Excitement is building as the New Orleans Saints and San Francisco 49ers gear up for their preseason matchup. For fans eager to catch every play, the burning question is: where to watch the Saints vs 49ers game? While preseason games sometimes have varied broadcast options compared to regular season matchups, there are still several avenues to ensure you don’t miss out on the action. Let’s explore the different ways you can watch this game and dive into what to expect.
Finding Your Broadcast: Saints vs 49ers Preseason
Preseason NFL games are typically broadcast through a combination of national networks, local channels, and streaming services. To pinpoint exactly where to watch the Saints vs 49ers game, consider these options:
NFL Network
The NFL Network often carries select preseason games nationally. Checking the NFL Network’s schedule closer to game day is crucial. They frequently announce their preseason broadcast lineup in advance, and this could be a primary option for watching the Saints take on the 49ers, regardless of your location.
Local TV Affiliates
Local broadcast channels affiliated with CBS, Fox, NBC, or ABC in both the New Orleans and San Francisco markets are highly likely to air the game. Typically, the local affiliate of the team playing at home will broadcast the game. Check local listings for channels like:
- New Orleans Area: Look for local channels affiliated with major networks (e.g., WWL-TV (CBS), WVUE-DT (Fox 8), WDSU (NBC), WGNO (ABC)).
- San Francisco Area: Similar to New Orleans, check local CBS, Fox, NBC, and ABC affiliates in the Bay Area (e.g., KPIX 5 (CBS), KTVU (Fox 2), KNTV (NBC Bay Area), KGO-TV (ABC7)).
These local broadcasts are usually available over-the-air with an antenna, as well as through cable and satellite providers in their respective viewing areas.
NFL+ Streaming Service
NFL+, the NFL’s official streaming service, is another excellent option to consider. NFL+ generally offers live streams of preseason games, including out-of-market games on mobile devices and tablets. For watching on TVs, NFL+ provides live local and primetime regular season and postseason games. It’s worth checking the NFL+ schedule to confirm if the Saints vs 49ers preseason game will be available on their platform.
Other Streaming Services
Beyond NFL+, other streaming services that carry live sports might also broadcast the game. Services like FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV often include channels that broadcast NFL preseason games, such as NFL Network and local network affiliates. Review the channel lineups of these services to see if they offer the channels you need to watch the Saints vs 49ers matchup.
What to Expect on the Field
While tuning in to watch the game, keep in mind the typical preseason format. Here’s a glimpse of what might unfold, based on common preseason strategies:
Quarter 1: Starters Get a Taste
Expect to see starting quarterback Derek Carr taking the field for the Saints in the first quarter. The coaching staff might want to give Carr and the first-team offense some live game reps, especially if joint practices have been adjusted or cancelled. However, don’t anticipate extended play for key starters like Alvin Kamara or Rashid Shaheed on offense, or Demario Davis and Marshon Lattimore on defense. This quarter is about getting the starters some initial game feel without overexertion. Kicker Charlie Smyth is also expected to handle kicking duties at some point.
Quarter 2: Second String and Rising Talent
As the second quarter begins, look for backup quarterback Spencer Rattler to take over from Carr. Players like A.T. Perry and Cedric Wilson Jr. could see increased snaps at receiver, while Jordan Mims might get carries at running back. Offensive line rotations will continue, with players like Trevor Penning getting valuable playing time. Defensively, Bryan Bresee is likely to see action, and linebackers Anfernee Orji and Khaleke Hudson could feature prominently as the game progresses.
Conclusion: Tune In to Preseason Football
Finding out exactly where to watch the New Orleans Saints vs 49ers preseason game requires a little pre-game research. Check NFL Network schedules, local TV listings for both team markets, and explore streaming options like NFL+ and other sports streaming services. Preseason football offers a valuable look at team dynamics and emerging players, making it worthwhile for dedicated fans to tune in and catch the action. Enjoy the game!
