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If you’re hunting for where to watch norfolk state football vs rutgers football, you probably realized pretty quickly that finding these specific cross-conference matchups can be a total headache. It’s not like a primetime NFL game where you just flip to NBC and call it a day. This is a classic "David vs. Goliath" setup—an HBCU powerhouse from the MEAC taking on a Big Ten staple in Piscataway.
The most recent meeting happened on September 13, 2025, and honestly, it went about how the oddsmakers expected. Rutgers cruised to a 60-10 victory at SHI Stadium. But even if the score was lopsided, the demand to see how a program like Norfolk State handles a Big Ten environment is always huge. If you’re trying to catch a replay or looking ahead to the next time these two meet (like the scheduled 2028 bout), here is exactly how to find the broadcast.
The Primary Broadcast: Big Ten Network (BTN)
For the 2025 game, the Big Ten Network (BTN) held the exclusive rights. This is basically the "home base" for almost any Rutgers game that doesn't get flexed to a major network like FOX or NBC. If you have a standard cable or satellite package, you likely have BTN, but it’s often tucked away in a "Sports Tier" or higher-level package.
You’ve gotta check your local listings because the channel number changes based on whether you're using Xfinity, Spectrum, or DirecTV. For those who have ditched the cord, BTN is available on most major streaming services.
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- FuboTV: Usually the go-to for sports fans because it carries all the regional networks.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes BTN in the base plan.
- YouTube TV: Solid choice, and they have that "multiview" feature which is killer on Saturdays.
- Sling TV: You’ll specifically need the "Sling Blue" package plus the "Sports Extra" add-on to get BTN. It’s a bit of a juggle.
Can you stream it on Peacock?
This is where it gets kinda confusing. Rutgers does play several games exclusively on Peacock (like their 2025 game against Miami of Ohio). However, the Norfolk State game was a BTN production. So, while Peacock is great for some Big Ten action, it wasn't the place for this specific matchup. Don't waste your ten bucks on a subscription just for this game unless it's explicitly listed as a "Peacock Exclusive."
What About the Norfolk State Side?
Norfolk State fans are used to seeing their team on ESPN+ or ESPNU because of the MEAC's partnership with Disney’s sports giant. But when the Spartans travel to a Big Ten stadium, the "home team" rules the airwaves.
That means the MEAC broadcast deals don't apply. You won't find the Rutgers game on the MEAC Digital Network or Norfolk State’s usual streaming platforms. You have to play by Big Ten rules.
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Why the 2025 Matchup Mattered
It wasn't just another blowout. 2025 was the first season under head coach Michael Vick at Norfolk State. Yeah, that Michael Vick. The hype was through the roof. Seeing a legendary figure like Vick lead his squad into a 50,000-seat stadium in New Jersey created a lot of national intrigue. People weren't just watching for the score; they were watching to see the "Vick Effect" on the Spartans' recruiting and play-style.
Radio and Audio Options
Sometimes you’re stuck in the car or just don't want to pay for another streaming sub. You’ve still got options.
- Rutgers Sports Network: You can usually find the local call on WFAN (660 AM/101.9 FM) in the New York/New Jersey area.
- Audacy App: Rutgers streams their radio broadcasts for free here.
- SiriusXM: Big Ten games are almost always on SiriusXM. You just have to find the specific Rutgers or "Big Ten Radio" channel (often in the 190-390 range).
- Spartan Showcase: Norfolk State often provides audio through their official athletics site, nsuspartans.com, or their mobile app.
Watching for Free? (The "Free Trial" Strategy)
Honestly, if you only care about this one game, your best bet is the "Free Trial Carousel." Fubo and YouTube TV almost always offer a 7-day trial for new users. Just make sure you sign up on Saturday morning and cancel on Sunday. It’s a classic move.
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Looking Ahead to 2028 and Beyond
If you missed the 2025 game, you’re going to be waiting a while. Rutgers and Norfolk State have played five times total (2007, 2010, 2013, 2015, and 2025). The Scarlet Knights have won every single one of them. The next time they are scheduled to clash is September 2, 2028.
When that date rolls around, the landscape might have changed with the new Big Ten TV contracts, but the Big Ten Network remains the safest bet for where the game will land.
Next Steps for Fans
If you want to catch highlights or a full replay of the most recent game, your best bet is the FOX Sports App or the Big Ten Network's YouTube channel. They usually post 10-15 minute "condensed" versions of the games a few hours after the final whistle. This is perfect if you don't want to sit through four hours of commercials and halftime shows. For real-time updates on future schedules, keep an eye on the official Rutgers and Norfolk State athletics websites, as kickoff times and specific TV assignments are usually finalized only 6–12 days before the game.