Download the Varsity Network App: Even if you’re watching on TV, sometimes the national announcers are unbearable. Muting the TV and syncing up the local radio call is a pro move.
The landscape is shifting, and it feels like every year we need a new login. But as long as you have a way to access FOX, CBS, NBC, and the Big Ten Network, you’ve covered about 95% of your michigan football where to watch needs. Stay away from the sketchy links, keep the Peacock app updated, and you’re set.