Fox-YouTube TV Dispute Could Leave NFL Fans Without Games

A major dispute between Fox Corporation and YouTube TV could black out key NFL games. Millions of subscribers may lose access to Fox channels this week. The stalemate centers on new carriage fees.

How the YouTube TV and Fox Dispute Impacts NFL Fans

Fox channels may disappear from YouTube TV soon. The current contract expires on August 27. Fox wants higher fees from Google for its content. YouTube says Fox is asking for too much money.

This timing is terrible for football fans. The NFL regular season begins on September 4. Many games are broadcast on local Fox stations. Subscribers could miss week one matchups.

Other sports are also at risk. College football games would be affected. Viewers might also miss the MLB playoffs. The blackout includes many popular channels.

Fox News and Fox Business would also be removed. FS1 and FS2 would be gone. The Big Ten Network is part of the dispute. This affects a wide range of viewers.

According to Reuters, Fox is disappointed with Google. The company says Google exploits its influence. YouTube responded on its blog. It promises to fight for a fair deal.

How to Watch NFL Games if Fox is Removed from YouTube TV

YouTube TV suggests an alternative for fans. Subscribers can use the standalone Fox app. This service is called Fox One. You can authenticate it with your YouTube TV credentials.

This workaround may help some viewers. It requires a separate app download. The experience might not be seamless. But it should provide access to live games.

YouTube TV also promises subscriber credits. A $10 credit will be issued for a prolonged blackout. This is little comfort for fans wanting live sports.

Other streaming services still carry Fox. Hulu + Live TV and FuboTV are options. These services may have different pricing. Switching providers is a last resort for many.

This type of dispute is not new. Carriage deals often expire before football season. In February, YouTube TV reached a deal with Paramount. CBS channels were briefly at risk too.

The ongoing YouTube TV Fox dispute highlights the fragility of streaming sports. Fans hope a deal is reached before the deadline. The new NFL season hangs in the balance.

Must Know

Q1: What channels will be removed from YouTube TV?
The blackout includes local Fox stations. It also affects Fox News, FS1, and FS2. The Big Ten Network is also included.

Q2: When is the deadline for the Fox YouTube TV dispute?
The deadline is August 27 at 5 PM Eastern Time. This is when the current contract expires. Channels could go dark after this time.

Q3: How can I watch NFL games without Fox on YouTube TV?
You can use the Fox One app. Log in with your YouTube TV account. Other live TV services also carry Fox channels.

Q4: Will YouTube TV offer a refund if Fox is removed?
Yes, YouTube TV promises a $10 credit. This only applies for a prolonged blackout. It is not for a short-term disruption.

Q5: Does this affect Fox Sports and NFL on Fox?
Yes, all Fox content is part of the dispute. This includes all NFL games broadcast on Fox. It also includes college football and MLB.