Thanksgiving Day Football: A Storied Tradition

Thanksgiving Day Football: A Storied Tradition

As Thanksgiving Day approaches, households across the United States gear up for a feast of turkey, stuffing, and a cherished American tradition: football. The juxtaposition of family gatherings and gridiron clashes has become an integral part of the holiday’s fabric, with two longstanding hosts leading the charge — the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys.

The Detroit Lions: Pioneers of Thanksgiving Football

The history of Thanksgiving Day football is deeply entwined with the Detroit Lions' legacy. It all began in 1934 when George A. Richards, the Lions' first owner, initiated the tradition of playing a game on Thanksgiving to boost attendance and gain more media attention. This initiative proved successful, and the Lions have since become synonymous with Thanksgiving. However, the tradition hit a temporary pause during the years of World War II, from 1939 to 1944, reflecting the broader interruptions in everyday life during that turbulent period.

As the 2023 Thanksgiving Day game approaches, the Lions have amassed a rich history of 84 games on this holiday. Their record stands at 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties, showcasing the competitive nature of these annual fixtures. This year, they are slated to face off against the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET — a matchup that promises to add another compelling chapter to the Lions' storied Thanksgiving legacy.

The Dallas Cowboys: A Staple Since 1966

Joining the Lions in making Thanksgiving Day football a cherished national pastime, the Dallas Cowboys began their Thanksgiving tradition in 1966. Texas’ iconic team brought its larger-than-life presence to the holiday, captivating audiences with its flair and competitive spirit. The Cowboys' commitment to Thanksgiving football, only briefly interrupted in 1975 and 1977, has solidified their status as a Thanksgiving staple.

Accumulating a Thanksgiving Day record of 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie over the span of 56 games, the Cowboys have consistently delivered memorable moments and thrilling performances. This year, fans can look forward to another dramatic encounter as the Cowboys welcome the New York Giants to their formidable home field at 4:30 p.m. ET.

Primetime Showdowns: The New Evening Tradition

The excitement of Thanksgiving football does not end in the afternoon. Since 2006, the tradition has evolved to include an evening game, offering fans an entire day of football entertainment. This modern addition to the Thanksgiving schedule has featured numerous standout games, continuing to draw high viewership and fan engagement.

This year, the evening spotlight falls on the Miami Dolphins and the Green Bay Packers. Scheduled to kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET, this primetime showdown promises high-octane action under the lights, as both teams bring their A-game to the national stage, concluding the holiday with a showcase of athletic prowess and strategic gameplay.

Notable Absences

While teams like the Lions and Cowboys have long held their places in Thanksgiving lore, not every NFL team has had the chance to partake in this exclusive tradition. The Jacksonville Jaguars, for instance, have never played on Thanksgiving Day, symbolizing the somewhat selective nature of the holiday’s fixtures. Other teams also have sporadic histories with Thanksgiving games, reflective of the varying dynamics and schedules that define each NFL season.

The Essence of Thanksgiving Football

Beyond the scores and statistics, Thanksgiving Day football encapsulates the spirit of unity and rivalry that defines the NFL. It’s a day when teams transcend regular season narratives, entering the larger framework of national celebration and sporting heritage. As each game unfolds, fans are treated to moments of brilliance and heart-stopping excitement, all punctuated by the cheers and jeers of grateful viewers.

As millions gather around television sets across the country, this Thanksgiving Day promises to celebrate not just football, but a sense of continuity and tradition that binds generations of fans together. Through victories and defeats, the Lions, Cowboys, and their rivals will once again remind everyone why Thanksgiving is truly a special day in the world of American sports.