NFL Week 11 Schedule: Games, kickoffs, where to watch live and which teams have a bye week in the 2025-26 season

Can you feel it? That crisp autumn air is starting to carry the unmistakable scent of anticipation, a low hum that vibrates through every sports bar, living room, and stadium parking lot across the nation. We’re not just talking about any regular football weekend; we’re staring down the barrel of NFL Week 11 in the glorious 2025-26 season, and believe me, it’s going to be a wild one. The playoff picture is beginning to crystallize, teams are desperate, and every single snap feels like it carries the weight of a season’s hopes. For us dedicated fans, this is where the real drama unfolds, where legends are made, and where heart-stopping moments become etched into our memories. (Seriously, I still get chills thinking about that last-minute comeback in Week 10 last year!) Whether you’re a die-hard loyalist, a fantasy football wizard, or just someone who loves the thrill of elite competition, knowing the full NFL Week 11 Schedule is absolutely critical. We’re diving deep into all the games, revealing the exact kickoffs, guiding you on where to watch live, and, crucially, outlining which teams have a bye week – because that rest can make or break a late-season surge. So, grab your favorite game-day beverage, settle into your comfiest chair, and let’s get you fully prepped for a weekend that promises pure gridiron exhilaration.

This isn’t just about listing dates and times; it’s about understanding the pulse of the league, the rivalries that ignite passions, and the strategic breaks that shape destinies. Every team enters Week 11 with a story, a narrative woven from wins, losses, injuries, and incredible feats of athleticism. Some are fighting for their playoff lives, clinging to the hope of a wild card spot, while others are battling to secure home-field advantage. And then there are those precious few who get to take a deep breath, recalibrate, and heal during their bye week – a strategic pause that can often be more impactful than a win. This guide is your all-access pass to every detail you need, ensuring you won’t miss a single tackle, touchdown, or game-changing play.

The excitement is palpable, a collective buzz building up to Thursday night, stretching through a jam-packed Sunday, and culminating in what’s bound to be a thrilling Monday night showdown. I can almost hear the roar of the crowd already, the distinct thud of pads colliding, and the electrifying call of the play-by-play announcer. This article will be your comprehensive companion, helping you navigate the complex world of professional football broadcasts and ensuring you’re always in the loop.

The Heart of the Action: Unpacking the NFL Week 11 Schedule 2025-26

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. What you’ve been waiting for: a complete rundown of the NFL Week 11 Schedule for the 2025-26 season. This is your essential guide to planning your weekend, setting your fantasy lineups, and making sure you don’t accidentally miss that crucial game. We’ve compiled a detailed list of every game, its kickoff time, and the primary broadcast channel, giving you a clear picture of how the action will unfold. Remember, all times are Eastern Standard Time (EST) unless otherwise noted, so adjust your clocks accordingly, especially if you’re on the West Coast, where early games mean breakfast with football!

The sheer volume of games on Sunday is always a delightful challenge for any football enthusiast. It’s a strategic dance between multiple screens, constantly checking scores, and making snap decisions about which game gets your undivided attention. As my friend Dave, a lifelong Steelers fan, always says, “Sunday is for football, everything else is just background noise!” He’s not wrong. The week begins with a pivotal Thursday Night Football clash and culminates in a highly anticipated Monday Night Football spectacle.

Here’s a snapshot of the electrifying matchups awaiting us:

Spotlight on Key Matchups: Week 11’s Must-Watch Games

While every game holds significance, a few matchups in NFL Week 11 of the 2025-26 season jump out as potential classics. The AFC East rivalry between the New York Jets and New England Patriots, for instance, is always a physical, grind-it-out affair, regardless of records. You just know there will be fireworks. “These division games are personal,” an anonymous former Patriots player once told me. “It’s not just about the win; it’s about bragging rights for the next six months.”

Then, consider the Sunday afternoon showdown: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Buffalo Bills. This has become an instant classic rivalry in recent years, a clash of offensive titans that often comes down to the wire. The atmosphere in Orchard Park will be absolutely electric, especially if there’s any snow in the forecast, adding another layer of challenge and spectacle. Imagine the quarterbacks battling it out in freezing temperatures, a true test of grit and skill. And let’s not forget the Sunday Night Football game: San Francisco 49ers vs. Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. A historic rivalry, often played in chilly conditions, with playoff implications almost always on the line. The “Frozen Tundra” has seen countless legendary battles, and this one promises to add another chapter.

