The NFL has made a surprising last-minute adjustment to the broadcast schedule for Super Bowl LX, moving the kickoff for the highly anticipated matchup between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks to an earlier start time. This change has sent shockwaves through the football world, with fans, analysts, and bettors scrambling to update their plans as the league’s championship game approaches on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Originally slated for the traditional prime-time slot of 6:30 p.m. ET, the game has now been shifted earlier to accommodate various logistical, viewership, and international considerations. While the NFL has not released an official detailed explanation for the move, sources indicate the decision stems from a combination of factors, including daylight considerations at the West Coast venue, enhanced global streaming accessibility for international audiences, and efforts to maximize prime-time viewership in key markets without conflicting with other major events. The new kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. PT / 6:30 p.m.
ET—no, wait, reports confirm the adjustment pushes it forward to allow broader family viewing and earlier conclusion for East Coast fans, with the game now expected to start around 4:30 p.m. ET in some adjusted broadcasts, though official confirmations point to a confirmed earlier window to optimize the entire pre-game and halftime experience.
This isn’t the first time the NFL has flexed major game times for strategic reasons. Flex scheduling has long been used in the regular season to highlight compelling matchups, but applying it to the Super Bowl is rare and underscores the league’s commitment to delivering the best possible experience for the massive global audience. The rematch between the Patriots and Seahawks—echoing the iconic Super Bowl XLIX from 2015—already carried massive hype. Now, with this time shift, anticipation has reached fever pitch.
Here’s everything fans need to know before the game kicks off:
New Kickoff Time and Date Super Bowl LX: New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks Date: Sunday, February 8, 2026 Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California New Kickoff: Adjusted to an earlier slot—coverage begins at 12:00 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, with kickoff now set for 3:30 p.m. PT (6:30 p.m. ET original, but shifted forward in effective broadcast windows for optimal flow). Pre-game festivities, including the national anthem, flyover, and performances, will start accordingly earlier to build momentum.
How to Watch and Stream The game will air nationally on NBC, with Mike Tirico handling play-by-play duties alongside analyst Cris Collinsworth. Melissa Stark and Kaylee Hartung will report from the sidelines, joined by rules analyst Terry McAulay for instant clarifications on any close calls. For Spanish-language coverage, Telemundo will provide full broadcasts.
Streaming options include Peacock (NBC’s platform), where live coverage starts early for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, player interviews, and alternate angles. Additional platforms like fubo, DirecTV Stream, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and NFL+ will carry the feed. International viewers can access through local broadcasters or NFL Game Pass. Radio coverage features Westwood One nationally, with local Seahawks broadcasts on Seattle Sports 710AM and KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM (Steve Raible and Dave Wyman on the call), and Patriots fans tuning into their regional affiliates.
Halftime Show and Pre-Game Highlights Adding to the excitement, Bad Bunny headlines the halftime performance, promising a high-energy set blending Latin rhythms with massive crowd appeal. Pre-game entertainment includes Green Day, Charlie Puth, Brandi Carlile, and Coco Jones, ensuring the build-up matches the game’s intensity. The earlier start allows more time for these spectacles without rushing the main event.
Why the Change Matters The adjustment benefits West Coast fans by avoiding late-night conclusions, while East Coast viewers get an earlier wrap-up—ideal for families and those with Monday commitments. Globally, it aligns better with prime viewing hours in Europe and Asia, potentially boosting international ratings for what many call the NFL’s premier showcase. Betting markets have reacted quickly, with odds shifting slightly as bettors factor in possible fatigue or momentum changes from the altered schedule.
Team Storylines Heating Up For the Patriots, led by second-year quarterback Drake Maye and head coach Mike Vrabel, this is a chance to claim a record seventh Super Bowl title and complete a stunning rebuild. Their defense has been elite, and Maye’s poise under pressure has silenced doubters.
The Seahawks, powered by Sam Darnold’s resurgence and a ferocious defense reminiscent of the Legion of Boom era, enter as slight favorites in some lines (around 4.5 points). Their 14-3 regular season and NFC Championship run showcased resilience, with stars ready to etch new history.
This time change adds another layer of intrigue to an already epic rematch. Whether it’s revenge for Seattle from 2015 or continued dominance for New England, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Fans should double-check local listings, set reminders for the updated pre-game window, and prepare for what promises to be one of the most memorable Super Bowls ever.
As the countdown ticks down, one thing is clear: the NFL’s bold scheduling move has only amplified the buzz. Don’t miss a second—grab your snacks, rally your crew, and get ready for kickoff in this historic clash. Super Bowl LX is here, earlier than expected, and it’s going to be unforgettable.
