Thanksgiving Football: An Enduring Tradition
Thanksgiving Day in the United States is synonymous with more than just turkey, stuffing, and pies. For millions of Americans, the day would be incomplete without the time-honored tradition of NFL football. This annual sporting event has become as much a part of the holiday as family gatherings and pumpkin pie.
The Lions’ Legacy
The Detroit Lions have been a Thanksgiving staple since 1934, when they played their first Thanksgiving game, establishing a tradition that has endured for nearly nine decades. This important fixture, however, saw a brief interruption from 1939 to 1944 due to World War II. Despite this hiatus, the Lions returned to their role as Thanksgiving hosts, a mantle they continue to hold with pride.
Over the years, the Lions have graced the Thanksgiving stage 84 times. Their record stands at 37 victories, 45 losses, and 2 ties. As the team prepares for this year's game, fans are hopeful for another tally in the win column as they face the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET. This matchup promises to maintain the excitement and competitive spirit we've come to expect from Thanksgiving football.
Cowboys Star on Thanksgiving
The Dallas Cowboys added their star power to the Thanksgiving tradition in 1966. This addition effectively turned the day into a double feature, providing fans with more gridiron action. The Cowboys, known for their formidable presence in the NFL, have indeed left their mark on Thanksgiving. They’ve participated in 56 games on this holiday, charting 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie.
Despite missing the Thanksgiving spotlight in 1975 and 1977, the Cowboys’ continued presence has cemented their place as an essential component of the day’s festivities. This year, the Cowboys are set to defend their home turf against the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET, promising yet another thrilling chapter in their Thanksgiving legacy.
Primetime Addition
In 2006, the NFL introduced a new tradition to Thanksgiving: the primetime game. This addition brought a fresh dynamic to the day, allowing fans to savor even more football excellence after their holiday feasts. This year’s primetime matchup features the Miami Dolphins taking on the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET, adding a marquee finale to what promises to be an action-packed day.
Teams Absent from Thanksgiving
While many teams have had the honor of playing on Thanksgiving, there are some exceptions. Notably, the Jacksonville Jaguars have yet to make an appearance on this special day. The absence of certain teams highlights the exclusivity and prestige associated with the Thanksgiving Day games, a highlight for any franchise fortunate enough to participate.
As families across America gather for their holiday celebrations, the NFL provides a unifying element. The sense of tradition, coupled with the drama and excitement of professional football, makes Thanksgiving a cherished occasion for fans of the sport. With the Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, and a primetime showdown contributing to the day’s lineup, this year’s Thanksgiving promises to deliver the thrills and competitive spirit that define one of America's favorite holidays.