ARLINGTON, TEXAS – The NFL has officially announced a time change for the highly anticipated Week 9 matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. The game, originally scheduled for the afternoon, has now been moved to a primetime slot on Monday, November 3, 2025, with kickoff set for 7:15 p.m. Central Time (8:15 p.m. Eastern / 6:15 p.m. Mountain).
A Shift into the Spotlight
This schedule adjustment turns what was already a fan-favorite clash into a national spotlight event. The Monday night stage means millions of viewers will now tune in as Dak Prescott and the Cowboys host Kyler Murray’s Cardinals in front of a roaring home crowd under the lights of AT&T Stadium.
The Cowboys enter Week 9 looking to strengthen their playoff position in the NFC East, while the Cardinals are eager to prove they can compete with the league’s best. Moving this game to primetime gives both teams a chance to shine — and to make a statement to the rest of the NFL.
Why the Kickoff Time Changed
According to league sources, the time change was driven by broadcast demand and fan engagement. The Cowboys remain one of the most-watched franchises in sports, and the Cardinals’ recent resurgence — led by a dynamic offense — made this matchup too enticing for Monday Night Football to pass up.
NFL executives also considered travel logistics and local fan convenience when finalizing the shift. The new time allows fans to arrive after work hours while still ensuring an exciting late-evening finish.
What Fans Need to Know
-
New Time: 7:15 p.m. CST kickoff on Monday, November 3
-
Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
-
Broadcast: Live nationally on ESPN and ABC
-
Local Access: Gates open at 4:30 p.m., pregame festivities begin at 5:00 p.m.
Fans attending the game are encouraged to arrive early to avoid traffic delays and enjoy special pregame performances. The Cowboys organization has announced extended fan experiences throughout the evening, including live music, giveaways, and exclusive merchandise drops.
Players to Watch
-
Dak Prescott (Cowboys QB): Coming off a strong midseason stretch, Prescott’s leadership and precision passing will be key against Arizona’s aggressive defense.
-
CeeDee Lamb (WR): The Cowboys’ top target has been electric this season, and Monday night lights often bring out his best performances.
-
Kyler Murray (Cardinals QB): Returning from injury, Murray’s dual-threat ability could challenge Dallas’s defense.
-
Budda Baker (S): Expect the Cardinals’ defensive captain to play a critical role in limiting explosive plays.
What This Game Means
Both teams enter Week 9 at a pivotal point in their season. The Cowboys are eyeing a deep playoff run and need to keep momentum alive in front of their home crowd. Meanwhile, the Cardinals, still battling through a rebuilding phase, see this matchup as an opportunity to prove they belong in the NFC’s top tier.
With playoff implications on the line, primetime exposure, and the energy of AT&T Stadium behind them, this Monday night duel promises fireworks both on and off the field.
Fan Reactions and Hype
The announcement of the time change has sparked huge excitement on social media, with fans welcoming the move to Monday night. “There’s nothing like Cowboys football under the lights,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another joked, “Guess I’m calling in late Tuesday morning — can’t miss a minute of this one!”
Final Thoughts
The updated kickoff time only adds to the drama of this Week 9 showdown. With two electrifying quarterbacks, two passionate fanbases, and one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL, Cowboys vs Cardinals on Monday Night Football is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling matchups of the 2025 season.