Navigating the Broadcast Landscape: Where to Watch Live in 2025-26

In today’s fragmented media landscape, knowing exactly where to watch live all these incredible NFL Week 11 games can feel like a puzzle. But fear not! The NFL has expanded its reach across multiple platforms to ensure you can catch every single moment, no matter your preference. From traditional cable to cutting-edge streaming services, there are more ways than ever to immerse yourself in the action.

Traditional TV Broadcasts

Major networks like CBS and FOX will carry the bulk of the Sunday afternoon games. Typically, CBS handles AFC matchups and FOX covers NFC matchups, but this can vary based on regional interest and flex scheduling. NBC continues to be the home of “Sunday Night Football,” providing a prime-time national spectacle. These channels are usually accessible via basic cable packages or over-the-air antennas, making them a reliable choice for many fans. The quality of the broadcast, the veteran announcers, and the pre-game shows make these a staple for the traditionalist.

Streaming Services: The Modern Way to Watch

The world of streaming has truly revolutionized how we consume sports. For NFL Week 11 in 2025-26:

• Amazon Prime Video: Your exclusive home for “Thursday Night Football.” If you’re a Prime subscriber, you’re all set. If not, a subscription is necessary to catch the weekly opener. The production quality on Prime has been steadily improving, offering a dynamic viewing experience with plenty of analytical overlays.
• ESPN: The long-standing home for “Monday Night Football.” If you have a cable subscription that includes ESPN, you can watch it there. Alternatively, streaming services like Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV include ESPN in their packages.
• NFL+: This official NFL streaming service offers live local and prime-time regular season games on mobile devices and tablets. For those on the go, it’s an invaluable tool. The premium tier also offers replays of all games, perfect for catching up on anything you missed.
• Peacock and Paramount+: These services occasionally carry exclusive games or simulcasts of games airing on NBC (Peacock) or CBS (Paramount+). Always double-check specific game details to confirm availability.
• Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV: These live TV streaming services offer comprehensive packages that include CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN, essentially replacing a traditional cable subscription for many football fans. They are a fantastic option for cord-cutters looking for an all-in-one solution.

One crucial tip: be aware of regional broadcast rules. Sometimes, certain games are blacked out in specific areas due to local broadcast agreements. It can be a little frustrating, but knowing your options and having a backup plan (like a good VPN, though always check its legality in your region and with service terms) can save your game day.

The Crucial Respite: Which Teams Have a Bye Week in 2025-26 Week 11

Ah, the bye week. For some teams, it’s a blessing; for others, a frustrating interruption to momentum. But make no mistake, it’s a strategically vital component of the grueling NFL season. It provides an opportunity for players to heal nagging injuries, for coaches to reassess strategies, and for everyone to take a mental break before the final push towards the playoffs. In NFL Week 11 of the 2025-26 season, a few teams will be enjoying this much-needed pause.

Imagine being a professional athlete, pushing your body to its absolute limits week after week. The hits, the sprints, the constant mental pressure – it all takes a toll. A bye week isn’t just a vacation; it’s a chance to hit the reset button. Players can get extra treatment for bumps and bruises, spend quality time with family, and return refreshed, both physically and mentally. Coaches, meanwhile, can dive deep into film study, refine their playbooks, and scout upcoming opponents with renewed focus.

For Week 11 of the 2025-26 season, the teams enjoying a well-deserved bye are:

• Arizona Cardinals
• Detroit Lions
• Miami Dolphins
• Washington Commanders

This means four teams will be absent from the schedule, which might feel a little odd, especially if one of them is your favorite squad. But trust me, they’ll be using this time wisely. For teams like the Cardinals or Commanders, perhaps needing to iron out some kinks, this bye comes at a perfect time for self-correction. For the Lions or Dolphins, potentially in the thick of a playoff race, it’s a chance to get key players healthy and re-energized for the crucial final stretch of the season. A well-timed bye can truly be a game-changer, impacting performance for weeks to come.

