The Detroit Lions hit the midway point in the preseason on Saturday morning with their second of three preseason games. The Washington Commanders are in town for the first time since REDACTED.
The stakes will be much lower than that previous matchup, but that doesn’t mean there will be no stakes. Jobs could be on the line, and with both teams expected to play some starters, it’s a good litmus test game for each side.
So here’s how you can watch Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders in Week 2 of the
preseason.
When is the Lions vs. Commanders?
The game is on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, and kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. ET.
Where is the game being played?
The Lions’ second preseason game will be their one and only home game during the exhibition season. So, yes, this one will be at Ford Field in Detroit.
How can I watch Lions vs. Commanders live?
The Lions will be televised live locally on all of the Detroit Lions TV Network affiliates. In the metro Detroit area, that’s Fox 2 Detroit. For other affiliates, check the Lions’ map here.
Is it being replayed nationally?
Yes, NFL Network is replaying the game on Sunday, August 23 at 3:30 a.m. ET. So… you may want to DVR it.
Can I stream the game?
Yes! If you are not a local Lions fan, you can watch the game on NFL+ with a subscription. Local fans can watch the game on DetroitLions.com or via the official Lions app for free!
Who is playing in the Lions vs. Commanders?
Dan Campbell said that he plans on playing a significant amount of his starters, but he wouldn’t expand upon that. We also know Jared Goff won’t play, and Josh Dobbs will start at quarterback.
As for the Commanders, “a good amount” of starters will play vs. the Lions. At this point, it’s unclear if that will include quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Who are the TV announcers for Lions vs. Commanders?
The Lions’ local TV broadcast consists of Jason Benetti, T.J. Lang, and Patti Cesarini.
Radio options for Lions vs. Commanders game?
Same as always. Get your fix of Dan Miller and Lomas Brown over on 97.1 The Ticket or whatever Lions Radio Network affiliate is available in your area.
Or, if you want all of that information condensed:
Lions vs. Commanders game information:
When: Saturday, August 22, 2026 — 12 p.m. ET
Where: Ford Field — Detroit, MI
TV: FOX 2 Detroit (or other local Lions affiliates)
Online streaming: NFL+ (national), Lions team app (local)
Announcers: Jason Benetti, T.J. Lang, Patti Cesarini
Local Radio: 97.1 The Ticket (Local affiliates here)
Local radio announcers: Dan Miller, Lomas Brown
National replay: Sunday, August 23 at 3:30 a.m. ET — NFL Network
