Overview: NFL’s Christmas Day Tripleheader Returns
Football has carved out a Christmas Day niche in recent seasons, giving fans a chance to enjoy NFL action alongside holiday gatherings. The 2025 Christmas Day tripleheader promises a full afternoon to evening of football, with a notable matchup set for the early card: the Dallas Cowboys (6-8-1) traveling to face the Washington Commanders (4-11).
As fans plan their holiday viewing, here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times, networks, streaming options, and smart ways to discuss and wager on Thursday’s games. While the Cowboys–Commanders game is confirmed for the slate, the remaining two matchups will be announced by the league and broadcast partners closer to the date. Stay tuned to official NFL channels for the latest schedules and channel assignments.
Key Game of the Day: Cowboys at Commanders
The rivalry between the Cowboys and Commanders adds extra spice to the Christmas slate. With Dallas battling to close the season strongly and Washington aiming to finish the year with momentum, this game should deliver competitive football and important divisional stakes for fans watching at home or in the stadiums of family and friends.
Where to watch: Network assignments for NFL Christmas Day can vary by year, but the Cowboys–Commanders game is typically placed on a major network with full-season coverage. If you rely on streaming, official NFL apps and participating broadcaster apps will carry live streams, including in-market and out-of-market options depending on your subscription and local blackout rules.
Key betting angles: consider how both teams match up on offense, red zone efficiency, and pressure on the quarterback. Christmas games can feature offensive fireworks or tighter, defensive battles, so stay flexible with your in-game bets and leverage live wagering opportunities as momentum shifts.
Other Two Games on the Christmas Day Card
In past seasons, the remaining games headlined a second afternoon tilt and a primetime late game. Expect two additional high-profile matchups featuring a mix of division rivals, playoff contenders, and teams seeking momentum. Check your local listings and the NFL’s official schedule for exact times and networks as the date approaches.
Streaming options to consider for all three games include:
- NFL app and NFL+ for official live streams, in-game stats, and multi-view options where available.
- Broadcast partner apps (CBS, FOX, NBC or their digital platforms) offering live streams with authentication.
- Streaming services that carry the broadcast networks in your region may also provide access to the games, often with a free trial or holiday promotional offer.
How to Watch: Channels, Times, and Streaming Tips
Kickoff times are typically released well in advance, and network assignments can shift due to flex scheduling or regional interest. On Christmas Day, fans should plan for a daytime start, a middle game in the late afternoon, and a prime-time game to cap the night. To make sure you don’t miss a snap, consider the following:
- Check your local TV guide for the exact network in your area, as channel assignments vary by market.
- Download the official NFL app and the broadcaster apps ahead of kickoff to stream on mobile devices or smart TVs.
- If you’re wagering, set up your accounts on sportsbooks with live odds, player props, and in-game betting options, and review any holiday promos or boosted bets that may be available.
<h2=Wagering and Discussion: Smart, Responsible Betting
Christmas Day is a popular time for in-game betting, prop bets, and fantasy considerations. Here are practical tips to stay responsible while enjoying the action:
- Set a budget for the day and avoid chasing losses after an early game.
- Explore in-game props such as quarterback completions, rushing yards, and receiving touchdowns, which often offer value during live action.
- Engage with fellow fans on social media or in live chat forums to share insights, but verify information from reliable sources and avoid unverified tip accounts.
Final Thoughts
With the Cowboys–Commanders opening the slate, Christmas Day NFL action provides a rare blend of holiday cheer and competitive football. As the league finalizes the remaining two games, fans should prepare to watch via broadcast networks and streaming apps, keeping an eye on kickoff times, channel assignments, and the expanding world of NFL streaming options. Whether you’re enjoying the games at home, at a gathering, or on the go, this year’s Christmas tripleheader is set to deliver memorable moments and lively discussion for weeks to come.
