I am not sure how this is going to work out, but here is what I did . . .

I called Comcast and ordered (and will pick up soon) a digital cable box.  It is free for two months, with no commitments.  The NFL Network is $1.99/month.  I can cancel it at anytime.  Once I connect the box, I call Comcast, they send a signal, and the NFL Network instantly appears.

Now, I can’t vouch for any of this.  I mistrust big corporations as much as they next guy.  But I thought it was worth the gamble this time.  I could watch the game elsewhere with friends, but they are a mixture of different fans and, frankly, I prefer watching games like this in isolation.

I’ll re-post on the success of this venture.  My ultimate plan is to hang onto the box only long enough to catch the Panthers game and then return it.  Hopefully, I’m only out $3.98.