Where to Watch Cowboys Game: Best Streaming Options and TV Channels

For millions of NFL fans, watching a Dallas Cowboys game is more than just a pastime—it’s a weekly ritual. Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys enjoy immense popularity, often drawing some of the largest TV viewership numbers in the league. Yet, with shifting broadcast rights, a growing list of streaming platforms, and numerous regional blackouts, simply figuring out where to watch the Cowboys game can be a challenge. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual supporter, understanding your options for live coverage is essential.

Main TV Channels for Cowboys Games

The NFL’s broadcast model splits games across various national and regional TV networks. Understanding which channels air Cowboys games most frequently can aid in planning your viewing strategy.

National Broadcast Partners

• CBS: Primarily covers AFC matchups but airs certain Cowboys games, especially when inter-conference matchups occur.
• FOX: The main broadcast partner for NFC games, making it the go-to network for most Sunday Cowboys matchups.
• NBC: Home to “Sunday Night Football,” often featuring marquee Cowboys matchups.
• ESPN: Features “Monday Night Football,” including select Cowboys games each season.
• NFL Network & Amazon Prime Video: These platforms handle most “Thursday Night Football” contests, with select Cowboys appearances.

Local markets like Dallas-Fort Worth can watch games over the air with an antenna on the appropriate network. Nationally televised games reach broader audiences, but out-of-market fans often require specialized access.

“The NFL’s broadcast ecosystem is intentionally complex, but understanding the core lineup—FOX for NFC, CBS for AFC, and NBC/ESPN for primetime—remains essential for Cowboys fans seeking seamless coverage.”
— John Ourand, Sports Business Journal

Regional Blackouts and Restrictions

Occasionally, games may be subject to regional blackouts or switched due to local programming conflicts, particularly if a stadium doesn’t sell out or when local teams have scheduling priority. In practice, this mostly affects viewers using basic cable or local antennas.

Top Streaming Platforms for Watching Cowboys Games

Cord-cutting has dramatically changed how NFL fans tune in. Several robust streaming options now enable access to Dallas Cowboys games live, both at home and on the go.

NFL+ and NFL Game Pass

The NFL has consolidated its digital offerings under NFL+. Subscribers can stream live local and primetime games on mobile and tablet devices, but TV streaming is limited. For full-game replays and condensed versions, NFL Game Pass (now rolled into NFL+) remains valuable for catch-up viewing and international fans.

Major Live TV Streaming Services

Most major “skinny bundle” services offer live access to NFL broadcast partners, often with cloud DVR and multiplatform support:

• YouTube TV: Features FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN in most markets; known for robust sports coverage and no-skip DVR.
• Hulu + Live TV: Carries all major networks plus ESPN and offers Disney+ and ESPN+ as part of some packages.
• Sling TV: Offers NBC and FOX (in select markets), plus NFL Network, but coverage varies by region.
• FuboTV: Strong on sports, it includes all major NFL channels and stands out for international coverage and picture-in-picture tools.
• DIRECTV Stream: Previously AT&T TV, includes NFL channels but may require higher tiers for full local coverage.

These services generally work on ROKU, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, smartphones, and web browsers.

Standalone Apps and Direct Stream Options

Cowboys games shown on FOX, CBS, and NBC typically stream on each network’s official app or website, contingent on having a cable or satellite login. NBC’s Peacock, for instance, increasingly offers select NFL games directly.

For Thursday Night Football, Amazon Prime Video now holds exclusive streaming rights. Any Amazon subscriber can tune in live via smart TV, tablet, or mobile.

Example Streaming Scenario

Suppose you’re a Cowboys fan living in San Diego, outside the Dallas market. A typical Sunday matchup aired on FOX will be available on YouTube TV or FuboTV, provided your package includes FOX in your region. For exclusive games on Amazon, an active Prime subscription is mandatory.

Watching on Mobile and Devices

In an era where fans expect instant, anywhere access, mobile platforms figure prominently.

• NFL+: Offers live in-market and primetime games for mobile and tablet devices.
• Network Apps: FOX Sports, CBS Sports, NBC Sports, and ESPN apps all support mobile streaming, conditional on service authentication.

Most streaming platforms also enable casting or mirroring to smart TVs, further blurring the lines between mobile and traditional viewing.

Sports Bars and Public Viewing Options

Despite the digital shift, the tradition of gathering at a sports bar remains vibrant, especially for major Cowboys matchups. Chains such as Buffalo Wild Wings and local Dallas hotspots purposely tune every screen to the game, offering a community-driven atmosphere. Many fans, especially in out-of-market cities, rely on these venues for reliable access, especially during playoff runs.

Cost Considerations and Streaming Bundles

As streaming has proliferated, cost structures have evolved. Bundles like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV can rival or exceed traditional cable pricing, especially when premium sports packages (like NFL RedZone) are added. On the other hand, single-service options—such as Prime Video for select games or basic NFL+ for mobile—are relatively affordable but come with channel limitations.

Managing Costs Smartly

• Take advantage of free trials during the NFL season’s start.
• Consider splitting streaming subscriptions with family or friends.
• Check for student or military discounts offered by some providers.
• Keep an eye on local blackout risks, especially if relying solely on antenna or basic streaming.

Navigating Out-of-Market and International Viewing

Watching Cowboys games outside Texas can be tricky, as regional broadcasts may favor local teams. NFL Sunday Ticket, available through YouTube TV or as a standalone subscription, remains the gold standard for out-of-market fans, offering every Sunday afternoon matchup live.

International fans, meanwhile, benefit from the global availability of NFL Game Pass (NFL+ International), delivering comprehensive access with few geographic barriers.

Summing Up Your Cowboys Viewing Options

Today’s NFL media landscape provides more options—yet more confusion—than ever for Cowboys fans. Streaming has democratized access, but navigating regional rights, subscription tiers, and blackout rules requires planning. By matching a platform’s coverage to your location and device preferences, seamless access to Cowboys games is achievable—whether at home, on mobile, or gathered with like-minded fans.

FAQs

Where can I stream Cowboys games live without cable?

You can stream Cowboys games through services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, and DIRECTV Stream, which all carry the major NFL broadcast channels. Amazon Prime Video is the exclusive home for some Thursday Night Football games.

Are Dallas Cowboys games available internationally?

Yes, international fans can use NFL Game Pass (now under NFL+ International) for comprehensive live coverage and replays of all Cowboys games, regardless of territory.

What happens if the Cowboys game is blacked out locally?

Local blackouts are now rare thanks to high in-person attendance, but when they occur, the game may be unavailable on local TV or streaming platforms. Sports bars or verified live TV streaming services with broader coverage can sometimes provide alternative access.

Can I watch Cowboys games on my phone or tablet?

Absolutely. NFL+ allows live streaming of in-market and primetime games on mobile devices. Additionally, apps for FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN offer game streams with proper authentication.

How can I watch replays or condensed versions of Cowboys games?

NFL Game Pass (through NFL+) provides full replays, condensed games, and highlights, making it easy to catch up after the broadcast.

Is there a free way to watch the Cowboys game live?

With an HD antenna, you can access locally broadcast games on FOX, CBS, or NBC for free, provided you’re within range. Some streaming platforms also offer brief free trials during the NFL season.