The Dallas Cowboys face the Atlanta Falcons in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL preseason, offering a crucial final audition for players on the roster bubble. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET on Friday, August 22, with live coverage on CBS and streaming via Paramount+.

This matchup will spotlight key positional battles, including Dallas’ QB2 competition between Joe Milton III and Will Grier. Fans worldwide can watch using VPN services if facing regional blackouts, while fantasy managers should monitor breakout performances.

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How to Watch the Dallas Cowboys vs Falcons Preseason Game Live in 2025: Streaming, Start Time & Key Players

Game Overview: Cowboys vs Falcons Preseason Showdown

The Dallas Cowboys will host the Atlanta Falcons in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL preseason, with kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Friday, August 22 at AT&T Stadium. This final preseason matchup serves as a crucial evaluation period for both teams before roster cuts, with projected starters likely seeing limited action. The game will be broadcast nationally on CBS, with streaming options available through Paramount+ and NFL+.

Key storylines include Dallas’s ongoing quarterback competition behind Dak Prescott, where rookie Joe Milton III battles Will Grier for the QB2 spot. Atlanta will continue assessing their new defensive scheme under coordinator Jimmy Lake, with particular attention on their young secondary. While preseason results don’t count toward regular season standings, this game often determines which bubble players secure final roster spots.

Historical context favors Dallas in preseason matchups, with the Cowboys holding a 3-2 advantage over Atlanta since 2020. However, the Falcons enter this game with renewed energy from their rookie class, including first-round quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who’s expected to play significant snaps.

How to Watch: Streaming Options and Broadcast Details

For viewers across the United States, the Cowboys-Falcons game will be available through multiple platforms:

Platform	Details	Free Trial
CBS	Local broadcast	N/A
Paramount+	Premium tier required	7 days
NFL+	Mobile viewing only	None
YouTube TV	Includes CBS in most markets	7 days
FuboTV	Sports-focused package	7 days

International fans should note that NFL Game Pass International provides complete preseason coverage, while those traveling abroad can use VPN services to access their home market broadcasts. When using VPNs for streaming, connecting to servers in Dallas (for Cowboys broadcasts) or Atlanta (for Falcons coverage) typically provides the best results.

Radio Broadcast Information

Traditional radio broadcasts remain an excellent option for fans, especially those traveling during the game:

• Dallas broadcast: 105.3 The Fan (KRLD-FM) with veteran commentators Brad Sham and Babe Laufenberg
• Atlanta broadcast: 92.9 The Game (WZGC-FM) featuring Wes Durham and Dave Archer
• National broadcast: Westwood One Sports available on SiriusXM channel 88

Key Players to Watch in Preseason Week 3

While star players like Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons will likely see minimal action, several developing talents warrant close attention:

Dallas Cowboys Players

• Joe Milton III (QB): The rocket-armed rookie needs to demonstrate improved accuracy after completing just 52% of passes in preseason
• Jalen Tolbert (WR): Competing for WR3 spot behind CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks
• Sam Williams (DE): Looking to secure rotational pass-rusher role behind DeMarcus Lawrence

Atlanta Falcons Players

• Michael Penix Jr. (QB): First-round pick expected to play entire first half
• Bralen Trice (OLB): Third-round edge rusher showing promising technique
• Clark Phillips III (CB): Second-year defensive back battling for nickel corner position

Position Battles and Roster Implications

With final roster cuts looming, several positional competitions will reach critical stages during this game:

Quaterback Depth Charts

The Cowboys’ backup QB situation remains unstable, with Will Grier currently holding a slight edge over Joe Milton III due to his command of the offense. However, Milton’s physical tools (including his 70-yard arm strength) continue tempting coaches. The Falcons have more clarity with Taylor Heinicke established as QB2 behind Kirk Cousins, but Penix’s development remains crucial.

Secondary Evaluations

Both teams face critical decisions in their defensive backfields. Dallas must determine whether rookie CB Caelen Carson can contribute immediately as the team manages Trevon Diggs’ return from injury. Atlanta’s safety group features intense competition behind starters Jessie Bates III and Richie Grant.

Position Group	Cowboys Outlook	Falcons Outlook
Wide Receiver	5-6 spots settled	4 spots locked
Defensive Line	Deep rotation	Needing emergence
Special Teams	Kicker competition	Returner battle

Fantasy Football Takeaways From Preseason Action

While preseason statistics should be taken with caution, fantasy managers can glean valuable insights from this matchup:

• Running back depth: Monitor snap counts for Rico Dowdle (DAL) and Jase McClellan (ATL) as potential late-round handcuffs
• Red zone usage: Pay attention to which tight ends (Jake Ferguson for DAL, Kyle Pitts for ATL) see targets near the goal line
• Defensive trends: New Falcons DC Jimmy Lake’s schemes could impact IDP (Individual Defensive Player) value

Sleeper Candidates Emerging

The Cowboys’ passing game without CeeDee Lamb (expected to sit) could reveal potential PPR (Points Per Reception) values. Atlanta’s receiving corps behind Drake London also warrants monitoring, particularly if Penix establishes chemistry with a specific target.

Historical Context and Potential Outcomes

Preseason meetings between these franchises have produced memorable moments despite their exhibition status:

Recent Preseason Results

• 2024: Falcons 20, Cowboys 17 (Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson played 2 series)
• 2023: Cowboys 24, Falcons 10 (Will Grier threw 2 TD passes)
• 2022: Cowboys 27, Falcons 23 (Dak Prescott played 1 series)

The 2025 matchup carries particular significance as both teams evaluate their future. Dallas seeks reassurance in their quarterback depth, while Atlanta hopes to confirm their offensive line improvements can support Kirk Cousins’ play-action passing game.

What Success Looks Like

For the Cowboys, avoiding injuries to key players remains the top priority, followed by settling their backup QB competition. The Falcons hope to see continued development from their young defensive front and clarity in their receiving hierarchy.

Beyond the Game: Fan Experiences at AT&T Stadium

For attendees, the Cowboys offer enhanced preseason experiences that make the game worthwhile:

• Training Camp Connections: Meet players after the game during the annual “Fan Appreciation” event
• Stadium Upgrades: Test the new augmented reality features in the Cowboys mobile app
• Merchandise Launches: Exclusive preseason-only gear available at stadium stores

The Falcons contingent will also be visible, as Atlanta’s strong Texas fanbase typically makes the trip to Arlington. This creates a unique preseason atmosphere blending division rival energy with exhibition game casualness.

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