What Channel Is The Cowboys Game On? A Complete Guide For Dallas Cowboys Fans

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Hey there, football fans! If you're anything like me, you're constantly wondering, "What channel is the Cowboys game on?" Figuring out where to watch America's Team can sometimes feel like a scavenger hunt, but don't worry, I've got you covered. This guide will break down everything you need to know to ensure you never miss a single snap, tackle, or touchdown.

The Ever-Changing Landscape of NFL Broadcasting

Let's be real, the world of NFL broadcasting can be a bit of a maze. With games spread across various networks and streaming platforms, keeping track of where to tune in each week can be a challenge. Gone are the days when you could simply flip to one of three channels on Sunday afternoon. Now, we've got a mix of traditional networks like CBS, FOX, and NBC, along with cable channels like ESPN and NFL Network, and streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video and more recently, even options like Peacock and Paramount+. It's a lot to keep up with, guys!

To make matters even more interesting, the broadcast schedule can change week to week, depending on the game's importance, the teams involved, and the various contracts and agreements between the NFL and its broadcast partners. This is why it's essential to stay informed and have a reliable source for finding out where the Cowboys are playing each week. Don't fret, though; we'll dive into all the ways you can stay updated.

Understanding the broadcasting landscape is the first step in ensuring you catch every Cowboys game. So, let's break down the key players:

  • CBS: Typically airs games featuring AFC teams.
  • FOX: Usually broadcasts games involving NFC teams, which is great news for Cowboys fans!
  • NBC (Sunday Night Football): Features the biggest matchups of the week, often including the Cowboys.
  • ESPN (Monday Night Football): Another primetime slot that frequently showcases high-profile games.
  • NFL Network (Thursday Night Football): Airs games on Thursday nights, adding another layer to the broadcast mix.
  • Amazon Prime Video (Thursday Night Football): Now has exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football, meaning you'll need a Prime subscription to watch these games.
  • Streaming Services: Platforms like Peacock and Paramount+ are also starting to stream NFL games, so keep an eye out for those! Especially, if the game is on CBS, you will likely find it on Paramount+.

Decoding the Dallas Cowboys Schedule: Your Roadmap to Game Day

Okay, so we've covered the broadcast landscape, but how do you actually figure out which channel is showing the Cowboys game each week? The key is to dive into the schedule. The official Dallas Cowboys schedule, available on the team's website and the NFL's official site, is your best friend here.

When you look at the schedule, you'll see each game listed with the date, time, and opponent. But more importantly, you'll find the broadcasting information. This will tell you exactly which channel or streaming service is carrying the game. Here's what to look for:

  • Network Logos: The most straightforward way to identify the channel is to look for the network logos (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network) next to the game listing. This will quickly tell you where to tune in.
  • Game Day and Time: Primetime games (Sunday Night, Monday Night, Thursday Night) are typically broadcast on specific channels (NBC, ESPN, Amazon Prime Video), so the game time can be a helpful clue.
  • Streaming Designations: Keep an eye out for games listed as streaming exclusively on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, or Paramount+. You'll need a subscription to these services to watch these games.

To really nail down your viewing plans, I recommend checking the schedule early in the week. This gives you plenty of time to figure out your viewing setup, whether it's tuning into your TV, logging into a streaming service, or even heading to your favorite sports bar. Seriously, nothing's worse than scrambling at the last minute and missing the opening kickoff!

Let’s break this down with an example. Imagine the Cowboys are playing the New York Giants on a Sunday night. When you check the schedule, you see the NBC logo next to the game listing. Boom! You know to tune into NBC for that game. If it's a Monday night game, you're looking for ESPN. And if it's a Thursday night showdown, check for NFL Network or Amazon Prime Video. Easy peasy, right?

But what about those weeks where the Cowboys have a less predictable broadcast? That's where those handy network logos and game times really come into play. Trust me, with a little practice, you'll become a pro at decoding the Cowboys schedule and knowing exactly where to watch.

Key Channels and Streaming Platforms for Dallas Cowboys Games

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. To make sure you're fully prepared, let's break down the key channels and streaming platforms that you'll need to have access to in order to catch the majority of Dallas Cowboys games. We've already touched on these, but let's dive a little deeper so you know exactly what your options are.

Traditional Broadcast Networks

  • CBS: As we mentioned earlier, CBS typically airs games featuring AFC teams. However, because the NFL schedule is built to balance rivalries and matchups, you will find Cowboys games on CBS from time to time, especially when they're playing an AFC opponent. Keep an eye out for these games, and make sure you have CBS access through your cable provider or an over-the-air antenna. This is especially important for games that might determine playoff seeding or have major implications for the Cowboys' season.
  • FOX: This is your bread and butter, Cowboys fans! FOX is the primary broadcaster for NFC games, which means you'll see the Cowboys on FOX quite often. Whether it's a Sunday afternoon game or a special event, having access to FOX is crucial. Just like with CBS, you can access FOX through cable or an antenna. And trust me, you don't want to miss those big NFC rivalry games!
  • NBC (Sunday Night Football): Sunday Night Football on NBC is primetime, baby! This is where the biggest games of the week are showcased, and the Cowboys are frequent headliners. When the Cowboys are playing a marquee opponent or a game with significant playoff implications, chances are you'll find them on Sunday Night Football. So, make sure you've got NBC covered in your viewing arsenal.

