The weekly broadcast schedules for National Football League games are geographically segmented, determining which games are available on free, over-the-air television in specific media markets. These delineations are visualized in cartographic form, indicating the specific NFL matchups broadcast by network affiliates in different regions during the second week of the regular season. For instance, a resident of Dallas, Texas, might see a different game on their local CBS or FOX affiliate compared to someone living in New York City.
Understanding these broadcast distributions is vital for fans seeking to watch their preferred teams or specific games. It impacts viewing choices, influencing decisions about subscribing to supplemental services for out-of-market games or patronizing establishments that carry broader broadcast packages. The mapping has evolved over the years, influenced by network broadcasting agreements, population shifts, and the increasing availability of streaming options, adding complexity to the modern viewing experience.