The Dallas Cowboys will bring the preseason to a close against the Atlanta Falcons, with both teams giving important players a final look ahead of the regular season. Dallas won’t have Dak Prescott on the field as he shifts focus to Week 1 in about two weeks, and questions remain around Micah Parsons off the field. That means new opportunities for a quarterback competition to take center stage, with Joe Milton III expected to continue his bid to solidify the backup role.
On the Falcons’ side, the plan mirrors Dallas in resting their top guns, as Michael Penix Jr. and Kirk Cousins are kept on the bench for the preseason finale. Even with the stars watching from the sidelines, the game remains a battleground for depth and evaluation as each team trims toward the final roster.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Friday, August 22. In Dallas, the game will be shown on CBS 11, while Atlanta fans can watch on Fox 5. NFL Network will provide a national simulcast for those outside the local markets. For fans who prefer streaming, the matchup is available on NFL+, and Fubo offers a free trial.
A quick look at context and expectations:
– 2025 preseason schedule and the teams’ recent form are shaping how each club approaches this game.
– Dallas finished the 2024 season with a 7-10 record and missed the playoffs, while Atlanta went 8-9 and also missed the postseason.
– The focus for Dallas is giving Milton more opportunities to prove he can be a reliable second option behind Prescott, with roster spots and long-term depth on the line.
– Atlanta appears to be evaluating its QB depth behind Penix Jr. and Cousins, looking at a few untested players to fill potential roles.
What to watch and why it matters:
– Joe Milton III’s performance: Another solid showing could boost his standing in Dallas’ quarterback room and possibly influence the team’s approach to the backup quarterback position.
– Roster battles: With several veterans resting, fringe players will have a chance to make the final push for a spot on both rosters.
– Offensive and defensive depth: Clean game management and depth at key positions could signal how each team plans to pace the season and handle potential injuries.
A hopeful note: preseason finales are often about growth and opportunity. For Dallas, Milton’s development and the performances of reserve players could set a tone for the season, while Atlanta’s depth chart evaluation could uncover valuable contributors as they build toward competition in 2025.
If you’re following every snap, this game offers a last clear look at who might emerge as reliable depth options as both teams prepare for the regular season.