Cable Channels

  • ESPN (Monday Night Football): Another primetime slot, Monday Night Football on ESPN, is a big deal. The Cowboys often find themselves playing on Monday nights, and these games are always a spectacle. You'll need a cable or streaming subscription that includes ESPN to catch these matchups. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like ending your Monday with some Cowboys football!
  • NFL Network (Thursday Night Football): NFL Network adds another day of the week to the football mix with Thursday Night Football. While Amazon Prime Video now has exclusive rights to most Thursday night games, NFL Network still occasionally airs games, including some Cowboys matchups. Having NFL Network in your channel lineup ensures you're covering all your bases.

Streaming Platforms

  • Amazon Prime Video (Thursday Night Football): This is a game-changer, guys. Amazon Prime Video has the exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football, which means you'll need an Amazon Prime subscription to watch these games. This is a big shift in the broadcasting landscape, so if you're a die-hard Cowboys fan, Prime Video is a must-have.
  • Paramount+: A lot of the CBS games can also be streamed on Paramount+. So this is a great option for watching your team if the game is broadcast on CBS.
  • NFL+: NFL+ is the NFL's own streaming service, and it offers live streams of local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. While you won't be able to watch every game on NFL+, it's a great option for catching games on the go. Plus, it offers access to game replays, so you can relive all the Cowboys' best moments.
  • Other Streaming Services (Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV): These streaming services offer a comprehensive package of channels, including the major networks and cable channels that broadcast NFL games. They're a great option if you're looking to cut the cord but still want to catch all the Cowboys action. Just make sure to check that the service you choose includes the channels you need.

Tips and Tricks for Staying Updated on Cowboys Broadcasts

Okay, so we've covered the channels, the schedules, and the streaming platforms. But what about staying updated in real-time? The NFL schedule can be a bit of a moving target, with changes happening due to flex scheduling and other factors. So, let's dive into some tips and tricks for making sure you never miss a broadcast update.

Follow the Dallas Cowboys and NFL on Social Media

In today's world, social media is your best friend for instant updates. The official Dallas Cowboys accounts on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are great sources for game day information, including broadcast details. The NFL's official accounts are also excellent resources. Following these accounts means you'll get real-time notifications about game changes, broadcast updates, and more. It's like having a personal news ticker for all things Cowboys!

Sign Up for Email Alerts and Newsletters

Another fantastic way to stay informed is to sign up for email alerts and newsletters from the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL. These emails often include the weekly broadcast schedule, so you'll get the information delivered straight to your inbox. No more scrambling to find the channel at the last minute!

Use Sports Apps and Websites

There are tons of sports apps and websites out there that provide detailed game schedules and broadcast information. ESPN, TheScore, and Bleacher Report are just a few examples. These apps often allow you to personalize your settings so you only receive notifications about the Cowboys, ensuring you don't get overwhelmed with information about other teams.

Check Local Listings

Don't forget the old-school method: checking your local listings! Many TV providers have online guides that show the channel lineup for the week, including NFL games. You can also check your local newspaper or TV guide for broadcast information. While this might seem a bit outdated, it's still a reliable way to get the details you need.

Set Up Game Day Reminders

This might seem obvious, but it's worth mentioning. Once you've figured out where the Cowboys are playing, set up a reminder on your phone or calendar. This will help you avoid any last-minute confusion and ensure you're ready to go when kickoff arrives.

Use a TV Guide App

There are apps specifically designed to help you track TV listings, like TV Guide app. These apps let you select your favorite teams and channels, and they'll send you reminders before the game starts. It's like having a personal TV concierge!

Talk to Your Friends

Word of mouth is still a powerful tool. Talk to your friends and fellow Cowboys fans about where they're watching the game. You might discover a new streaming service or a great sports bar in your area that you didn't know about. Plus, it's always fun to share the excitement with others!

What to Do if You Can't Watch Live

Life happens, guys. Sometimes you just can't be in front of a TV when the Cowboys are playing. But don't despair! There are still plenty of ways to catch the action, even if you can't watch live.

NFL Game Pass (NFL+)

As we mentioned earlier, NFL+ is a fantastic option for catching replays of games. With NFL+, you can watch full game replays on demand, so you can see all the highlights and key plays at your convenience. It's a lifesaver for those of us with busy schedules!

DVR

Ah, the trusty DVR. If you have cable, satellite, or a streaming service with DVR capabilities, you can record the game and watch it later. Just make sure you set it up in advance so you don't miss anything.

Condensed Games

If you don't have time to watch the full game, look for condensed games. Many sports websites and streaming services offer condensed versions of games that show all the key plays in a fraction of the time. It's a great way to get your Cowboys fix without committing to a three-hour broadcast.

Highlights

And of course, there are always highlights. ESPN, NFL Network, and countless sports websites post highlights of every game, so you can catch the biggest moments even if you miss the live action.

Social Media

Social media can also be a good way to keep up with the game if you can't watch live. Many fans and sports commentators will be posting updates and highlights on platforms like Twitter, so you can stay in the loop even if you're on the go.

Final Thoughts: Giddy Up, Cowboys Fans!

So there you have it, guys! Your ultimate guide to figuring out what channel the Cowboys game is on. With the ever-changing landscape of NFL broadcasting, it can sometimes feel like a challenge to keep up. But with the tips and tricks we've covered in this guide, you'll be a pro in no time. Remember to check the schedule, explore your viewing options, and stay updated on social media and through email alerts. And most importantly, enjoy the game! Giddy up, Cowboys fans!