WASHINGTON — The stage is set for an NFC East showdown today – Sunday, Oct. 19 – as the Dallas Cowboys visit the Washington Commanders. Kickoff is slated for 4:25 p.m. Eastern on FOX.
After a roller-coaster start for both clubs, this game could have far-reaching implications in the division.
Several streaming services will broadcast the game live and you can watch on Fubo (free trial), DIRECTV (free trial) or Sling (promotional offers as low as $4.99).
Streameast alternativesStreaming serviceMonthly PriceFree trialLengthDiscountDIRECTV$74.99Yes5-day$40 off first monthFuboTV$64.99Yes5-day$30 off first monthSling TV$45.99NoN/AHalf off first month
This isn’t just any divisional game — it’s a rivalry with heft. The Cowboys lead the all-time series 79–49–2. Washington is the reigning winner from their last meeting, having edged out Dallas 23–19 to cap the 2024 season.
For Washington, a win would represent both pride and progress: It would mark back-to-back wins vs. Dallas on their home turf (something they haven’t done since 2014–15) and also push their season record above .500.
For Dallas, this is a chance to flip the recent script and reassert dominance within the division. The Cowboys have won 6 of the last 8 meetings and covered in seven of those games.
Storylines to watch
The Commanders have been inconsistent, especially in slow starts. The offense has sputtered early in games, and penalties or turnovers often stall momentum.
Defensively, Washington has shown flashes — rookie cornerback Trey Amos has been a bright spot in coverage — but the unit has struggled to generate turnovers, especially in the early quarters.
Dallas has looked explosive at times on offense, ranking among the top in total offense and passing output.
However, their defense remains a major weak link: opponents have had success in the first read of passing plays, and the Cowboys have the worst rank in several pass-defense metrics.
Turnovers in the red zone and an overly conservative rushing attack on 3rd down have also plagued Dallas.
Cowboys – Commanders Injury Watch
Cowboys: A welcome development is the possible return of CeeDee Lamb (ankle). He has been a limited participant in practice after missing time.
Other Cowboys such as guard Tyler Booker and return specialist KaVontae Turpin have also shown signs of progress.
On the flip side, defensive end Dorance Armstrong (hamstring) did not practice.
Commanders: The big storyline is Terry McLaurin, who has missed the past three games with a quadriceps injury. While he was a limited participant in practice midweek, his full-speed availability remains in question.
Washington also lost wide receiver Noah Brown to IR due to a groin injury as of October 15.
Meanwhile, defensive end Drake Jackson, newly signed, has been placed on IR.
If McLaurin is unavailable, the Commanders’ receiving corps will rely more heavily on Chris Moore and younger options like Jaylin Lane.
Cowboys- Commanders Key Matchups
Dallas must pressure Jayden Daniels early. If Washington’s O-line succumbs, the Commanders’ offense may stall. However, with Drake Jackson out, that task becomes tougher.
Dallas has been beaten too often on early reads and motion plays. Washington may lean on quick passes, misdirection and exploiting favorable matchups.
Neither team has been dominant on the ground, but the side that can reliably run and keep the opposing offense off the field will gain leverage, especially in close moments.
Dallas has had red-zone turnover issues, and Washington has had difficulty generating takeaways. The team that minimizes mistakes and maximizes red zone scoring opportunities could swing this game.
How to Watch Cowboys – CommandersWho: Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington CommandersWhen: Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025Time: 4:25 p.m. EasternWhere: AT&T Stadium | Arlington, TXChannel: FOXBest Streaming Options: Fubo (free trial), DIRECTV (free trial), Sling (promotional offers as low as $4.99).
About Fubo
Fubo, which offers a free trial, has three main packages: Pro costs $79.99/month; Elite is $89.99; Premier is priced at $99.99. Cancel before the free trial ends to avoid being charged. Fubo includes access to more than 185 sports, entertainment and news channels. You can record games, TV shows, movies and more.
About DIRECTV
DIRECTV, which also gives customers a free trial, offers four packages if you continue with the service after your trial ends: Entertainment for $69.99; Choice for $84.99; Ultimate for $109.99; and premier for $159.99. Choice offers the most channels for sports enthusiasts.
About Sling
Sling TV users can get a Day Pass for $4.99; Weekend Pass for $9.99; Week Pass for $14.99; Monthly Pass for $45.99 (and get half off your first month); and Season Pass for $199.99 for 5 months, then $45.99 per month thereafter. You can also subscribe to either the Blue package or the Orange package depending on your viewing preferences. Sling Blue allows up to three streams at a time and Sling Orange allows one stream at a time.
Information from the AP was included in this report and AI might have been used to assist with this story.
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