The Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys will face off in what promises to be a highly anticipated matchup in Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season on October 6, 2024, at 6:20 AM GMT+6. This cross-conference clash between two historic franchises is set to captivate football fans across the country. Both teams boast strong rosters and significant playoff aspirations as they approach the heart of the regular season.
In this article, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about this high-profile matchup, from how to watch the game live on TV and online, to team and player previews, key matchups to watch, odds, and predictions. Whether you’re a die-hard Steelers or Cowboys fan, or just an NFL enthusiast, this comprehensive preview will prepare you for all the action on game day.
How to Watch Steelers vs Cowboys: TV & Streaming Options
TV Broadcast
- FOX: This game will be broadcast live on FOX, which holds the broadcasting rights for NFC games. The Steelers vs. Cowboys matchup is expected to be a marquee game of the weekend, and FOX’s coverage will include pre-game analysis, live play-by-play commentary, and post-game reactions. Fans can check their local listings for availability.
- NFL Network: For those with access to NFL Network, the game will also be part of their Sunday programming lineup, complete with analysis and highlights from other NFL games throughout the day.
- Sky Sports (UK): Fans in the United Kingdom can tune in via Sky Sports, which will air this game as part of its NFL coverage. Sky Sports provides expert analysis and commentary for its UK audience.
Streaming Options
- FuboTV: A popular choice for sports fans, FuboTV offers a comprehensive package that includes FOX, the NFL Network, and other key channels, making it one of the best ways to stream live NFL games. It also comes with a 7-day free trial for new users, so you can catch the Steelers vs. Cowboys game at no cost if you’re a first-time user.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV is another excellent streaming option, with access to FOX and other NFL-related programming. Besides the live game, Hulu provides access to an expansive library of TV shows and movies, giving viewers even more content to enjoy.
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers affordable streaming options for NFL fans, including FOX in select markets. Depending on your location, Sling TV may be a cost-effective way to watch the game.
- NFL Mobile App: Fans on the go can stream the game directly from their mobile devices using the NFL Mobile App, which offers live streams of local and prime-time games, including the Steelers vs. Cowboys matchup.
- Yahoo Sports App: The Yahoo Sports App also allows mobile streaming of NFL games, providing another free option for fans to catch this exciting contest.
Other Streaming Options
- Peacock: While Peacock specializes in NBC’s NFL broadcasts, it offers a variety of NFL content, including game highlights and replays, making it a good supplemental option for NFL fans.
- Paramount+: Paramount+ is a great streaming service for fans looking for CBS-related NFL content, but it won’t carry the live Steelers vs. Cowboys game. However, you can catch highlights and replays here.
Steelers vs Cowboys: Game Preview
Pittsburgh Steelers 2024 Season Overview
The Pittsburgh Steelers, under head coach Mike Tomlin, continue their pursuit of AFC supremacy. Known for their physical style of play and strong defense, the Steelers are once again contenders in the tough AFC North. The 2024 season has seen the Steelers build on their traditional strengths while working to develop their offense behind young quarterback Kenny Pickett.
- Offense: The Steelers’ offense has been a work in progress, but Kenny Pickett is showing signs of growth and maturity in his second full season as the starting quarterback. With Pickett at the helm, the Steelers have focused on creating a balanced attack, combining the ground game led by Najee Harris with the passing game featuring wide receivers Diontae Johnson and George Pickens.Harris, a bruising back with elite vision and power, is central to Pittsburgh’s ability to control the clock and wear down opposing defenses. The offensive line, featuring standout players like Isaac Seumalo and Chukwuma Okorafor, will be tasked with giving Pickett enough time to make plays and opening up running lanes for Harris.In the passing game, Diontae Johnson is the go-to receiver, known for his precise route-running and ability to make plays in space. George Pickens offers a big-play threat down the field, giving Pickett a reliable target in critical situations. Tight end Pat Freiermuth is also a key component of the Steelers’ offense, offering a reliable option in the red zone.
- Defense: The Steelers’ defense is once again one of the best in the NFL, anchored by All-Pro edge rusher T.J. Watt. Watt, a relentless pass rusher with an incredible motor, is a game-wrecker who consistently disrupts opposing offenses. Alongside Watt, defensive lineman Cameron Heyward and linebacker Alex Highsmith form a formidable front seven that excels at stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback.The secondary, led by Minkah Fitzpatrick, is also a strength of the Steelers’ defense. Fitzpatrick’s ball-hawking ability and football IQ make him one of the best safeties in the league, and his presence will be crucial in limiting the Cowboys’ potent passing attack.
Dallas Cowboys 2024 Season Overview
The Dallas Cowboys, led by head coach Mike McCarthy, are aiming to return to the Super Bowl for the first time since the 1990s. With one of the most talented rosters in the NFL, the Cowboys are consistently viewed as one of the top contenders in the NFC. The 2024 season has seen them continue to build on their strengths, particularly on offense, where quarterback Dak Prescott leads one of the league’s most explosive units.
