Thanksgiving Day in the United States has become synonymous with turkey, family gatherings, and the unmistakable roar of the football crowd. American football has woven itself into the tapestry of this national holiday, serving as a cornerstone event that fans eagerly anticipate each year. The tradition of Thanksgiving football games brings together teams with storied pasts, and it is the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys that hold the torch for this cherished custom.
The Lions' Legacy
The Detroit Lions etched their place in Thanksgiving history by kicking off this ritual back in 1934. The initiative to play on Thanksgiving was a strategic move by then-owner George A. Richards, who sought to boost the franchise's popularity. Since that first kick-off, the Lions have become a fixture of Thanksgiving celebrations in Detroit, with the team having engaged in 84 Thanksgiving matchups over the decades.
World War II interrupted the Lions' steady run from 1939 to 1944, a pause that marked a rare break in their enduring Thanksgiving presence. In their historical tally of Thanksgiving games, the Lions boast 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties. This year, in what promises to be a thrilling encounter, they will face off against the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET. As always, fans will gather with the expectation of witnessing gripping football action that stands as a centerpiece of the holiday.
The Cowboys' Contribution
While the Lions may have started the Thanksgiving tradition, the Dallas Cowboys have played a significant part in shaping it since 1966. The Cowboys' entry into the Thanksgiving football scene brought a new level of competition and popularity to the games. Known for their prowess on the field, the Cowboys have delivered many memorable performances. In their 56 Thanksgiving appearances, the Cowboys have secured 33 wins, alongside 22 losses and one tie.
The Cowboys missed playing on Thanksgiving only twice, in 1975 and 1977, but they have otherwise remained a constant and electrifying participant. This year, their contest against the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET is expected to draw in viewers from across the country, as fans are keen to see how the Cowboys mark this holiday occasion with their characteristic flair and determination.
A Growing Tradition
The Thanksgiving football tradition expanded further in 2006 with the addition of a primetime game. Designed to captivate audiences with a thrilling nightcap, the evening game has become yet another anticipated part of the day's lineup. This year, the Miami Dolphins are set to battle the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET, rounding out a day filled with top-tier football excitement. Each year, this prime slot offers a spectacle under the lights—a fitting end to a day centered on sport and celebration.
Interestingly, amidst the teams that have graced the Thanksgiving stage, the Jacksonville Jaguars remain one of the few yet to make an appearance on this day. As the tradition continues to evolve, teams like the Jaguars may find their opportunity to join the Thanksgiving fray in the future, adding another chapter to the legacy of Thanksgiving football.
With storied franchises, time-honored matches, and new hopefuls awaiting their chance, Thanksgiving Day football remains an unmissable part of the holiday. Whether you're cheering for the Lions, the Cowboys, or any other team that steps onto the field, the games are about more than just points scored—they’re about community, history, and the spirit of competition that brings everyone together on this festive day.