The Tradition of Thanksgiving Football
Thanksgiving Day in the United States marks a time of gratitude, family gatherings, and of course, the cultural staple of American football. It's a day when the gridiron not only takes center stage but also becomes a nostalgic symbol of tradition for millions of Americans. Central to this annual festivity are the iconic teams and matchups that have become synonymous with Thanksgiving itself—the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys.
The Detroit Lions: Pioneers of Thanksgiving Football
The tradition began with the Detroit Lions back in 1934. Their inaugural Thanksgiving game set the course for what would become an enduring holiday ritual. Over the years, this event has woven itself into the fabric of the holiday, with families gathered around television sets, indulging in both football and feasts.
Despite the long legacy, the Lions faced disruptions during World War II, pausing their Thanksgiving games from 1939 to 1944. Yet, the tradition quickly resumed post-war, reinforcing the team's unique role in holiday celebrations. Through the decades, the Lions have participated in a commendable 84 Thanksgiving games, tallying a record of 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties.
This year's game promises to be another intense chapter, as the Detroit Lions gear up to face the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET. Fans of both teams are eagerly anticipating a classic rivalry showdown that typically embodies the passion and unpredictability of Thanksgiving football.
The Dallas Cowboys: A Thanksgiving Staple Since 1966
The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving tradition more than three decades after the Lions, with their first game taking place in 1966. Known for their flair and dynamic play, the Cowboys quickly became a Thanksgiving mainstay, adding their own chapter to the day's storied history. Interestingly, the Cowboys only missed hosting Thanksgiving games twice, in 1975 and 1977.
The Cowboys' record on this holiday stands at 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie over 56 games, cementing their prowess and tenacity on this special occasion. This Thanksgiving, the Cowboys will battle the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET, presenting yet another riveting match that could shift standings and stir emotions.
Primetime Drama: The Evening Game Tradition
While the afternoon slots have long been dominated by the Lions and Cowboys, the notion of a primetime Thanksgiving game is relatively recent, having started in 2006. This addition caters to night owls and those looking for more football after an already heavy dose of pigskin.
This year, the Miami Dolphins will take on the Green Bay Packers. Scheduled for an 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff, the primetime slot ensures that football enthusiasts can conclude their day with another high-octane matchup. It's a relatively new, yet increasingly popular, tradition that rounds out Thanksgiving for many, wrapping the day in anticipation and excitement.
The Unseen Side: Teams Awaiting a Thanksgiving Debut
Yet, despite the storied history, some teams have never appeared in a Thanksgiving game. The Jacksonville Jaguars, for instance, remain one of the few NFL teams yet to grace the Thanksgiving stage. Their absence highlights the exclusivity and prestige associated with playing on this particular day—a dream for many franchises still waiting for their turn under the holiday spotlight.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the anticipation builds not just around the dinner table but also around the football field. For many fans, watching these games is as sacred a tradition as turkey itself, a reminder of both the sport's rich history and the ongoing narrative that each Thanksgiving game keeps alive. With the spotlight on Detroit, Dallas, and now Miami on Thanksgiving Day, this distinctly American tradition promises yet another set of memorable moments. Football, on this holiday, is more than just a game; it's a piece of the American tapestry. And this year is bound to add yet another rich thread to that ever-evolving story.