Best Sports Packages in 2026: I Tested and Ranked the Top Picks

A cable sports package is often better for fans who want access to regional sports networks (RSNs) or 4K quality without lag. Sports packages often include local broadcast networks like ABC, NBC, and CBS as well. Consult our guide on the best sports streaming services if you value flexibility and lower costs.

Xfinity Sports and News is an excellent choice for sports fans who don't want a bloated package. Instead, users receive the channels that most sports fans enjoy: ESPN, ESPN2, and FS1/2, plus you get the Golf and Tennis networks. Xfinity also throws in Peacock Premium, giving fans access to some NBA, MLB, and EPL games, as well as horse racing and the Olympics.

There are two key drawbacks with Xfinity Sports and News. First, the platform doesn’t include RSN access. Additionally, Xfinity doesn’t include the networks for the major sports leagues. Other platforms include them, but for an extra cost. Still, if you’re a college fan, Xfinity offers ACCN, BTN, and SEC networks. If you don’t need a lot of frills and just want major sports, Xfinity is worth trying, given its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Popular channels: ESPN, FS1, BTN

Spectrum TV Select Plus is a solid choice for sports fans who want a broad range of sports content without a contract. Customers receive the core networks, such as ESPN and FS1, but also the full suite of professional and college sports networks. Subscribers who want RSNs will be happy, too, as the FanDuel networks are included. Plus, Spectrum throws in 10 different streaming apps, from ESPN Unlimited to FOX One.

Unfortunately, Spectrum requires customers to bundle internet with a cable TV subscription. While there are no contracts, the rate is promotional. The standard rate is $140 per month — a 27% increase from the introductory pricing. If you don’t mind bundling and want a healthy channel package, Spectrum TV Select Plus can be worth a try.

Popular channels: SECN, NBA TV, FanDuel RSNs

Live sports aren't just about the pros — college sports matter too, and Optimum Everything TV is a quality choice for that college action. Subscribers get access to all of the major college sports networks, plus ESPNU, which isn’t a given for other base sports packages. Fans also get access to CBS Sports Network and RSNs.

Disappointingly, Optimum requires customers to bundle internet to get the package. While there is a one-year price lock, Optimum says it has the right to increase prices by up to $25 after the first year. The company only offers a base 150-hour cloud DVR, which may not offer enough recording capacity for active sports fans. Still, if you enjoy college sports, it could be worth trying; if you don’t like it, you can take advantage of the 60-day money-back guarantee.

Popular channels: ESPNU, ACCN, BTN, SECN

Cox Contour TV Ultimate is what the name indicates, carrying virtually everything a sports fan could want, for both college and professional fans alike. With Contour TV Ultimate, you get all of the major professional and college networks, plus RSNs. Cox also throws in streaming apps like ESPN Unlimited, FOX One, Paramount+ Premium, and more. You also get a broad array of premium movie networks with the plan.

However, you pay for all of those perks. Pricing is nearly $200 per month for the Ultimate plan. Additionally, at least 50 of the over 250 channels it boasts are music channels. Cox Contour TV Ultimate isn’t for everyone, but for the sports fan who wants a premium experience, it can be worthwhile to have everything in one place.

Popular channels: Tennis Channel, FS1, Golf Channel

For NFL fans, Verizon Fios’s The Most Fios TV is the top choice. Verizon includes NFL RedZone at no extra cost — most cable competitors charge extra for it. You also get all major professional and college sports networks, plus overflow channels for ACC, BTN, and SECN. If you want a package like the one I grew up with — most sports networks all in one place — this plan is for you.

Although cheaper than Cox Contour TV Ultimate, The Most Fios TV is an expensive plan. Like its Cox counterpart, many of the channels aren’t sports-related or are focused on music. Worse yet, Verizon requires a proprietary router for full functionality, which costs $399.99 or rents for $18/month. If you don’t mind the cost and are an avid NFL fan, Verizon Fios The Most Fios TV may be worth considering.

Popular channels: NFL RedZone, CBS SN, MASN RSNs

Selecting a suitable cable sports package can be difficult. Companies often like to change pricing, so due diligence is necessary. Consider the following when comparing sports packages.

Rate locks

Pricing gets expensive with many cable plans. Companies may offer a price lock, but make sure you understand when it ends before signing up.

Channel lineups

It’s important for sports fans to get the channels they want. If you don’t pick the right plan, you may miss out on action.

Clear pricing

Cable is well-known for its murky pricing practices. Inquire about hidden fees so you can understand what you’ll pay each month.

Unnecessary channels

It’s not uncommon for cable companies to load other channels into sports packages. If you don’t want the excess networks, you risk overspending.

Streaming subscriptions

I know live sports are frustrating because more games are moving to different platforms, making it harder to find everything in one place. If a cable company offers access to some streaming platforms, that may save you money and give you access to more content.

Cutting costs is essential when selecting a sports package. Pricing can easily get out of hand. Use the following tips when trying to save money.