2009 NFL Network Games

Don't Have NFL Network? Me Neither! Here's What We're Missing!

In 2007, my Green Bay Packers played the Dallas Cowboys in a match-up that rivaled the Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots for pre-game hype of the year. The game essentially decided home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

There was one problem: it was on NFL Network, which half the country didn't get. Alas, I listened to the game on the radio and missed what would basically be the debut of Aaron Rodgers in real action.

I find it a good idea to take note of what games are on NFL Network before they start. This allows you to make arrangements for watching the game or knowing what you are going to miss. Are there any games that the NFL Network has schedule for 2009 that you can't miss? Note that records are from teams going into week eight of the 2009 NFL season.

2009 NFL Network Games: Thursday, November 12: Chicago (3-3) @ San Francisco (3-3)
A match-up of mediocre teams wouldn't normally be considered must see television. When the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers is one of the greatest players to ever play defense for the Chicago Bears? That makes a difference.

Mike Singletary revisits Chicago for the first time as a head coach. In his first year as non-interim head coach, he has already made the San Francisco 49ers competitive. If the 49ers can find an offensive attack, they have a chance to compete with the Arizona Cardinals for the NFC west.

2009 NFL Network Games: Thursday, November 19: Miami (2-4) @ Carolina (2-4)
A game of two disappointing teams who were figured to be Super Bowl contenders. The loser of this game can basically forfeit their dreams of a playoff run in 2009.

2009 NFL Network Games: Thanksgiving: New York Giants (5-2) @ Denver (6-0)
What may turn out as the only competitive Thanksgiving football game of the day, and it's stuck on NFL Network! If you like defensive games, then this game should intrigue you. I'm thankful for football on Thanksgiving, just not the NFL Network.