Finding out what channel is the Michigan game on shouldn't feel like a part-time job. Honestly, between the jump from cable to streaming and the Big Ten's massive new media rights deals, it's a mess. One day you’re on FOX, the next you’re digging through Peacock settings.
If you're looking for the Wolverines today, Sunday, January 18, 2026, the main event isn't on the hardwood—it's on the mat. Michigan Wrestling is the headliner for the televised "game" window today.
The Quick Answer: Where to Watch Michigan Today
For those in a rush: No. 13 Michigan Wrestling is taking on No. 11 Illinois. The match starts at 2:00 PM ET and you can catch it on the Big Ten Network (BTN).
If you were looking for men's basketball, you just missed them. They played Oregon yesterday (a tough 81-71 loss in Eugene). They don't take the court again until Tuesday night against Indiana. That one is a Peacock exclusive, so keep your login handy.
Sunday, Jan 18, 2026 Michigan Sports Schedule
- Wrestling: Michigan vs. Illinois at 2:00 PM ET on Big Ten Network.
- Men’s Gymnastics: Ohio State Open at 2:00 PM ET on B1G+ (Streaming).
- Women’s Tennis: Michigan Invitational starting at 10:00 AM ET (No national TV).
Why is the Michigan Game Channel Always Changing?
It’s basically all about the money. The Big Ten signed a $7 billion deal with FOX, CBS, and NBC. That sounds great for the school's bank account, but it’s a headache for us. Basically, they’ve split the games up to make sure every network gets a "window."
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For Michigan fans, this means you need a checklist.
Most "big" football and basketball games land on FOX or CBS. However, NBC has been grabbing a lot of the primetime slots lately. Then there’s the streaming "tax." Peacock has a specific number of exclusive games every year. If you don’t have it, you're out of luck for those Tuesday or Wednesday night basketball tilts.
Understanding the Big Ten Network vs. B1G+
This is where most people get tripped up.
Big Ten Network (BTN) is a standard cable channel. If you have a sports package on YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Xfinity, you’ve probably got it.
B1G+, on the other hand, is a standalone subscription app. They put the "non-televised" events there. We're talking women's gymnastics, soccer, and early-round baseball. If the game isn't on a major network and you’re asking what channel is the Michigan game on, the answer is almost always B1G+.
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How to Stream Michigan Games Without Cable
You've got options. You don't need a 2-year contract with a cable company to watch the Wolverines in 2026.
- YouTube TV / FuboTV / Hulu + Live TV: these are the big three. They all carry FOX, CBS, NBC, and BTN. It’s the closest thing to a "one-stop shop," though Fubo is often the favorite for sports fans because of its 4K options.
- Peacock: As mentioned, this is no longer optional. Michigan men's basketball has several exclusive dates here.
- Paramount+: This is how you get the CBS games if you don’t have a digital antenna or cable.
Looking Ahead: The Next Few Michigan Games
If you're planning your week, here is the upcoming TV schedule for the high-profile Michigan games.
Tuesday, Jan 20: Men’s Basketball vs. Indiana
Time: 7:00 PM ET.
Channel: Peacock.
This is the Martin Luther King Day celebration game at Crisler Center. It's a "must-watch" Big Ten matchup, but remember—it is NOT on cable.
Monday, Jan 19: Women’s Basketball vs. Vanderbilt
Time: 2:30 PM ET.
Channel: FOX.
A rare Monday afternoon showcase on big FOX. Definitely worth a watch if you’re off for the holiday.
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Friday, Jan 23: Men’s Basketball vs. Ohio State
Time: 8:00 PM ET.
Channel: FOX.
The rivalry game. This one is getting the full national treatment with the Trey Burke jersey honoring ceremony.
Pro Tips for Finding the Right Channel
Honestly, the easiest way to stay updated is to bookmark the official MGoBlue schedule page. They update the TV designations about 7 to 10 days out. Sometimes, "TBA" stays there longer than we'd like because networks wait to see which teams are winning before they decide who gets the 8:00 PM slot.
Another trick? Use a digital antenna. About 40% of Michigan's big football and basketball games are on "over-the-air" networks like FOX and CBS. It’s a one-time $30 purchase that can save you from a lot of streaming subscriptions.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check your BTN access: Ensure your cable or streaming provider includes the Big Ten Network before the 2:00 PM wrestling match today.
- Prep for Tuesday: If you haven't subscribed to Peacock yet, do it now. The Michigan vs. Indiana game on Tuesday will be exclusive to the platform.
- Set Reminders: Use a calendar app to mark "FOX" for next Friday's Ohio State game, as it's a primetime 8:00 PM tip-off.
The landscape is shifting, but as long as you know which app to open, you won't miss a minute of the action. Go Blue.