Netflix Scores a Touchdown with Record-Breaking NFL Streaming Debut
Netflix made history this holiday season, streaming its first-ever NFL games and achieving record-breaking ratings in the process. The platform’s inaugural broadcasts featured two high-stakes matchups, complete with a Beyoncé-powered halftime show that sent viewership soaring.
But while the numbers are undeniably impressive, they didn’t quite outshine the NFL’s traditional Christmas Day broadcasts from years past. Still, this marks a promising start for Netflix as it dives headfirst into the world of live sports streaming.
Beyoncé Bowl Steals the Show
The late game between the Ravens and Texans drew an average of 24.3 million viewers, narrowly edging out the earlier Chiefs vs. Steelers matchup, which brought in 24.1 million viewers, according to Nielsen. Both games now hold the distinction of being the most-streamed NFL games in history.
The true star of the evening, however, was Beyoncé. Dubbed the "Beyoncé Bowl," her electrifying halftime performance during the Ravens-Texans game pushed viewership to a peak of over 27 million viewers. The performance, featuring dazzling visuals and a medley of her greatest hits, proved once again that Queen Bey reigns supreme—even in the middle of a football game.
How Netflix’s Numbers Compare to Traditional Broadcasts
Despite the impressive streaming metrics, Netflix’s NFL debut didn’t quite top the NFL’s previous Christmas Day broadcasts on traditional TV. Last year’s games, aired on CBS, Fox, and ESPN, all surpassed this year’s streaming figures:
- Raiders vs. Chiefs on CBS: 29.2 million viewers
- Eagles vs. Giants on Fox: 29 million viewers
- 49ers vs. Ravens on ESPN: 27.1 million viewers
One possible explanation for the slight dip? The games themselves weren’t exactly nail-biters. The Ravens crushed the Texans 31-2, while the Chiefs dominated the Steelers 29-10, leaving little room for suspense to keep viewers glued to their screens.
A Three-Year Deal to Change the Game
This year’s Christmas games are the first in a three-year, $150 million partnership between Netflix and the NFL, marking the league’s most significant foray into streaming to date. With two more years to refine their playbook, both Netflix and the NFL are optimistic about capturing even larger audiences in the future.
Netflix’s move into live sports comes on the heels of a successful experiment last year, when the NFL streamed its first playoff game on Peacock. Despite initial fan skepticism, the Chiefs-Dolphins game drew massive numbers, becoming the most-streamed live event in history at the time.
Breaking Records Beyond Football
Netflix isn’t just making waves in football—it’s rewriting the rulebook for live sports streaming. Last month, the platform shattered records with a Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul boxing match, which drew an average of 108 million global viewers. According to Netflix, the fight peaked at 65 million concurrent streams, with 38 million viewers tuning in from the United States alone.
Related: Netflix Goes Live in 2025: NFL, WWE, and More Exciting Events Coming to Your Screen
What’s Next for Netflix and the NFL?
As Netflix continues its three-year partnership with the NFL, fans can expect even bigger things in the coming seasons. The platform is already teasing more blockbuster halftime shows and potentially higher-stakes matchups to keep viewers engaged.
And with live sports becoming an increasingly vital part of streaming platforms’ strategies, Netflix’s NFL debut is a clear signal to competitors: The game is on.
