A Tradition of Gridiron Glory: Thanksgiving Football's Rich Legacy
Thanksgiving Day in the United States marks more than just turkey and family gatherings; it is also synonymous with the tradition of American football. This time-honored tradition brings fans together to witness exciting matchups, with the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys as central figures in this annual celebration of sport.
Detroit Lions: Pioneers of the Thanksgiving Game
The Detroit Lions laid the foundation for Thanksgiving football in 1934, creating a beloved tradition that football fans eagerly anticipate each year. While the Lions have become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day games, their journey hasn't been without interruption. From 1939 to 1944, games were paused due to World War II, a testament to how far this tradition dates back in American history.
Throughout the years, the Lions have played 84 games on this holiday, showcasing their unwavering commitment to this cherished tradition. They have secured 37 wins, faced 45 losses, and ended 2 games in a tie. This year, the Lions are set to battle the Chicago Bears, with kickoff scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET. This matchup promises to reignite a longstanding rivalry and is sure to provide fans with plenty of thrilling moments to feast on post-turkey.
The Dallas Cowboys: Keeping the Tradition Alive
The Dallas Cowboys, often heralded as "America's Team," are also key players in Thanksgiving football. They joined the tradition a few decades after the Lions, debuting their first Thanksgiving game in 1966. The Cowboys quickly made these games a staple in their schedule, with only two exceptions: the years 1975 and 1977, for reasons often tied to league scheduling.
Having taken part in 56 Thanksgiving games, the Cowboys boast a formidable record: 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie. This year's game will see the Cowboys face off against the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET. Known for their fierce rivalries, the Cowboys and Giants promise to deliver a compelling clash that fans won't soon forget.
Thanksgiving Evening Games: A New Era
A more recent addition to the Thanksgiving football lineup is the primetime evening game, a tradition that began in 2006. This expansion brought another layer of excitement to the holiday, captivating audiences with additional top-tier football action under the night sky.
The 2023 Thanksgiving evening matchup features the Miami Dolphins squaring off against the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET. As the Dolphins take the field under the primetime lights, viewers can anticipate a showcase of skill and strategy from two franchises with their eyes firmly set on postseason ambitions.
Untapped Potential: The Jacksonville Jaguars
Despite the breadth of teams that have participated in Thanksgiving games over the years, the Jacksonville Jaguars have yet to make an appearance on Turkey Day. This omission highlights the exclusivity and tradition-bound nature of Thanksgiving football. It remains to be seen whether the Jaguars will join this distinguished slate of teams in the future, potentially offering fans new rivalries and storylines to enjoy.
As we approach this year's Thanksgiving matchups, it's clear that football continues to be an integral part of the holiday experience for many Americans. The games bring families together, spark discussions and debates, and create lasting memories. With a lineup featuring classic rivalries and intense contests, fans nationwide are sure to find much to be thankful for come game day. Whether you're a die-hard supporter of the Lions, Cowboys, Dolphins, or Packers—or just a football enthusiast eager to partake in this storied tradition—Thanksgiving football promises a feast of sports spectacle that will satisfy fans both young and old.