The Dallas Cowboys are arguably the most popular team in the NFL, and with that popularity comes a legion of dedicated fans eager to catch every game. But in today’s diverse media landscape, the question “Cowboys game channel today?” can be tricky to answer. The answer depends on factors like your location, the specific game, and your preferred viewing method.
In this comprehensive guide, we will navigate the world of NFL broadcasting and streaming, providing you with the knowledge and tools to find out what channel the Cowboys game is on today and ensure you never miss a moment of the action.
The Ever-Evolving Landscape of NFL Broadcasting
Before we dive into specifics, it’s important to understand how the NFL broadcasting rights are structured. Multiple networks and platforms hold rights to different games, leading to a somewhat fragmented viewing experience.
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National Networks:
- CBS: Broadcasts AFC games on Sundays.
- FOX: Broadcasts NFC games on Sundays.
- NBC: Airs Sunday Night Football, a primetime game featuring high-profile matchups.
- ESPN: Broadcasts Monday Night Football and select other games throughout the season.
- Amazon Prime Video: Holds exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football games.
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NFL Network: This dedicated channel offers exclusive games, analysis, and highlights.
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NFL Sunday Ticket: This premium subscription service allows you to watch every out-of-market Sunday afternoon game live.
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NFL+: This subscription service offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices, game replays, and more.
How to Find Out What Channel the Cowboys Game is On Today
With so many options, pinpointing the Cowboys game channel today requires a multi-faceted approach.
- Check Your Local Listings:
- The most straightforward way to find the channel is by consulting your local TV listings. These are typically available in your TV guide or newspaper.
- Remember, schedules can change, so check the listings close to game day for the most accurate information.
- Use the NFL Schedule:
- The official NFL website and app offer a comprehensive schedule of all games, including the channel and time for each matchup. Simply search for the Cowboys game you’re interested in, and you’ll find the broadcasting details.
- Check Team Websites and Social Media:
- The Dallas Cowboys’ official website and social media channels often provide updates on game broadcasts, including channel information.
- Use Sports Apps and Websites:
- Several sports apps and websites, like ESPN, CBS Sports, and NFL.com, offer up-to-date information on game schedules and channels.
- Ask Your Voice Assistant:
- If you have a smart speaker or voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant, simply ask, “What channel is the Cowboys game on today?” and they will provide you with the answer based on your location and TV provider.
Factors That Determine the Cowboys Game Channel
Several factors can influence which channel a particular Cowboys game is broadcast on:
- Day and Time of the Game:
- Sunday Afternoon Games: Most Sunday afternoon games are broadcast on either CBS or FOX, depending on the Cowboys’ opponent and their conference affiliation.
- Sunday Night Football: These primetime games are exclusively broadcast on NBC.
- Monday Night Football: Monday night games are typically aired on ESPN, with some simulcast on ABC.
- Thursday Night Football: Thursday night games are exclusively available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Your Location:
- In-Market Games: If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area or within the Cowboys’ designated broadcast region, you’ll likely be able to watch most of their games on local channels like CBS or FOX.
- Out-of-Market Games: If you live outside the Cowboys’ broadcast region, you’ll need a subscription to NFL Sunday Ticket to watch their games live.
- Special Events:
- Thanksgiving Day Games: The Cowboys traditionally play on Thanksgiving Day, and these games are usually broadcast on either CBS or FOX.
- Playoff Games: Playoff games are typically broadcast on a combination of networks, including CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN.
- Super Bowl: The Super Bowl rotates between networks each year.
Methods for Watching Cowboys Games
Once you’ve determined what channel the Cowboys game is on today, you have various options for watching it:
- Cable or Satellite TV:
- Pros: Offers a reliable way to watch live games, especially if you have a sports package.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially with premium channels and add-ons.
- Streaming Services:
- Pros: More affordable than cable or satellite TV, with flexible plans and no contracts.
- Cons: Channel lineups and game availability may vary. Some services require additional add-ons for sports channels.
- OTA Antenna:
- Pros: Free access to local channels broadcasting NFL games in your area.
- Cons: Limited to in-market games and dependent on signal strength.
- NFL Sunday Ticket:
- Pros: Allows you to watch any out-of-market Sunday afternoon game live.
- Cons: Can be expensive.
- NFL+:
- Pros: Offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices, game replays, and other exclusive content at an affordable price.
- Cons: Limited to mobile viewing for live games and doesn’t include all out-of-market games.
- Sports Bars and Restaurants:
- Pros: A social and enjoyable way to watch games with friends and fellow fans.
- Cons: Can be expensive depending on food and drink purchases. Limited control over which games are shown.
Additional Tips
- Check for Free Trials: Many streaming services offer free trials, allowing you to test them out and potentially catch a few Cowboys games without paying.
- Share Subscriptions: If possible, share a streaming service subscription with friends or family to split the cost.
- Consider a Digital Antenna: If you primarily watch network television, a digital antenna can provide access to local channels, including those broadcasting NFL games, for free.
- Follow the Cowboys on Social Media: The Cowboys’ official social media accounts often provide updates on game broadcasts and other relevant information.
Conclusion
Finding out what channel is the Cowboys game on today might require a bit of research, but with the various options available, you can always find a way to catch the action. Whether you prefer traditional cable, streaming services, or a social outing at a sports bar, the key is to choose the method that best suits your needs and budget.
Remember, the landscape of sports broadcasting is constantly evolving, so stay informed about the latest developments and explore new options as they become available. With a little planning and flexibility, you can ensure you never miss a Cowboys game again. So gear up, show your team spirit, and get ready to cheer on America’s Team!