The agreement also leads to something you might not be quite so thrilled about: ads. When you stream through any of NBC's apps and websites, you'll get both national and local affiliate promos.

This isn't the same as a pure streaming option (NBC is protecting its TV cash cow), but it does illustrate the increased flexibility the NFL's partners have now that Verizon doesn't have a firm grip on mobile viewing -- you now have more choices as to how and where you watch football. That could increase the number of people who spectate online and reduce the need to huddle around a TV during the big game.