The Detroit Lions continue their preseason schedule on Friday night, facing off against the Atlanta Falcons. It’s a good opportunity to put last Thursday’s rough-looking preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers behind them.
While most starters are expected to sit, there are plenty of reasons to still watch. Hendon Hooker is expected to make his first start of the preseason, and it may also be the first opportunity to see Detroit’s first and second-round picks. While coach Dan Campbell wouldn’t 100% commit to it, he noted that both defensive tackle Tyleik Williams and guard Tate Ratledge could make their NFL debuts Friday night.
So with that in mind, here’s everything you need to know to watch Lions vs. Falcons in what is technically referred to as Week 1 of the preseason.
When is the Lions vs. Falcons?
The game is on Friday, August 8, 2025, and kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.
Where is the game being played?
It’s another away game for the Lions. It’s at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
How can I watch Lions vs. Falcons live?
Unlike last week, this game will not be nationally televised. It is available locally on FOX 2 Detroit or any of the other local Lions affiliates, which you can view here.
Is it being replayed nationally?
Yes! You can watch (or record) a replay of the game on NFL Network at 2 a.m. ET Friday night/Saturday morning.
Yes! Regardless of whether you’re local or not, the game is available on the NFL app if you have an NFL+ subscription.
Who is playing in the Lions vs. Falcons?
The Lions are expected to rest most of their starters, but it’s unclear if Ratledge or Williams will play. Hendon Hooker is expected to start at quarterback for the Lions. The Falcons, meanwhile, are not expected to play their top two quarterbacks: Michael Penix and Kirk Cousins. That means a whole lot of Easton Stick and Emory Jones.
Who are the TV announcers for Lions vs. Falcons?
The Lions’ local TV broadcast consists of Jason Benetti, T.J. Lang, and Dannie Rogers.
Radio options for Lions vs. Falcons game?
Same as always. Get your fix of Dan Miller, Lomas Brown, and T.J. Lang over on 97.1 The Ticket.
Or, if you want all of that information condensed:
Lions vs. Falcons game information:
When: Friday, August 8, 2025 — 7 p.m. ET
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Atlanta, GA
TV: FOX 2 Detroit (or other local Lions affiliates)
Online streaming: NFL+
Announcers: Jason Benetti, T.J. Lang, Dannie Rogers
Local Radio: 97.1 The Ticket (Local affiliates here)
Local radio announcers: Dan Miller, Lomas Brown, T.J. Lang
National replay: NFL Network — 2 a.m. ET (Friday night/Saturday morning)