- Offense: The Cowboys’ offense revolves around Dak Prescott, who remains one of the top quarterbacks in the league. Prescott’s ability to make quick decisions and his poise under pressure are essential to the Cowboys’ success. He is supported by an array of weapons, including wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who has emerged as a top-tier wideout, and veteran receiver Brandin Cooks, who brings speed and deep-threat ability to the offense.The Cowboys also feature a strong running game led by Tony Pollard, who has taken over as the primary back after the departure of Ezekiel Elliott. Pollard’s speed and vision make him a dangerous weapon both as a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. Dallas’ offensive line, anchored by Zack Martin and Tyron Smith, remains one of the best in the league, providing Prescott with the time he needs to make plays.
- Defense: On defense, the Cowboys are led by linebacker Micah Parsons, one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL. Parsons’ ability to rush the passer, cover tight ends, and make plays all over the field makes him a game-changer. Alongside Parsons, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence continues to be a key piece of the Cowboys’ pass rush, while cornerback Trevon Diggs is known for his playmaking ability and knack for creating turnovers.The Cowboys’ defense, under coordinator Dan Quinn, is one of the most aggressive in the league, using a variety of blitz packages and coverages to keep opposing offenses off balance.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. T.J. Watt vs. Cowboys Offensive Line
One of the key storylines in this game will be the battle between T.J. Watt and the Cowboys’ offensive line, particularly tackles Tyron Smith and Terence Steele. Watt is one of the best pass rushers in the league, and his ability to pressure Dak Prescott could be the determining factor in whether the Cowboys’ offense can get into a rhythm.
If the Cowboys can neutralize Watt and give Prescott time to throw, it will open up opportunities for Dallas’ explosive passing game. However, if Watt can consistently win his matchups and disrupt the Cowboys’ backfield, it will force Prescott into making quick decisions, which could lead to mistakes.
2. Kenny Pickett vs. Cowboys Secondary
On the other side of the ball, Kenny Pickett will face a significant challenge in going up against the Cowboys’ talented secondary, led by Trevon Diggs. Diggs is known for his ball-hawking ability and is always a threat to come away with an interception. Pickett will need to be precise with his throws and avoid taking unnecessary risks, particularly when targeting Diggs’ side of the field.
The Steelers’ passing game will likely look to exploit matchups in the middle of the field, targeting tight end Pat Freiermuth and using short, quick passes to neutralize the Cowboys’ pass rush. If Pickett can establish a rhythm early and avoid turnovers, the Steelers have a good chance of putting up points against this aggressive defense.
3. Najee Harris vs. Cowboys Run Defense
Najee Harris will play a crucial role in this game, as the Steelers will look to establish the run and control the clock. Harris’ ability to pick up tough yards and wear down the Cowboys’ defense could be the key to keeping the game close and setting up play-action opportunities for Pickett.
The Cowboys’ defense, led by Micah Parsons, will need to be disciplined in their run defense, preventing Harris from getting into the second level of the defense, where he can break tackles and create big plays.
4. Dak Prescott vs. Steelers Secondary
For the Cowboys, Dak Prescott will need to navigate a Steelers secondary that features Minkah Fitzpatrick, one of the best safeties in the league. Prescott’s ability to recognize coverages and make quick reads will be critical in avoiding costly turnovers. The Cowboys will likely look to take advantage of matchups involving CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks, using their speed and route-running ability to create separation.
The Steelers’ defense will need to find a balance between pressuring Prescott and containing the Cowboys’ receivers. If the Steelers can get pressure without having to blitz heavily, it will allow them to drop more players into coverage and limit Prescott’s options.
Odds and Prediction
- Point Spread: Cowboys -6.5
- Over/Under: 46.5 points
- Moneyline: Cowboys -250, Steelers +210
Prediction
The Cowboys come into this game as solid favorites, thanks to their high-powered offense and aggressive defense. However, the Steelers have a strong defense of their own, and if Kenny Pickett can avoid mistakes and manage the game effectively, this could be a closer contest than the odds suggest.
Ultimately, the difference in this game will likely be the Cowboys’ ability to execute on offense. With Dak Prescott and his array of weapons, Dallas should be able to put up enough points to come away with a victory. The Steelers’ defense will make it tough, but the Cowboys’ superior talent on both sides of the ball gives them the edge.
- Prediction: Cowboys 27, Steelers 20
The Steelers vs. Cowboys game on October 6, 2024, is shaping up to be a thrilling matchup between two storied franchises. With star players on both sides and playoff implications on the line, this is a game you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re watching on FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or another streaming service, be sure to tune in for what promises to be a hard-fought, exciting contest.
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