As Thanksgiving approaches, many Americans look forward to the enduring tradition of watching football games, a staple that unites family and friends after a hearty feast. Central to this cultural phenomenon are the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys, two teams synonymous with this holiday ritual.
The Lions: Pioneers of Thanksgiving Football
The Detroit Lions hold the distinction of being the pioneers of Thanksgiving Day football. Their tradition began in 1934, a debut that marked the start of an enduring legacy. Since then, the Lions have played an impressive 84 Thanksgiving games. However, their journey has not been without interruptions. From 1939 to 1944, during the tumultuous years of World War II, the annual games were on pause, reflecting the nation’s focus on events overseas.
Throughout their storied history on Thanksgiving Day, the Lions have recorded 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties. This year, they are set to face the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET, adding yet another chapter to their historic rivalry. The matchup promises to be a thrilling spectacle, as both teams vie for holiday glory.
The Cowboys: Establishing Their Own Legacy
The Dallas Cowboys entered the Thanksgiving scene in 1966, carving their name alongside the Lions in this Thanksgiving tradition. Missing only two games in 1975 and 1977, the Cowboys have since established a strong presence on the holiday, participating in a total of 56 games. Their record stands at 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie, and this year they host the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET.
The Cowboys-Giants matchup is set to capture the attention of millions, featuring two franchises rich in history and looking to make a statement on one of the NFL's most watched days.
A New Era of Evening showdowns
Traditionally, Thanksgiving featured just two games. However, in 2006, the NFL added a primetime slot to meet the growing appetite for more football entertainment. This year, wrapping up the trifecta of Thanksgiving games, the Miami Dolphins will face the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET in a much-anticipated evening game.
The Packers, renowned for their storied past, bring a wealth of history wherever they play, and this primetime encounter will surely be no different. The Dolphins, on the other hand, are eager to make their mark under the national spotlight, adding intrigue to the nightcap.
New Faces Yet to Join the Tradition
While the Lions, Cowboys, and now Dolphins continue to forge Thanksgiving traditions, some teams await their first call to the holiday stage. Among them are the Jacksonville Jaguars, who have yet to experience playing under the unique pressure and festivity of Thanksgiving Day.
As the NFL evolves with each passing year, it is likely only a matter of time before more teams, including the Jaguars, get their opportunity to participate in this cherished tradition, expanding the holiday’s football audience even further.
Thanksgiving is not just about turkey and stuffing; it is a celebration of continuity, competition, and camaraderie, with American football at its heart. Fans from coast to coast look forward to these games, and this year promises to deliver excitement yet again, reinforcing the rich tapestry of Thanksgiving Day traditions.