Where to Watch Monday Night Football: Vikings vs. Bears Live Stream, TV Channel and Kickoff Time

The 2025 NFL season opens with a big clash on “Monday Night Football.” The Minnesota Vikings face the Chicago Bears on Sept. 8 at Soldier Field in Chicago. Kickoff starts at 5:15 p.m. PST, which is 7:15 p.m. CST local time. Fans can catch the game live on ABC and ESPN. Streaming options are also available for those watching online.

The matchup will showcase new talent on both sides. Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy makes his prime-time debut. Chicago’s new head coach Ben Johnson begins his first season in charge. According to AP, this season of “MNF” is set to bring more entertainment with music star Saweetie as the program’s first female music curator.

How to Watch Monday Night Football on TV and Online

“Monday Night Football” will broadcast across multiple platforms. ABC and ESPN will air the game on television. ESPN Deportes will provide coverage in Spanish. For viewers on the go, streaming is available on ESPN+, NFL+, and through the ESPN app.

Fans with cable or satellite can tune in directly to ESPN or ABC. Cord-cutters can stream using services like YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, DirecTV Stream, and Fubo. All these platforms carry ESPN and ABC as part of their sports packages. Subscriptions may vary, so fans should check availability before kickoff.

This season’s schedule is packed. After the Vikings vs. Bears opener, the Buccaneers take on the Texans on Sept. 15, followed by the Chargers vs. Raiders later that night. Weekly doubleheaders and exclusive ESPN+ games will continue through December. Each week offers fans prime-time access to some of the NFL’s biggest rivalries and stars.

Why Monday Night Football Still Matters

“MNF” has been a key part of American sports since 1970. The games draw millions of viewers and remain a cultural event. For the NFL, it is a showcase for new talent and major market teams. For networks, it is a ratings driver that secures ad revenue.

This season is especially important for the Bears and Vikings. Chicago wants to start fresh under a new coach. Minnesota hopes its young quarterback can spark a playoff run. Fans nationwide will watch to see how both teams begin their year. The prime-time spotlight makes every play more meaningful.

“Monday Night Football” remains one of the biggest weekly TV events. Fans looking for where to watch Monday Night Football this week have more choices than ever, from traditional cable to top streaming apps.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What channel is Monday Night Football on?

It will air on ABC and ESPN. ESPN Deportes will show the game in Spanish.

Q2: Can I stream Monday Night Football?

Yes, you can stream it on ESPN+, NFL+, and the ESPN app. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, and Fubo also carry it.

Q3: What time does Vikings vs. Bears start?

Kickoff is 5:15 p.m. PST on Monday, Sept. 8. That is 7:15 p.m. CST in Chicago.

Q4: Where is the first game being played?

The Vikings vs. Bears game takes place at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Q5: Who are the key new names this season?

J.J. McCarthy debuts as quarterback for the Vikings. Ben Johnson starts his first season as head coach of the Bears.