Where to Watch Monday Night Football: Panthers vs 49ers Free Streaming Guide

Football fans searching for where to watch Monday Night Football tonight can stream the Panthers vs 49ers matchup live without paying full price. The Week 12 game begins at 8:15 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Both teams enter the night fighting for position in the NFC playoff race.

The 49ers sit at 7-4, while the Panthers are 6-5 and pushing to stay alive in the postseason hunt. ESPN carries the national broadcast, and several streaming platforms are offering ways to watch the game free or nearly free. Here’s the full guide.

How to Watch Monday Night Football Tonight

Fans searching for where to watch Monday Night Football have multiple free or low-cost options. DIRECTV remains the top short-term choice because its five-day free trial includes live ESPN access. After the trial, the entry plan offers over 90 channels. This works well for viewers needing a quick solution for tonight’s game.

Sling TV offers another option with its limited-time $1 Day Pass for the Sling Orange plan. The pass grants 24-hour access to ESPN and is useful for fans who only want to stream tonight’s matchup. CNN and other national outlets continue to note rising demand for low-cost streaming among NFL viewers, especially during primetime games.

Tonight’s broadcast begins at 8:15 p.m. ET. Brock Purdy leads the 49ers, while Bryce Young looks to guide Carolina to a major road win. The NFC standings remain tight, and both teams understand the stakes. In a press briefing earlier this week, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the importance of building momentum as the season moves toward December.

ESPN2 will also air the ManningCast tonight, featuring Peyton and Eli Manning alongside guests including Luke Combs, Jerry Rice, and “SNL” Weekend Update anchors Colin Jost and Michael Che. Viewers who prefer a more conversational, off-beat broadcast often choose this alternate telecast.

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Streaming Details and Game Coverage Breakdown

For viewers who rely on streaming platforms, knowing where to watch Monday Night Football can be confusing. DIRECTV continues to offer one of the most complete channel lineups, including ESPN, ABC, FOX, NBC, and national sports coverage. Its short-term trial is often used by fans who only need access for one or two NFL games.

Sling TV’s Orange Day Pass is the lowest-cost option tonight. For a single dollar, football fans can access ESPN and stream the full Panthers vs 49ers game. The service also offers weekend and week-long passes, giving more flexibility for viewers planning ahead.

Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Fubo also carry ESPN, but none currently offer a free trial as widely available as DIRECTV. Fans looking for a “free” experience will find DIRECTV the most reliable short-term method.

The Monday Night Football schedule continues with high-profile matchups through Week 17, including Giants vs Patriots, Eagles vs Chargers, Dolphins vs Steelers, and 49ers vs Colts. The regular season finale in Week 18 remains to be announced.

How the Game Impacts the Playoff Picture

The Panthers are only one game behind the 49ers in the NFC standings. A win tonight tightens the playoff race and boosts Carolina’s position entering Week 13. A 49ers win strengthens their hold on the seventh seed and maintains their push toward a stronger postseason matchup.

This game carries postseason implications for both sides. Fans searching for where to watch Monday Night Football are likely aware that late-season primetime games often determine playoff positioning. The drama only increases as December nears.

Tonight’s broadcast is one of the most meaningful games of the week, and viewers have several ways to watch Monday Night Football live without long-term commitments. The main keyword remains central for fans trying to follow every snap.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Where can I watch Monday Night Football for free?

DIRECTV offers a five-day free trial that includes ESPN. Sling TV has a $1 Day Pass for short-term access.

Q2: What channel is Monday Night Football on?

Monday Night Football airs on ESPN at 8:15 p.m. ET. ESPN2 hosts the ManningCast alternate broadcast.

Q3: Is there a ManningCast tonight?

Yes. Peyton and Eli Manning will appear on ESPN2 with several celebrity guests.

Q4: Can I watch Monday Night Football without cable?

Yes. DIRECTV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Fubo all stream ESPN. DIRECTV offers the best free trial.

Q5: What time does Panthers vs 49ers start?

The game begins at 8:15 p.m. ET tonight from Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.