How Amazon Prime Video Delivered NFL Games in 2018
In 2018, Amazon Prime Video entered its second year of streaming NFL games exclusive to Prime members, focusing on Thursday Night Football. This arrangement expanded access to league games beyond traditional cable packages, using Prime Video apps and devices for delivery. This overview explains what aired, who could watch, how to access streams, and key policies that shaped the 2018 experience.
2018 Amazon Prime NFL Schedule at a Glance
Amazon’s 2018 slate centered on Thursday Night Football produced by NFL Network, airing most Thursdays during the regular season. These were simulcast national games, not separate telecasts. Prime Video served as the streaming home for these broadcasts in eligible regions. No Sunday or Monday games were carried on Amazon.
Notable 2018 Matchups
| Week | Date | Matchup | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sep 13 | Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers | Season opener on Amazon |
| 11 | Nov 15 | Tennessee Titans @ Kansas City Chiefs | Late-season high interest |
| 14 | Dec 6 | Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks | Key NFC West matchup |
| 17 | Dec 27 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints | Season finale week |
Eligibility and Geography
Prime Video NFL streams were available to active Amazon Prime members in the United States. Some rural or restricted areas may have faced blackouts per NFL rules. A compatible device and a Prime membership were required; standalone NFL+ subscriptions were not sold separately for these games in 2018.
Access and Account Requirements
Steps to Watch on Amazon Prime in 2018
- Ensure an active Amazon Prime membership in good standing.
- Install the Prime Video app on supported TVs, streaming devices, or mobile apps.
- Sign in with Prime credentials before or at game time.
- Navigate to the Live tab or notifications to find the game stream.
Key Policies and Limitations
Prime Video NFL streams were subject to local broadcast rights and NFL rules. Regional blackouts could apply even for Prime members. Simultaneous streams were generally limited by the number of devices included with the Prime membership. Account sharing beyond household members could violate terms.
Related Prime Video Features in 2018
Beyond Thursday Night Football, Prime Video offered extensive on-demand libraries, original series, and add-on channels. Sports content was integrated into the broader Prime ecosystem, though live NFL remained the most prominent scheduled sports offering without additional subscription beyond Prime.
Device Compatibility and Streaming Quality
In 2018, Prime Video apps supported a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming sticks, game consoles, and mobile platforms. Stream quality varied by device and connection, typically supporting up to 1080p where bandwidth allowed. Some 4K content was available in limited regions, but NFL streams generally delivered 1080p HD.
Comparison With Other NFL Streaming Options
| Service | NFL Content 2018 | Subscription Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Thursday Night Football (simulcast) | Amazon Prime membership | Included with Prime; regional restrictions apply |
| NFL+ | Out-of-market games | Separate subscription | No live national games; available in some regions |
| CBS All Access / NBC Sports Gold | Network feeds and optional premium feeds | Service subscription | Select games; not part of Prime |
| Traditional TV | All games via local and national broadcasters | Cable or antenna | No cord-cutting required for over-the-air options |
Considerations for Cord-Cutting Sports Fans
Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football package offered an alternative for cord-cutters who wanted live NFL without traditional cable. Combining Prime Video with an over-the-air antenna or low-cost cable for other games could cover the full season. Users should verify local broadcast availability and potential additional streaming add-ons for complete coverage.
Bottom Line
Amazon Prime Video’s 2018 NFL schedule centered on Thursday Night Football delivered live national games to Prime members in the U.S., with access tied to Prime status, compatible devices, and adherence to NFL and broadcaster rules. Understanding eligibility, blackout policies, and device options helped members make the most of the service.
FAQ
Reader questions
Did Amazon Prime Video air live NFL games in 2018?
Yes, Amazon Prime Video aired live Thursday Night Football games produced by NFL Network in 2018 to Prime members in eligible areas.
Were Monday or Sunday Night Football games available on Amazon in 2018?
No. Amazon’s package in 2018 was limited to Thursday Night Football. Other network games required traditional TV or other streaming services.
Could non-Prime members watch NFL on Amazon in 2 devicePolicy18?
No. Access required an active Amazon Prime membership. There was no paid standalone NFL subscription through Prime Video for these games.
Were there regional blackouts for Amazon Prime NFL streams?
Yes. Local and regional blackout rules applied; games might be unavailable in certain areas due to NFL and broadcaster rights.
What devices supported Amazon Prime Video NFL streaming in 2018?
Supported devices included Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, iOS and Android apps, select smart TVs, and many streaming media players compatible with the Prime Video app.