If you're like a growing number of Americans, you're opting out of cords and opting in for more Wi-Fi.
While services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and more can quench your thirst for entertainment, they're not of much use when you're trying to watch the Lions play.
Unless you're looking for this type of thing instead.
Here are five quick tips on how to survive as a cord-cutting sports fan.
First off, figure out what suits your needs.
This will save you valuable time and money. How you primarily consume sports content is something you need to address first.
If you normally watch games while at your desk or lying in bed, a tablet device is perfectly fine.
But if you're watching with the family or having friends over, you're going to want a bigger screen.
Next, make sure you have high-speed, high-quality Internet.
Nothing is worse than the game-winning drive buffering throughout. Speaking with your Internet provider is key. They'll let you know what speeds you'll need, how many devices you can run and what apps are going to work.
That brings us to No. 3 — download every sports-related app.
Just like TV, you'll need more than one channel to get your sports. ESPN, CBS, NBC and others have apps that will show live video for certain games.
Again, check with your Internet provider. Because some of the live video apps aren't supported by certain Internet providers, which would be frustrating news if you're doing away with the traditional ways of watching sports.
No. 4 — do your research.
Believe it or not, you might not get your local games online due to blackout restrictions.
There are a lot of rules and restrictions, so know what you need to buy (or not buy) before making any sudden moves.
No. 5 — be ready to do anything.
In all likelihood, every single game you want to watch won't be available for streaming.
Sure, you can try those "sketchy" and likely illegal streaming websites, but is the risk of malware worth it?
You might need to find a local bar or check with a friend with a cable or satellite subscription for some games. Happy watching.
If you're considering losing the cable box, this handy spreadsheet will set you on the right cable-less path.
This video includes images from Getty Images and m01229 / CC BY 2.0 and clips from NBC Sports, AT&T, CenturyLink, Charter Communications, Verizon, Time Warner Cable and NFL.
