Which Sling Package is Best for College Football? A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right Sling TV package for college football can feel overwhelming with so many options. This guide cuts through the confusion, helping you find the perfect Sling package to catch all your favorite games, regardless of conference or network. We'll examine Sling Orange, Sling Blue, and the combined Orange + Blue package, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses for college football fans.
Understanding Sling TV's Channel Lineup & College Football Coverage
Before diving into specific packages, it's crucial to understand where college football games air. Many games are broadcast on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and the regional sports networks (RSNs). The availability of these channels directly impacts which Sling package best suits your needs.
Sling Orange: The ESPN Focus
Sling Orange is a popular choice for sports fans because it includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU. This makes it a strong contender for college football viewing, especially if your favorite teams primarily play on these networks. However, Sling Orange does not include regional sports networks (RSNs), which often broadcast conference-specific games. Therefore, its suitability depends on your team's broadcast schedule.
Pros:
- Includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU – home to a significant portion of college football games.
- Cost-effective compared to other options.
Cons:
- Lacks regional sports networks (RSNs), potentially missing crucial in-conference games.
- Fewer overall channels compared to Sling Blue or the combined package.
Sling Blue: A Broader, But Potentially Less College Football Focused, Option
Sling Blue offers a wider range of channels, including some that might feature college football games depending on your location and the specific game. However, it lacks the core ESPN channels found in Sling Orange, relying more on networks like FS1 and other channels that may sporadically broadcast college games. It also includes more local channels.
Pros:
- More channels overall, offering potentially broader entertainment options beyond sports.
- May include local channels providing access to regional games, depending on your location.
Cons:
- Doesn't include ESPN, ESPN2, or ESPNU, significantly reducing core college football coverage.
- May require additional add-on packages to access the specific networks showing your preferred games.
Sling Orange + Blue: The Best of Both Worlds?
The Sling Orange + Blue package combines both Orange and Blue, giving you access to the widest range of channels. This package offers the most comprehensive college football coverage, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and potentially RSNs depending on your local listings. However, it's the most expensive option.
Pros:
- Access to ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and a broader selection of channels, maximizing your chances of catching every game.
- Potential inclusion of RSNs, improving regional game coverage.
Cons:
- Most expensive option, increasing the monthly cost.
- May still not cover all college football games, as broadcast rights can vary widely.
Making the Right Choice: Consider These Factors
Before subscribing, consider these factors:
- Your Team's Conference and Network Deals: Check which networks usually broadcast your team's games.
- Your Budget: Sling Orange is the most affordable, while Orange + Blue is the most comprehensive (and expensive).
- Other Entertainment Needs: If you want more than just sports, Sling Blue or Orange + Blue might be better choices.
Ultimately, the "best" Sling package for college football depends on your specific needs and preferences. Carefully evaluate your team's broadcast schedule and weigh the pros and cons of each package to make an informed decision.
