Why DIRECTV is still the leader in live sports

For die-hard sports fans and casual sports viewers, DIRECTV is the ultimate destination for watching sports action unfold live, whether it’s your hometown team or a national game.

More and more Americans are watching live sports. In fact, live sports dominated American screens in 2023, accounting for 96 of the top 100 most-watched TV broadcasts in the US.

With an industry-leading channel lineup, advanced features like Sports Central and unmatched access to regional sports networks, DIRECTV delivers what any sports fan needs.

In this article, we’ll outline what keeps DIRECTV ahead of the competition and how Astound’s high-speed internet and DIRECTV bundles can take your experience even further.

DIRECTV partners with 30+ regional sports networks, like FanDuel Sports Network, NBC Sports Networks and more. Offering four main packages – ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, ULTIMATE and PREMIER – each DIRECTV package is tailored for different types of sports lovers.

DIRECTV offers access to both national and regional games. From premium league coverage to hometown team matchups, DIRECTV is the platform built for fans who want it all. Here’s how:

DIRECTV provides access to over 30 regional sports networks, including Bally Sports, NBC Sports and others, ensuring fans can catch their local MLB, NBA and NHL teams live. These regional sports networks are included in most DIRECTV packages, giving you in-market coverage that streaming-only services can’t match.

DIRECTV Sports Central is a comprehensive hub designed to enhance the viewing experience for sports enthusiasts.

This feature consolidates live and upcoming games, schedules and personalized content, making it easier for fans to stay connected with their favorite teams and leagues. In Sports Central, you’ll be able to:

• View live and upcoming games across various sports, including football, basketball, baseball and hockey. You can also set and follow favorite teams.
• Record games for later viewing and set recordings for specific teams or matchups, as well as receive notifications about upcoming games.
• Access comprehensive schedules, so you can plan watching or recording in advance.

For DIRECTV customers using Gemini devices, Sports Central offers the added benefit of integrating streaming platforms like YouTube, Prime Video, ESPN+ and Peacock. Subscribers of these platforms can access games directly through Sports Central, meaning no more switching between different apps or platforms.

DIRECTV’s TV guide goes beyond the basics. It’s built with sports fans in mind. With a modern, intuitive layout, the guide allows you to easily find upcoming games, navigate between different sports categories and zero in on the action.

It’s a huge upgrade over outdated grid systems.

You can quickly record games, replay key moments or jump right back in with just a few clicks. Favorite your most-watched sports channels and create household profiles, so every viewer can have a tailored experience.

DIRECTV offers a better entertainment experience by combining live TV and your favorite streaming apps in a single interface. With the Gemini device, you don’t have to juggle remotes or constantly switch inputs, everything is accessible from one home screen.

Add top sports streaming services like ESPN+, NBA TV, NFL Network and others into your main viewing experience. Jump from watching a live NFL game on TV, to streaming exclusive content on ESPN+ without leaving the DIRECTV platform.

Maximize time spent watching, not searching. Whether you’re tuning in for live games, highlights or replays, DIRECTV makes sure it’s all in one place.

With DIRECTV’s built-in voice search, powered by Google Assistant, finding your favorite sports games has never been easier.

Using natural language commands like “Find the Lakers game” or “Show me Yankees games this weekend,” you can instantly search across live broadcasts, on demand content and even pay-per-view events. You’ll get results like air times, channel numbers and match details.

You can use this feature on the DIRECTV app on iOS and Android devices or via the Gemini voice remote, whether you’re watching on your TV or on the go. You’ll need an internet-connected device such as the DIRECTV Gemini or a smartphone, along with a Google login. Some advanced features, like filtering for only “free” content or accessing results from third-party apps like Netflix, may have limited availability.

The DIRECTV app, available on both iOS and Android, puts the full power of your sports subscription in your pocket. Whether you’re traveling, at work or simply away from your main screen, the app lets you stream live sports, watch on demand content and even access your DVR recordings—all from anywhere with a stable internet connection.

For sports fans, the app is packed with features that enhance mobile viewing. You can add your favorite teams from leagues like the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL and college sports. You won’t miss a moment with real-time notifications for upcoming games, live scores and final results. Advanced functionality like split-screen viewing lets you follow multiple games at once.

To use the app, you’ll need an active DIRECTV subscription and a reliable WiFi or mobile data connection. While the app supports most of DIRECTV’s core features, some content, like 4K streaming or select premium channels, may not be available on all devices or plans.

Yes. DIRECTV is one of the best platforms for watching live sports, offering extensive coverage through 30+ regional sports networks, national channels like ESPN and NFL Network and exclusive features like Sports Central and voice search.

Whether you’re following local teams or national matchups, DIRECTV delivers the depth, flexibility and accessibility serious fans demand.

Pairing DIRECTV with Astound’s high-speed internet in a bundle makes the experience even better, ensuring smooth, high-definition streaming and one bill. You’ll get maximum value, fewer headaches and full access to your favorite sports anytime, anywhere.

Build your DIRECTV and internet bundle now and never miss a play.