For a long time, the NFL was predictable.
A big-time AFC clash would be broadcast on CBS. And a major NFC showdown would be on Fox.
That's no longer always the case, and it's already off-kilter in Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season.
The Green Bay Packers host the Detroit Lions in the late afternoon window in a massive NFC North matchup to open the campaign. And it's not on Fox.
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Why is the Packers vs. Lions game on CBS and not Fox?
Starting in 2023 when new TV contracts were signed, the NFL technically eliminated the standard AFC-CBS and NFC-Fox arrangement.
They generally stick with the traditional format, writes Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio. But not always.
The NFL essentially reserves the right for flexibility on moving games around to maximize audience.
It also depends on which network gets to show both an early window and late window game in a given market in a given week. This was the CBS week to double up, and the biggest game is Lions-Packers, and so CBS gets it.
Where to watch Packers vs. Lions today: TV channel, live stream
- TV channel: CBS
- Live stream: Paramount+
This game will be shown in the vast majority of the country on CBS.
The only other late window CBS game is Texans-Rams, which is being shown in most of Texas (but not Dallas) and in the Los Angeles area.
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Packers vs. Lions start time
Date: Sunday, Sept. 7
Time: 4:25 p.m. ET, 3:25 p.m. CT
This game will be played in the major late afternoon slot that the NFL uses to feature a big showdown.
It's the defending NFC North champion Lions against the historic Packers.
Both should contend for the division title this season, so it's a huge barometer of where each team stands right away.
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