The tools you need to best utilize your Apple devices during the NFL Playoffs.
Congratulations to the Denver Broncos on earning a well-deserved spot in the NFL Playoffs. This achievement reflects the team’s hard work, resilience, and commitment throughout the season. We wish them luck in the postseason, Denver Mac Repair and Broncos Country will be cheering you on every step of the way.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
How do I stream the NFL Playoffs on my Apple Device?
For the NFL Playoffs (2025–26 postseason, including Wild Card through Conference Championships and Super Bowl LIX), games will be available on a combination of traditional broadcast networks and major streaming services. Here are the primary options in the United States:
1. Major Streaming Services Carrying Playoff Games
Paramount+ – Streams games broadcast on CBS, including many Wild Card and Divisional playoff matchups. YouTube TV and other live TV bundles also include CBS feeds.
Peacock – Streams games aired on NBC, including Sunday Night Football and select playoff games; sometimes has exclusive games on Peacock only.
NFL+ – The NFL’s own streaming app lets you stream local and primetime postseason games on mobile devices.
Amazon Prime Video – Per existing deals, one Wild Card playoff game is streamed on Prime Video (with a Prime subscription) – including exclusive streaming of certain Wild Card matchups.
2. Live TV Streaming Services (carry broadcast networks) These services include the live broadcast channels that air playoff games (CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC/ESPN), allowing you to stream all playoff broadcasts that are on those networks:
Sling TV(with appropriate packages) (All of the above carry combinations of CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC/ESPN in most markets)
3. Network Apps
You can often stream through CBS Sports App, NBC Sports App, ESPN App/ABC App, FOX Sports App with authentication from a live TV or pay-TV provider.
4. Special Cases
Super Bowl LIX (Feb. 9, 2025) will stream on Tubi, a free streaming service, in addition to FOX’s broadcast coverage.
Summary You’ll need access to Paramount+ and Peacock for network-simulcast streams, Amazon Prime Video for its exclusive Wild Card stream, and/or a live TV streaming bundle (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV, etc.) to cover all playoff games across networks in the U.S. option set.
Broncos-Specific Situations
The Broncos finished atop the AFC West and hold a high seed heading into the playoffs, earning a first-round bye (which means they begin in the Divisional Round).
Specific dates, kickoff times, and networks for the Broncos’ postseason games will be announced after the NFL finalizes the playoff bracket on or shortly after January 5, 2026
I’m planning to attend an NFL Playoff game, what should I have on my iPhone?
s, and push notifications.
Ticketing App (Ticketmaster / SeatGeek / StubHub) – Your digital tickets must be downloaded in advance; screenshots are often not accepted.
Apple Wallet– Add tickets ahead of time for faster entry and offline access.
Maps (Apple Maps or Google Maps) – Traffic, parking locations, public transit, and post-game routing.
Rideshare App (Uber / Lyft) – Useful for designated pickup zones after the game.
Highly Recommended
Weather App – Playoff games often involve cold, wind, or snow; conditions can change rapidly.
Stadium App or Website Shortcut – Many stadiums publish bag policies, prohibited items, and gate changes day-of.
Mobile Banking / Apple Pay – Most NFL stadiums are cashless.
Here’s a guide to what you should have on your iPhone when attending a playoff game at Empower Field at Mile High (home of the Denver Broncos), plus tips specific to this stadium.
Essential iPhone Apps & Setup
1. Tickets & Entry
Ticketmaster / Broncos App – Ensure your mobile tickets are downloaded well before arrival.
Apple Wallet – Add your ticket here for fast, offline access at the gate.
2. Stadium Navigation
Apple Maps / Google Maps – For directions to the stadium, parking, or rideshare pickup/drop-off zones.
RTD Mobile App (if using light rail) – Transit to/from Empower Field via the light rail station (“Empower Field at Mile High” station).
3. Game & Team Info
NFL App – Live scores, in-game alerts, and league info.
Denver Broncos Official App – Stadium services, parking info, seat maps, and push notifications.
4. Connectivity & Photos
Wi-Fi Access– Empower Field is upgrading stadium Wi-Fi, which should let you stay online with less congestion than in the past.
