The NFL preseason is officially here, and football fans are ready to witness the return of gridiron action. The New England Patriots are set to kick off their 2026 preseason campaign at home against the Indianapolis Colts for a highly anticipated Week 1 matchup. Preseason games offer the perfect opportunity to see rookie classes debut, watch depth charts shake out, and feel the electric atmosphere of football once again. Whether you are a die-hard fan tracking every roster bubble player or a casual viewer ready for fall Sundays, here is your ultimate guide to watching this thrilling AFC clash.
📅 Game Time and Location
Mark your calendars and set your alarms so you do not miss the opening kickoff. The action takes place live from Foxborough.
- Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026
- Time: 07:30 PM Eastern Time (ET) / 04:30 PM Pacific Time (PT)
- Venue: Gillette Stadium (Foxborough, Massachusetts)
Playing at Gillette Stadium gives the Patriots a distinct home-field advantage. Expect a passionate crowd to welcome the team back to the field, even for a preseason opener.
📺 TV Channel and Local Broadcast Info
Preseason broadcast rights differ significantly from regular-season national windows. This game will be broadcast primary through local regional networks.
- Local TV (New England Markets): WBZ-TV (CBS 4 in Boston) will serve as the flagship station for the Patriots Preseason Television Network.
- Local TV (Indianapolis Markets): Local affiliate stations in the Indiana region will carry the Colts’ broadcast feed.
- National TV: Check your local listings on NFL Network, as preseason games are frequently rebroadcast nationally or carried live in non-market areas.
📱 Live Streaming Options
If you do not have access to traditional cable television or live outside the local broadcast markets, you can easily stream the game on multiple devices.
1. NFL+ (Official App)
The premier way to catch this matchup on your phone, tablet, or connected TV is NFL+. This subscription service allows you to stream live local and primetime preseason games. You can download the NFL app on iOS or Android, or access it via streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire Stick.
2. Live TV Streaming Services
You can watch the local CBS broadcast using digital streaming platforms that offer local network packages. Ensure the service carries your local WBZ-CBS affiliate:
- FuboTV: Offers a free trial for new users and includes local CBS channels.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes local network access alongside a vast streaming library.
- YouTube TV: Provides comprehensive local channel coverage and excellent DVR features.
- Paramount+: The Premium tier includes a live feed of your local CBS station.
🔍 What to Watch: New England Patriots
The Patriots enter the 2026 preseason with plenty of storylines. Preseason Week 1 is less about the final score and more about evaluating young talent and establishing team identity.
- The Quarterback Rotation: While the established starters might only play one or two series, all eyes will be on the backup quarterback battle and developmental rookies. Managing the offense efficiently in the second half will decide roster spots.
- Rookie Debuts: Pay close attention to New England’s recent draft picks. Wide receivers and offensive linemen fighting for starting roles will get significant snaps to prove their worth.
- Defensive Schemes: Look for how the coaching staff experiments with defensive alignments, press coverage, and edge-rushing rotations against an unfamiliar opponent.
🐎 What to Watch: Indianapolis Colts
The visiting Colts travel to Foxborough looking to test their depth chart and build early-season chemistry under intense game conditions.
- Offensive Rhythm: The Colts want to establish a fast-paced, physical offense. Watch how the backup offensive line handles the Patriots’ notorious defensive front.
- Secondary Battles: Indianapolis has several young defensive backs competing for positions in the secondary. Facing New England’s passing attack will provide a great baseline for coaches to grade film.
- Special Teams Impact: Preseason Week 1 is often decided by special teams. Kick returners and gunners will be fighting for their NFL careers during every fourth-down situation.
💡 Quick Tips for Game Day
To maximize your viewing experience, keep these quick tips in mind before kickoff:
- Check Local Guides: Confirm your local CBS affiliate scheduling, as regional programming can vary.
- Test Your Streams: Log into your NFL+ or streaming account 15 minutes early to avoid password issues or app updates.
- Monitor Roster Cuts: Keep a digital copy of both team rosters handy. Jersey numbers change frequently in the preseason, and tracking names helps you identify standout players.
Do not miss out on the return of football! Tune in this Thursday night to see the Patriots and Colts battle it out on the gridiron.