As America’s Team, the Dallas Cowboys consistently draw attention from football fans across the nation. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a casual viewer, knowing where to catch the Cowboys’ games is crucial for enjoying the action. This article provides a detailed guide to finding out which channel broadcasts Cowboys games, including tips on navigating the TV schedule, streaming options, and how to ensure you never miss a game.
1. Understanding the Broadcast Landscape
The Dallas Cowboys’ games are broadcast on various channels depending on the type of game and the season. The NFL’s broadcasting rights are shared among several networks, including:
- CBS
- FOX
- NBC
- ESPN
- NFL Network
- Amazon Prime Video
Each of these networks has specific games assigned to them based on the NFL’s scheduling and broadcasting agreements.
2. Regular Season Broadcasts
During the regular season, Cowboys games are primarily broadcast on FOX and CBS. The network airing the game often depends on the opponent and the time slot. Here’s a breakdown of how to determine where to find these games:
- FOX: The majority of Cowboys’ games are broadcast on FOX. This network typically covers NFC games, and since the Cowboys are in the NFC East, many of their games will be featured here. FOX games are usually scheduled for Sunday afternoons.
- CBS: Occasionally, Cowboys games are shown on CBS, which mainly covers AFC games. These instances are generally limited to matchups where the Cowboys face an AFC opponent. CBS games are often scheduled for early Sunday afternoons or late Sunday evenings.
3. Primetime Games
For Cowboys games scheduled in primetime slots, the broadcasting network depends on the day of the week:
- Sunday Night Football (NBC): The Cowboys frequently appear in Sunday Night Football games, which are broadcast on NBC. These games are typically scheduled for 8:20 PM ET.
- Monday Night Football (ESPN): Cowboys games on Monday nights are aired on ESPN. These games also start at 8:15 PM ET.
- Thursday Night Football (Amazon Prime Video): Since the 2022 season, Amazon Prime Video has exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football. The Cowboys may appear in these games, which start at 8:15 PM ET.
4. Special Broadcasts
- NFL Network: Some Cowboys games, particularly those featuring a unique storyline or a significant matchup, might be broadcast on the NFL Network. This channel often airs games during the early part of the season and around special events like the NFL Draft or Pro Bowl.
- Thanksgiving Day Game: The Dallas Cowboys traditionally play a game on Thanksgiving Day, which is broadcast on FOX. This game is one of the most-watched of the season and typically features a high-profile matchup.
5. Finding the Schedule
To keep track of which channel is broadcasting the Cowboys’ games, you can use several resources:
- Official Dallas Cowboys Website: The team’s official website offers a detailed schedule with broadcast information. This is a reliable source for up-to-date information on game times and channels.
- NFL’s Official Website: The NFL’s website provides a comprehensive schedule of all games, including broadcast details. This can be useful for finding out which network is airing specific games.
- TV Listings and Guide: Your local TV listings or cable provider’s guide will have up-to-date information on which channel is broadcasting the Cowboys’ game at any given time.
6. Streaming Options
For those who prefer to watch games online or on mobile devices, there are several streaming options:
- NFL Sunday Ticket: DirecTV’s NFL Sunday Ticket offers access to out-of-market games, including those involving the Cowboys. This service allows you to watch all Sunday games, including those that are not available locally.
- ESPN+: While ESPN+ does not cover all Cowboys games, it does offer access to Monday Night Football and other NFL-related content.
- Amazon Prime Video: For Thursday Night Football, Amazon Prime Video is the exclusive streaming platform. A subscription to Prime Video is required to watch these games.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu’s live TV service includes access to major networks like FOX, NBC, and ESPN, making it a good option for watching Cowboys games.
- FuboTV: FuboTV offers a wide range of channels, including those that broadcast Cowboys games. It is a suitable option for sports fans who want a variety of channels.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV also provides access to networks like FOX, NBC, and ESPN, making it another viable option for streaming Cowboys games.
7. Local Broadcasts
In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Cowboys games are typically broadcast on local channels, which may include:
- FOX 4 (WFAA): As the primary FOX affiliate in Dallas, WFAA broadcasts most Cowboys games.
- CBS 11 (KTVT): CBS 11 covers any games that are broadcast on CBS.
For local viewers, checking the local broadcast schedule is essential to ensure you are tuned into the correct channel.
8. Mobile and Cable Alternatives
- Cable and Satellite Providers: Most major cable and satellite TV providers offer packages that include the networks broadcasting Cowboys games. These include providers like Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and DirecTV.
- Network Apps: Many networks that broadcast Cowboys games, such as FOX and NBC, offer mobile apps where you can stream live games if you have a cable subscription.
Conclusion
Knowing which channel broadcasts the Dallas Cowboys’ games is crucial for fans who want to stay up-to-date with their team. By understanding the broadcasting landscape, including which networks cover regular season games, primetime matchups, and special broadcasts, you can ensure you never miss out on the action. Utilizing official schedules, TV guides, and streaming options will help you stay connected to every game, whether you’re watching from home or on the go.
By keeping these tips in mind and regularly checking the schedule, you can enjoy all the excitement of Cowboys football and cheer on America’s Team with ease.