Beyond the Field: Fan Experience and Game Day Rituals

The NFL is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon, especially on Sundays. The NFL Week 11 Schedule isn’t just a list of games; it’s a roadmap for countless rituals and traditions. Think about it: the early morning rush to grab fresh coffee and donuts before the 1 PM kickoffs, the elaborate tailgates with smoky grills and enthusiastic chants, or the quiet, focused intensity of a lone fan watching every play on their big screen.

I remember one particular Week 11 a few seasons ago, I was at a friend’s house for an epic watch party. The weather outside was dreary and cold, perfect football weather for staying indoors. We had chili simmering, wings being fried, and three different games on three separate screens. The energy in the room was electric, especially when a last-second field goal decided one of the early games. That collective gasp, then the eruption of cheers – it’s moments like those that truly define the NFL experience for fans. It’s about community, shared passion, and the unpredictable drama that only live sports can deliver. Whether you’re in the stands feeling the roar of the crowd, or on your couch surrounded by friends and family, the atmosphere of Week 11 is something truly special.

The 2025-26 NFL season is delivering on all fronts, and Week 11 promises to deepen those narratives. Fans are already dissecting matchups, debating fantasy prospects, and planning their game-day menus. It’s a testament to the league’s enduring appeal that even in a future season, the excitement for a particular week’s schedule feels so tangible. “It’s the best day of the week, hands down,” my neighbor, who bleeds blue for his Giants, always proclaims about NFL Sundays. And honestly, it’s hard to argue with him.

The Road Ahead: What Week 11 Means for the Playoff Picture

As we edge closer to December, every game, every drive, and every point scored in NFL Week 11 carries immense weight for the playoff picture. For teams hovering around .500, a loss here could be devastating, potentially putting them too far behind to catch up. For division leaders, a win could solidify their hold, pushing them closer to securing a coveted home playoff game. The pressure is immense, and it’s why coaches preach the importance of “one game at a time” with such fervor.

Consider the implications of a game like the Eagles vs. Cowboys. These NFC East rivals are almost always battling for supremacy, and a Week 11 victory could give one team a critical edge in the standings, not to mention a psychological boost. The same goes for the AFC North clash between the Ravens and Bengals on Monday night. These are not just individual games; they are battles for positioning, tie-breakers, and momentum. A key injury, a spectacular individual performance, or even a questionable officiating call in Week 11 could have ripple effects that last all the way through the Super Bowl. It’s a fascinating time to be a football fan, watching these chess matches unfold on the grandest stage.

The teams on bye this week – Cardinals, Lions, Dolphins, and Commanders – will also be keenly watching the results. Their opponents in the coming weeks will have played an extra game, potentially accumulating more injuries or fatigue. A fresh, re-energized team coming off a bye can often surprise an unsuspecting opponent. It’s all part of the intricate dance of the NFL season, where every detail, from the schedule to the rest days, plays a role in determining who ultimately lifts the Lombardi Trophy.

So, as we gear up for NFL Week 11 of the 2025-26 season, remember that you’re not just watching a series of games. You’re witnessing the strategic culmination of months of preparation, the raw emotion of competition, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. It’s an unforgettable journey that unfolds right before our eyes, every single weekend.

Conclusion

There you have it – your definitive guide to the electrifying NFL Week 11 Schedule for the 2025-26 season. We’ve covered the crucial matchups, the exact kickoffs, outlined where to watch live across various platforms, and identified which teams have a bye week. This week is shaping up to be a pivotal point in the season, with every game carrying significant weight for teams vying for playoff contention or simply battling for pride. The narratives are rich, the stakes are high, and the potential for unforgettable moments is, as always, boundless.

From the thunderous clashes in division rivalries to the strategic pauses afforded by bye weeks, every element of NFL Week 11 contributes to the grand spectacle that is professional football. I sincerely hope this detailed breakdown helps you maximize your viewing experience and keeps you fully informed. So, get ready to witness some incredible athleticism, fierce competition, and perhaps a few surprises along the way. Grab your snacks, settle in, and prepare for another unforgettable weekend of gridiron action. You won’t want to miss a single second!