NFL Moves Four Games Across Networks in Rare Double Scheduling Shift

The National Football League announced a double flex move on Monday, altering the television network for four games and the kickoff time for one. This simultaneous adjustment for two future weeks is uncommon for the league.

The changes affect matchups scheduled for Nov. 8 and Nov. 22. In Week 9, the Raiders at 49ers game shifts to Fox at 4:25 p.m. ET, previously airing on CBS at 4:05 p.m. ET. The Lions at Dolphins game also moves from CBS to Fox, retaining its 1 p.m. ET start.

These moves place three games in Fox’s 4:25 p.m. ET window, including the Packers at Patriots and Cardinals at Seahawks. The Texans at Chargers becomes the sole CBS game in that late slot, starting at 4:05 p.m. ET. The scheduling shift allows Fox to feature the 49ers and Raiders in a prime viewing window.

In Week 11, the Buccaneers at Lions game transitions from CBS to Fox at 1 p.m. ET. Simultaneously, the Dolphins at Bills game moves from Fox to CBS, keeping the 1 p.m. ET kickoff. This swap ensures both networks secure high-profile matchups.

The Bills moving to CBS is a key development, as Fox had previously aired a Bills game earlier in the season. The network likely accepted the loss to balance its schedule, having already featured Josh Allen’s team. The league uses these flex options to distribute games among broadcasters.

A decision remains on the Week 9 Sunday night game between the Buccaneers and Bears. The NFL must determine by the end of the day on Oct. 27 whether to adjust the kickoff time. Tampa Bay currently holds a 2-5 record, though it has won two of its last three games.

The Bears have only one Sunday night game on their schedule. The league may hesitate to move the matchup given the Bears’ limited prime-time opportunities and the Bucs’ recent competitive showing. The final decision on the Sunday night slot is due Tuesday.