Thanksgiving is not just a time for feasting and family, but also for one of the most beloved American traditions—watching NFL football. NFL games on Thanksgiving have become a staple in the holiday, blending the excitement of sports with the warmth of the season. From historical moments to memorable matchups, Thanksgiving football is as iconic as turkey and stuffing.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving, how it started, the teams that play, memorable moments, and the future of this cherished custom.
The History of NFL Thanksgiving Games
How It All Began
The tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving dates back to 1934. The Detroit Lions were the first NFL team to host a Thanksgiving game, and it quickly became a hallmark of the holiday. George A. Richards, the Lions’ owner at the time, initiated the idea as a marketing strategy to draw attention to his newly acquired team. The Lions played against the Chicago Bears, and though Detroit lost the game, the broadcast garnered significant attention.
Richards, who also owned a radio station, partnered with NBC to broadcast the game nationwide. The massive success of the broadcast cemented the idea of Thanksgiving football in the minds of Americans, and from then on, the Lions were Thanksgiving Day regulars.
The Cowboys Join the Tradition
In 1966, the Dallas Cowboys joined the Lions as a Thanksgiving Day team. General manager Tex Schramm wanted to boost the team’s national visibility, and the Thanksgiving Day game was the perfect opportunity. The Cowboys played the Cleveland Browns that year, and the game was a massive hit, both in terms of viewership and attendance. The Cowboys won 26-14, further solidifying the allure of Thanksgiving football.
Since then, both the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have become Thanksgiving Day staples, and their games are a highly anticipated part of the NFL season.
Why the Lions and Cowboys Always Play on Thanksgiving
Detroit Lions: The Pioneers
As mentioned, the Lions were the first NFL team to embrace Thanksgiving football, and their participation in the tradition has remained unbroken since 1934 (except for the World War II years). The NFL schedules a Thanksgiving game for the Lions annually, with fans from Detroit and beyond eagerly tuning in to see if the team can deliver a holiday win.
The Lions’ legacy on Thanksgiving isn’t just a matter of nostalgia; it’s a symbol of their place in NFL history. The team may not always be a powerhouse during the regular season, but on Thanksgiving Day, all eyes are on Detroit.
Dallas Cowboys: America’s Team
The Cowboys’ association with Thanksgiving is almost as strong as the Lions, despite their entry into the tradition coming three decades later. Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys have an undeniable connection to Thanksgiving, often giving fans some of the most exciting and high-stakes matchups of the season.
The Cowboys’ Thanksgiving games often feature star-studded performances, crucial playoff implications, and sometimes even bitter rivalries. Their Thanksgiving Day dominance, both in terms of wins and viewer engagement, has made the Cowboys synonymous with holiday football.
Memorable Thanksgiving Day Games
“The Leon Lett Game” (1993)
One of the most memorable Thanksgiving games took place in 1993 between the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins. In a snowy affair at Texas Stadium, the Cowboys appeared to have won the game after the Dolphins’ kicker missed a potential game-winning field goal. However, Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett attempted to recover the ball, slipping and knocking it towards the end zone, where the Dolphins recovered it. This blunder allowed Miami to kick a shorter field goal and win 16-14. This game is often remembered as one of the most bizarre endings in NFL history.
The O.J. Simpson Show (1976)
In 1976, O.J. Simpson put on a show for the ages during a Thanksgiving game between the Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions. Simpson rushed for 273 yards, setting a single-game rushing record at the time. Although the Bills ultimately lost 27-14, Simpson’s historic performance is etched in Thanksgiving Day lore. It was a game that highlighted individual brilliance on a day typically dominated by team efforts.
“The Butt Fumble” (2012)
A more recent iconic moment happened during the 2012 Thanksgiving game between the New York Jets and New England Patriots. Mark Sanchez, the Jets’ quarterback, made an unforgettable mistake known as the “Butt Fumble.” While trying to scramble, Sanchez collided with his own lineman’s backside and fumbled the ball, which the Patriots recovered and returned for a touchdown. The Patriots went on to demolish the Jets 49-19, but the game is remembered for that single, humiliating play.
Thanksgiving Day Games: The Modern Format
Three Games, All-Day Football
Today, Thanksgiving NFL games are more exciting than ever. Since 2006, the NFL added a third game to the Thanksgiving slate, allowing fans to enjoy football from morning to night. The day typically starts with the Detroit Lions hosting an early afternoon game, followed by the Dallas Cowboys in the late afternoon slot, and then the evening game featuring two rotating teams. This three-game schedule ensures that no matter where you are in the U.S., you can indulge in football while enjoying your Thanksgiving meal.
Primetime Spotlight
The introduction of the primetime game has added an extra layer of excitement to the day. Usually reserved for marquee matchups, this game often features teams battling for playoff positions or hosting long-standing rivalries. With millions tuning in across the country, the Thanksgiving night game has become just as beloved as its afternoon predecessors.
How Teams Are Chosen for Thanksgiving Games
Tradition Meets Strategy
While the Lions and Cowboys are Thanksgiving mainstays, the NFL carefully selects the other matchups to maximize viewership and intrigue. The rotating primetime game features a mix of exciting teams and playoff contenders to keep audiences glued to their screens. The NFL also ensures that teams with passionate fan bases and recent success get featured, making the games relevant and competitive.
In addition to competitive balance, the NFL sometimes schedules teams with notable rivalries or interesting storylines. For example, in 2020, the Baltimore Ravens faced the Pittsburgh Steelers in a heated AFC North showdown, bringing added intensity to the Thanksgiving lineup.
Thanksgiving Halftime Shows
Entertainment Meets Sports
Thanksgiving NFL games aren’t just about the action on the field—they’re also known for their elaborate halftime shows. The Dallas Cowboys, in particular, are famous for their star-studded performances, often featuring major musical acts and extravagant productions. These halftime shows add to the spectacle of the day, giving fans a little break from the intensity of the game while keeping them entertained.
The Detroit Lions also host a halftime show, usually with a more traditional focus, often featuring Motown acts or local musicians. The combination of music and football has become part of the holiday, making the games feel like a grand event that encompasses the spirit of Thanksgiving.
The Future of Thanksgiving NFL Games
More Teams, More Excitement
As the NFL evolves, there have been discussions about expanding Thanksgiving football further. Some fans have expressed interest in rotating the teams more often, giving other franchises a chance to play on this special day. While the Lions and Cowboys are likely to remain fixtures, the primetime slot offers flexibility for fresh matchups each year.
The NFL is always looking for ways to enhance the viewer experience, and as technology and media consumption habits change, so too might Thanksgiving football. Whether it’s through interactive experiences, enhanced broadcasts, or even international games, the league is sure to find innovative ways to keep Thanksgiving football relevant and exciting.
Expanding the Tradition Internationally
With the NFL’s growing international fan base, there has even been talk of hosting a Thanksgiving game outside of the U.S. London or Mexico City could be potential hosts, bringing the tradition to a global audience. While this would be a huge departure from the current setup, it shows how the NFL is willing to think big when it comes to evolving its Thanksgiving games.
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Why We Love NFL Thanksgiving Games
NFL games on Thanksgiving are more than just sports—they’re part of the fabric of the holiday. These games bring together family and friends, providing a shared experience that complements the joy of the season. Whether it’s rooting for your team, watching a memorable play, or simply enjoying the excitement of live sports, Thanksgiving football has something for everyone.
From the historic legacy of the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys to the introduction of the primetime game, Thanksgiving NFL games continue to evolve while staying true to their roots. As we look forward to more thrilling matchups, one thing is clear: Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without football.