Camera App – For photos/videos; make sure you have space and battery.
5. Payments
Apple Pay / Mobile Wallet – The stadium operates as a cashless facility, so mobile payments are essential for food, drinks, and merch.
Pre-Game & Game-Day Organization
Tickets & Documentation
Confirm your tickets are downloaded and added to Wallet with QR codes accessible even if connectivity is limited.
Screenshot your tickets as a backup.
Navigation & Timing
Download offline maps or directions if possible—cell service around stadium entry points can be congested.
Set reminders for arrival time, parking lot opening times (often several hours before kickoff), and gate time.
Parking & Transport
If driving, use navigation apps (Waze, Maps) to find your specific lot and route.
If taking public transit, have your RTD pass ready in the transit app before arrival.
Weather & Comfort
Denver weather can change quickly—check a weather app and download any offline forecasts.
Wear appropriate layers and prepare for altitude/weather changes.
On-Site Tips Specific to Empower Field
Clear Bag Policy – The stadium encourages travel light; only one clear bag (max 12″ x 6″ x 12″) or a one-gallon clear freezer bag is permitted.
Cashless Purchasing – Most places inside the venue accept card or mobile (Apple) pay only.
Connectivity – Look for “BroncosWifi” in your Wi-Fi settings to connect with network support for tickets and mobile use.
Extras to Consider Downloading
Rideshare Apps (Uber / Lyft) – Essential for post-game pickup.
SeatGeek / SpotHero – If you reserved alternative parking or tickets separately.
What can I do to my Mac, iPad or AppleTV to make sure I have optimal streaming performance during the NFL Playoffs?
To ensure optimal streaming performance for NFL Playoff games across your Mac, iPad, and Apple TV, focus on four areas: software readiness, network quality, device configuration, and service-specific optimization. The steps below reflect best practices for high-reliability live sports streaming.
1. Network & Internet Optimization (Most Important)
Connection
Use wired Ethernet for Apple TV or Mac whenever possible (far more stable than Wi-Fi).
If on Wi-Fi, connect to 5 GHz or Wi-Fi 6 (avoid 2.4 GHz).
Position your router centrally and away from interference (microwaves, thick walls).
Bandwidth
Minimum recommended:
HD: 10 Mbps sustained
4K HDR: 25–30 Mbps sustained
Pause or schedule large downloads, cloud backups, and software updates during games.
Avoid external displays if your Mac struggles with high CPU usage.
Disable screen recording software.
Network
Ethernet preferred.
If Wi-Fi, manually select the strongest access point.
5. Service-Specific Best Practices
Before Game Day
Log into every streaming service at least once.
Verify:
Subscription tier supports live sports
Location permissions are enabled
Sign out/in if an app has had prior playback issues.
During the Game
Avoid switching streams repeatedly (forces renegotiation of bitrate).
If buffering occurs:
Pause 10–15 seconds
Resume
If needed, restart the app—not the device first
6. Contingency Planning (Highly Recommended)
Have at least two streaming apps available for the same game if possible.
Keep a mobile hotspot ready as a backup connection.
Know which service carries each network:
CBS → Paramount+
NBC → Peacock
FOX → FOX Sports App / live TV service
ESPN/ABC → ESPN App
Amazon exclusive → Prime Video
What companion apps are best to have on my Mac, iPhone or iPad for the NFL Playoffs?
Here is a curated list of the best companion apps to install on your Mac, iPhone, and iPad for the NFL Playoffs. These apps will keep you organized, informed, and prepared before, during, and after each game.
1. Live Game Viewing & Network Apps
These are essential for streaming or accessing playoff broadcasts and scores.
On iPhone & iPad (and Mac where available):
NFL App Official league app for live scores, highlights, news, stats, and alerts.
Paramount+ Streams CBS playoff games (AFC network) and related content.
Peacock Streams NBC playoff games and additional NFL coverage.
Amazon Prime Video Streams select exclusive Wild Card games.
ESPN App Streams ABC/ESPN playoff games with authentication.
FOX Sports App Streams FOX playoff broadcasts with authentication.
