Watch 49ers vs. Cardinals NFL Week 3 Game Free Online or on TV

Key Matchup in the NFC West

The San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals are set to face off on Sunday in Santa Clara, marking a crucial Week 3 contest in the NFC West. Both teams enter the game with unbeaten records, making this matchup a significant test for each squad as they aim to maintain their dominance in the division.

The game is scheduled to start at 4:25 p.m. ET (1:25 p.m. PT) and will be broadcast on FOX. Fans who prefer to watch online can stream the game through various platforms, including FuboTV, DirecTV, and SlingTV, all of which offer free trials for new users.

How to Watch the Game

• When: Sunday, September 21, at 4:25 p.m. ET (1:25 p.m. PT)
• Where: Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
• TV Channel: FOX
• Live Streams:
• FuboTV (free trial)
• DirecTV (free trial)
• SlingTV (low introductory rate)

Game Preview and Key Storylines

The NFC West has been a competitive division this season, and this matchup adds even more intrigue as both teams remain undefeated. The Arizona Cardinals have secured two wins so far, defeating the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers. Despite facing teams that could potentially pick early in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cardinals have shown resilience, particularly on defense. Their "bend-not-break" approach allowed them to hold both the Saints and Panthers to under five yards per offensive play, showcasing a strong defensive performance.

On the other hand, the San Francisco 49ers also sit at 2-0, having defeated the rebuilding Saints earlier this season. The 49ers started their campaign with a narrow win over the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1 and then handled the Saints again last week. However, the team faces some challenges as quarterback Brock Purdy is expected to miss the game due to a toe injury. This means that Mac Jones will make his first start in a 49ers uniform. With Purdy's absence, the 49ers' offense may not be as explosive, and they are currently listed as a 1.5-point home favorite against Arizona.

Live Streaming Options

For those looking to stream the game, several options are available:

• FuboTV (free trial): Known for its excellent viewer experience and extensive live sports library, FuboTV offers a monthly rate starting at $54.99 after the trial period. A $30 discount is available, and the base plan includes ESPN Unlimited. Additional packages like NFL Red Zone are available for an extra fee.

• DirecTV (free trial): The first month after the 5-day free trial starts as low as $49.99, with a current $35 discount. ESPN Unlimited and NFL Red Zone are included with add-on packages or sports plans. Other lower-cost alternatives, such as Genre Packs, are also available, some of which come with free gift cards.

• SlingTV (low intro rate): SlingTV offers a half-price deal for those looking for a month or more of TV service. Monthly plans start at just $29.99 with an introductory rate. Viewers can explore different plans, including daily and weekly passes, on the platform’s website.

This matchup promises to be a high-stakes battle between two of the NFC West's top teams. With key players missing and the stakes high, fans can expect an exciting game filled with strategic plays and intense competition. Whether watching on TV or streaming online, the game is sure to be a must-see event for football enthusiasts.