The National Football League season will begin soon, and that means a financial decision is in order for many hardcore fans. No I’m not talking about those who buy season tickets for the home team. This is the time of year that many have to decide whether the NFL Sunday Ticket package is in their budget. Lets take a look at a few of the frequently asked questions about this popular package.

Can I get the NFL Sunday Ticket on cable?

No. This package remains an exclusive of Direct TV. In fact, the contract to carry the NFL package has been renewed by the NFL and Direct TV, meaning you will only get full access on satellite TV through the year 2014. There is some hope that the Red Zone channel may be available to cable television companies and Dish Network, but it won’t be happening in the 2009 season.

How much is the package going to cost this year?

Right now, early bird subscribers can get the NFL bundle for 9.95, or five payments of $55.99. The regular price is expected to be $300 for the full season.

Are all of the games going to be in high definition?

Only if you subscribe to the Superfan bundle in addition to Sunday Ticket. Superfan is 0, or five payments on your bill. It will provide HD access, as well as the Red Zone channel and SuperCast access which will allow you to stream the games to your computer or cell phone.

Exactly what games are included?

The 2009 Sunday Ticket will show you all of the games that are not on regular network or cable TV. This means all of the early and late games each and every Sunday. The Monday Night Football game and the Sunday evening games will continue to be on ESPN and NBC respectively.

So is the Direct TV NFL Sunday Ticket bundle in your budget this year? With costs nearing 0 for full access, it certainly is a decision that you shouldn’t rush to make.