In his column, Mickey Spagnola uses both Cowboys history and Netflix's new docuseries America's Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys to underscore a timely lesson for 2025 — the importance of having a reliable backup quarterback behind Dak Prescott.

For the last two weeks, we've harped on the lack of importance in preseason wins and losses, so getting this victory over the Falcons shouldn't be overblown. But the individual performances are something to get excited about. 

In their final game of the exhibition schedule, the Cowboys take down the Falcons, 31-13

In the final preseason game for the Cowboys, there were several players who fought hard to leave a mark for themselves against the Falcons.

Here some of the key players to watch, according to the staff writers of DallasCowboys.com.

On September 4, Sam Williams will take the field for an NFL game for the first time in 599 days since suffering an ACL and MCL tear last year. Motivated by being back and healthy, Williams is excited to play in Matt Eberflus' "violent" defense. 

Joe Milton and the Cowboys' offense are hoping for a better showing when he takes on the Falcons in the 2025 preseason finale.

Joe Milton will start for the third straight preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons on Friday night. He discussed his mindset and approach heading into the week, and how he can improve his own grades of D and D-minus from the last two weeks. 

In the Cowboys' final training camp practice at the Star in Frisco, Joe Milton's deep touchdown throw and CeeDee Lamb's one-handed grab highlighted the day. 

Here are some of the key moments and storylines from Tuesday's practice at Ford Center in Frisco. 

Having missed time in Oxnard and during the preseason to this point due to injury, Jaydon Blue has officially been cleared for takeoff when the Cowboys face the Falcons. 

Heading into his first NFL regular season as a head coach, there's been plenty to learn about Brian Schottenheimer's philosophy. On Monday, he talked about what he believes in when it comes to who plays in the preseason, and how the team makes roster decisions. 

Dak Prescott will not take the field for the Cowboys this preseason, and it'll be Joe Milton getting the start vs. the Falcons — as Will Grier stands by.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III's best plays from 165-yard game vs. the Atlanta Falcons during Preseason Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season.

Highlights from the Preseason Week 3 matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and the Dallas Cowboys during the 2025 NFL season.

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Robert Rochell hauls in former Dallas Cowboys seventh round pick quarterback Ben DiNucci's deep ball for INT

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Phil Mafah powers through defenders for 15-yard gain.

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Phil Mafah gets in for first preseason TD as a Cowboy.

Dallas Cowboys tight end Rivaldo Fairweather dodges tackle for 16-yard gain.

Dallas Cowboys rookie linebacker Shemar James perfectly positioned to snag Atlanta Falcons quarterback Easton Stick's interception.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III's deep touchdown toss to wide receiver Jalen Brooks travels over 30 air yards.

Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Perrion Winfrey brings down Atlanta Falcons quarterback Easton Stick on major third-down sack.

Join the DallasCowboys.com staff for Countdown to Kickoff sponsored by AT&T as they countdown to kickoff for the final preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons in Arlington, TX

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III's turbo boost is formidable during QB's 18-yard run down sideline.

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Jaydon Blue's TD run marks RB's first preseason score as a Cowboy.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III walks it in for a touchdown after a perfect play fake.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III's tight-window dime to tight end Rivaldo Fairweather goes for 25-yard gain

Dallas Cowboys running back Deuce Vaughn bursts through for a 12-yard gain into the red zone.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III uses his speed for first down.

Dallas Cowboys defensive end James Houston sneaks in to sack Atlanta Falcons quarterback Easton Stick.

Dallas Cowboys earned a 31-13 win against the Atlanta Falcons in the final preseason game of the year.

The Cowboys prepare to take on the Atlanta Falcons in their final preseason game of 2025 at AT&T Stadium.

The Cowboys arrive for the final preseason game of the 2025 season to take on the Atlanta Falcons at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX.

Jerry Jones reveló detalles de las negociaciones con Parsons, mientras el jugador responde con mensajes y gestos que generan dudas. Aún sin un nuevo acuerdo, su presencia en el inicio de temporada sigue en el aire.

Joe Milton dio un paso adelante y los novatos se lucieron con jugadas clave en la victoria ante los Falcons. Un cierre positivo para Dallas rumbo al inicio de temporada. Aquí el resumen completo del partido.

Los Cowboys cerraron su campamento con jugadas explosivas de Joe Milton, una increíble recepción de CeeDee Lamb y una defensa sólida liderada por Kaiir Elam y Jack Sanborn. El equipo deja buenas sensaciones rumbo a la temporada.