There are actually two different NFL network program channels. I have Spectrum, and I stream on the Spectrum App on my tv (I have an apple tv receiver, roku and also a smart TV. ) That eliminates paying for Spectrum's equipment. I am watching the Vikings game on the NFL Network on Spectrum via my Apple TV, and I live in Lancaster. If you have a smart TV (or Roku, Apple 4K, etc), you can download the NFL App directly. On that app, you can see what is currently running on the NFL Network. (Their alternate channel for areas where the game is blacked out, is currently showing the Rams vs Raiders game.) On the app, you will have to login through your TV provider...in essence proving you subscribe to the NFL Network. BTW...you can also watch the Red Zone channel on Sundays this way, as well as any games being broadcast in your area via CBS, Fox, etc.
I do that all the time. They will give you a day's credit if the outage lasts 4 hours or longer.