Dallas Cowboys Game Schedule & Updates

Planning to catch a Dallas Cowboys game this season? Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, staying updated on game schedules, times, and where to watch is crucial. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to follow America's Team throughout their 2023 campaign. From regular-season matchups to potential playoff pushes, we've got you covered.

Understanding the Dallas Cowboys Game Schedule

The National Football League (NFL) operates on a structured schedule, and the Dallas Cowboys are no exception. The regular season typically spans 18 weeks, with each team playing 17 games and having one bye week. The Cowboys, like all NFC teams, face a mix of divisional opponents, inter-conference opponents, and a rotating schedule against AFC teams each year.

Key Components of the Schedule:

• Divisional Games: Intense matchups against NFC East rivals: the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders. These games often have significant playoff implications.
• Conference Games: Games against other teams within the NFC.
• Inter-Conference Games: Annual matchups against teams from the AFC, which rotate each year.
• Preseason Games: A series of exhibition games played in August, used by teams to evaluate talent and prepare for the regular season. While not counted in official standings, they offer a first look at the team.

How the Schedule is Determined:

The NFL schedule is a complex puzzle released annually, usually in May. It's crafted based on several factors, including:

1. Division Alignments: Teams play divisional opponents twice.
2. Conference Rotation: Teams play all teams in another division within their conference once every three years.
3. Inter-Conference Rotation: Teams play all teams in an entire AFC division once every four years.
4. Strength of Schedule: Based on the previous year's standings, creating a more balanced competitive landscape.

Finding Dallas Cowboys Game Times and Broadcast Information

Knowing when a Dallas Cowboys game is happening is one thing; knowing how to watch it is another. Broadcast rights for NFL games are held by major television networks, and the Cowboys' games are frequently featured in prime time slots due to their national popularity.

Primary Broadcast Partners:

For the 2023 season, Dallas Cowboys games are primarily broadcast on the following networks:

• FOX: Typically broadcasts Sunday afternoon home games and select national games.
• CBS: Broadcasts Sunday afternoon away games and select national games.
• NBC: Features the Cowboys in their Sunday Night Football package, usually for high-profile matchups.
• ESPN/ABC: Hosts Monday Night Football, where the Cowboys are often scheduled.
• Amazon Prime Video: Has begun streaming exclusive Thursday Night Football games, which may include the Cowboys.

How to Check Specific Game Times:

Game times can vary, especially for nationally televised games. The official NFL website (NFL.com), the Dallas Cowboys' official website (DallasCowboys.com), and major sports news outlets (like ESPN, CBS Sports) are the best resources for the most up-to-date game times and broadcast details. Times are usually listed in Eastern Time (ET), so be sure to convert to your local time zone.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on local Dallas media and sports radio stations, as they often provide real-time updates on any potential schedule changes or broadcast nuances.

Following the Cowboys on the Road

When the Dallas Cowboys play away games, understanding the broadcast landscape is key. While FOX and CBS still carry many Sunday afternoon games, the specific network can depend on the opponent's conference and the national broadcast schedule.

Key Considerations for Away Games:

• Network Affiliation: Games against NFC teams are often on FOX, while games against AFC teams might be on CBS. However, national games can override this.
• National Broadcasts: Sunday Night Football (NBC), Monday Night Football (ESPN), and Thursday Night Football (Amazon Prime Video/NFL Network) will feature the Cowboys regardless of location if they are selected for these marquee slots.
• Streaming Options: Many of these networks offer streaming options through their own apps or websites, often requiring a cable or satellite TV subscription. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV also carry most of the major sports channels.

The Importance of the Bye Week

Every NFL team gets a bye week during the regular season. For the Dallas Cowboys, this is a critical period for rest, recovery, and strategic adjustments. It allows players to heal from injuries and coaches to refine game plans without the pressure of an immediate upcoming game.

When is the Cowboys' Bye Week?

The exact timing of the bye week changes each season and is determined during schedule release. It can fall anywhere from Week 4 to Week 13 of the regular season. Information regarding the specific week will be available on the official team and league schedules once released.

Why it Matters:

• Player Health: Crucial for preventing burnout and ensuring key players are healthy for the latter half of the season and potential playoffs.
• Coaching Adjustments: Provides an opportunity to analyze performance, make tactical changes, and prepare for tougher opponents.
• Fan Anticipation: Fans often plan around bye weeks, knowing the team will return refreshed.

Navigating Playoff Games

If the Dallas Cowboys secure a playoff spot, their game schedule transforms. Playoff games are single-elimination, meaning every game is critical. Broadcast networks rotate playoff games each year, but the Cowboys' high profile means they are frequently featured.

Playoff Broadcasts:

• Wild Card Round: Often broadcast on NBC, CBS, or FOX.
• Divisional Round: Similar to the Wild Card round, with networks rotating.
• Conference Championship: Hosted by either CBS or FOX, depending on the year and participating teams.
• Super Bowl: Alternates annually between the AFC and NFC.

Staying Informed: During the playoffs, game times and networks are announced shortly after the previous week's games conclude. Checking NFL.com or the Cowboys' official site is the best way to get this information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How can I find the most up-to-date Dallas Cowboys game schedule?

A1: The most reliable sources are the official Dallas Cowboys website (DallasCowboys.com) and the National Football League's official website (NFL.com). Sports news outlets like ESPN and CBS Sports also provide comprehensive schedules.

Q2: What time are Dallas Cowboys games usually played?

A2: Game times vary. Sunday afternoon games often kick off at 1:00 PM ET or 4:25 PM ET. Sunday Night Football games are typically at 8:20 PM ET, Monday Night Football at 8:15 PM ET, and Thursday Night Football around 8:15 PM ET. Always check the specific game for confirmation. — Where To Find Free Pallets Near You: Top Sources

Q3: Which TV channels broadcast Dallas Cowboys games?

A3: Primary networks include FOX, CBS, NBC (for Sunday Night Football), ESPN (for Monday Night Football), and Amazon Prime Video/NFL Network (for Thursday Night Football). Broadcasts can vary based on national scheduling.

Q4: Can I watch Dallas Cowboys games online if I don't have cable?

A4: Yes. Many streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV carry the necessary channels. Additionally, you can often stream games directly through the network's app or website if you have a TV provider login, or through services like Paramount+ for CBS games or Peacock for NBC games.

Q5: How many preseason games do the Cowboys play?

A5: Typically, NFL teams play three to four preseason games each year. The exact number and opponents are announced closer to the season.

Q6: When does the NFL schedule usually get released?

A6: The full NFL regular season schedule, including the Dallas Cowboys' games, is usually released in May. — Own A Signed Saquon Barkley Jersey: A Collector's Guide

Q7: What happens if a Cowboys game time changes?

A7: Schedule changes, though rare for regular season games, are typically due to major events or broadcast needs. Any changes are widely publicized by the NFL and the broadcast networks. It's best to rely on official sources for real-time updates. — 417 Area Code: Everything You Need To Know

Conclusion: Gear Up for Game Day

Following the Dallas Cowboys games is an exciting experience, and staying informed about the schedule, times, and broadcast details is the first step. By utilizing the resources mentioned above, you can ensure you don't miss a single snap of the action. Whether it's a nail-biting divisional rivalry or a crucial playoff showdown, being prepared means you can fully immerse yourself in the passion and excitement of Cowboys football. So, mark your calendars, set your DVRs, and get ready to cheer on America's Team!