Mac Specific Notes
Some streaming platforms (Paramount+, Peacock) offer native macOS apps or work through Safari/Chrome with reliable performance.
Safari is generally preferred for efficiency.
2. Team & League Companion Apps
These apps enhance the fan experience with tailored content.
For Broncos Fans
Denver Broncos Official App Team news, schedules, ticket management, push alerts, and fan content.
NFL+ League subscription for mobile live streaming and on-demand replays (great on iPad/iPhone).
3. Fan Community & Discussion
Stay social and plugged into fan sentiment.
Twitter (X) Real-time news, instant reactions, and official team accounts.
Less consistent than HDMI or AirPlay for live sports.
Recommended Ranking (No Apple TV)
Native TV App (best overall)
HDMI adapter from iPhone/iPad/Mac
AirPlay to TV
Mac browser → HDMI
Chromecast (if supported)
What we Recommend You Do Before Game Day
Test your chosen method at least one day early.
Confirm audio sync and resolution.
Keep an HDMI adapter as backup, even if using AirPlay.
How do I share in the NFL Playoffs with remote friends and family (Even if they are Raiders fans)?
You can stay closely connected with remote friends and family during the NFL Playoffs on your Apple devices without compromising stream quality or violating app restrictions. Below are practical, Apple-native ways to share the experience—banter included, even with Raiders fans.
1. FaceTime + Live Stream (Second-Screen Approach — Best Overall)
Recommended method
Watch the game on your TV or iPad
Use FaceTime on your iPhone or Mac for live conversation
Friday, January 10 – Monday, January 12, 2026The NFL Wild Card Weekend begins Saturday, January 10, 2026, and runs through Monday, January 12. Multiple games are scheduled across those three days, with kickoff times typically in the afternoon and evening (ET). Exact matchups and times will be officially announced once the playoff bracket is set after the regular season ends on January 4.
Divisional Round
Saturday, January 17 – Sunday, January 18, 2026Winners from the Wild Card Round advance to the Divisional Round. Games are scheduled on both January 17 and January 18, with times and locations depending on seeding.
Conference Championships
Sunday, January 25, 2026AFC Championship Game — typically mid-afternoon (ET)NFC Championship Game — typically early evening (ET)Exact times and home teams will depend on playoff outcomes.
Super Bowl LX
Sunday, February 8, 2026 — 6:30 p.m. ET Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, CaliforniaChampionship game featuring the AFC Champion vs. NFC Champion, broadcast on NBC and streaming via Peacock (plus other options).
Summary of Key Dates
Stage
Dates
Wild Card Round
Jan 10–12, 2026
Divisional Round
Jan 17–18, 2026
Conference Championships
Jan 25, 2026
Super Bowl LX
Feb 8, 2026 — 6:30 p.m. ET
⭐️⭐️ UPDATE January 6th, 2026 ⭐️⭐️
The NFL postseason includes 14 teams (7 from each conference). The top seed in each conference gets a first-round bye.
Top seeds with byes:
AFC #1: Denver Broncos
NFC #1: Seattle Seahawks
Wildcard Round Matchups (Jan 10–12, 2026):
Rams @ Panthers (NFC)
Packers @ Bears (NFC)
Bills @ Jaguars (AFC)
49ers @ Eagles (NFC)
Chargers @ Patriots (AFC)
Texans @ Steelers (AFC)
These matchups are based on final standings following Week 18 of the regular season.
6:00 PM MT: Packers @ Bears — Amazon Prime Video (exclusive streaming)
Sunday, January 11, 2026
11:00 AM MT: Bills @ Jaguars — CBS / Paramount+
2:30 PM MT: 49ers @ Eagles — FOX / FuboTV
6:00 PM MT: Chargers @ Patriots — NBC / Peacock
Monday, January 12, 2026
6:00 PM MT: Texans @ Steelers — ESPN/ABC / ESPN+
Divisional Round
Saturday & Sunday, January 17–18, 2026
Four games across both days; matchups depend on Wild Card winners. Broadcasts rotate among CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN/ABC. Streaming via corresponding services (Paramount+, Peacock, ESPN+).
