NFL Thanksgiving Games: Teams Playing This Year

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, delicious food, and of course, football! For many Americans, watching NFL games on Thanksgiving Day is a beloved tradition. But which teams will be battling it out on the gridiron this year? Let's dive into the details of the NFL Thanksgiving Day schedule and explore the history and significance of this annual football feast.

The tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving dates back to the league's early days. The Detroit Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game every year since 1934, a streak only interrupted by World War II. The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day tradition in 1966 and have been a fixture ever since, with only a couple of exceptions. These two teams provide the backbone of the Thanksgiving Day NFL schedule, offering fans a consistent dose of football alongside their turkey and stuffing.

Thanksgiving Day Game Schedule: A Feast for Football Fans

Each year, the NFL serves up a tripleheader of games on Thanksgiving Day, providing a full day of football action. The typical schedule includes:

• Early Game: The Detroit Lions host a game, usually kicking off around 12:30 PM ET.
• Afternoon Game: The Dallas Cowboys host a game, typically starting around 4:30 PM ET.
• Primetime Game: A third game is played in primetime, often featuring teams with strong rivalries or playoff implications, kicking off around 8:20 PM ET.

These games are not just about football; they're about tradition, family, and the shared experience of watching sports together. The energy and excitement surrounding these games are palpable, making Thanksgiving Day a special occasion for NFL fans.

Analyzing the Matchups: What to Expect This Thanksgiving

To really understand what makes these games special, let's analyze what factors the NFL considers when selecting which teams will play on Thanksgiving, and what can be expected from the matchups this year.

The NFL considers a variety of factors when selecting the teams that will play on Thanksgiving. These include:

• Tradition: The Lions and Cowboys are Thanksgiving Day staples due to their long-standing history of hosting games on this holiday.
• Rivalries: The league often tries to schedule games between teams with strong rivalries, as these matchups tend to be highly competitive and draw significant viewership.
• Playoff Implications: Games that have a significant impact on playoff standings are also prioritized, as they add an extra layer of excitement and importance to the contest.
• Marketability: Teams with large fan bases and star players are often selected to maximize viewership and revenue.

This year, we can expect a mix of classic rivalries, teams with playoff aspirations, and potentially some exciting up-and-coming squads. The specific matchups will be announced in the spring, but fans can anticipate a slate of games that offer compelling storylines and competitive action. Think about the potential for a division rivalry game with playoff seeding implications, or perhaps a matchup featuring two high-powered offenses. The possibilities are endless, and the anticipation is part of what makes Thanksgiving Day football so special.

The History of NFL on Thanksgiving: A Tradition Unlike Any Other

The history of NFL games on Thanksgiving is rich and fascinating. As mentioned earlier, the Detroit Lions have been hosting a game on Thanksgiving since 1934. This tradition began as a way to boost attendance and provide entertainment during the holiday season. The Lions' owner, George A. Richards, recognized the potential of Thanksgiving Day football to draw fans, and he was right. The tradition stuck, and the Lions have been a Thanksgiving Day fixture ever since.

The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day tradition in 1966, thanks to their general manager, Tex Schramm. Schramm saw the opportunity to showcase the Cowboys to a national audience on Thanksgiving, and the team has been a staple of the holiday schedule ever since. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day games have become legendary, often featuring memorable moments and exciting finishes.

Over the years, many other teams have had the opportunity to play on Thanksgiving, but the Lions and Cowboys remain the two constants. Their presence on the Thanksgiving Day schedule provides a sense of tradition and continuity, connecting fans to the rich history of the NFL.

Memorable Thanksgiving Day Games: Moments That Defined the Holiday

Throughout the history of NFL Thanksgiving Day games, there have been countless memorable moments. These games have produced dramatic comebacks, stunning upsets, and unforgettable individual performances. Here are a few examples:

• 1993: Leon Lett's Blunder: In a game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett infamously attempted to recover a blocked field goal in the snow, only to slip and allow the Dolphins to recover the ball and kick a game-winning field goal. This play is a classic example of Thanksgiving Day drama.
• 1998: Randy Moss's Explosion: In a game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Dallas Cowboys, rookie wide receiver Randy Moss had a breakout performance, catching three touchdowns for 163 yards. This game announced Moss as a superstar and is one of the most memorable Thanksgiving Day performances of all time.
• 2012: "The Butt Fumble": In a game between the New York Jets and the New England Patriots, Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez infamously ran into the backside of his own offensive lineman, fumbled the ball, and allowed the Patriots to score a touchdown. This play quickly became a Thanksgiving Day blooper reel staple.

These are just a few examples of the many memorable moments that have occurred in NFL Thanksgiving Day games. These games have a way of producing the unexpected, adding to the excitement and drama of the holiday.

The Impact of Thanksgiving Day Games: More Than Just Football

The impact of NFL Thanksgiving Day games extends beyond the field. These games have a significant cultural and economic impact, bringing people together and providing a boost to the league's popularity.

Culturally, Thanksgiving Day games have become an integral part of the American holiday tradition. Families and friends gather to watch the games, creating shared experiences and memories. The games provide a sense of community and connection, as fans across the country tune in to watch the same events. The tradition of Thanksgiving Day football helps to reinforce the holiday as a time for togetherness and celebration.

Economically, Thanksgiving Day games are a major revenue generator for the NFL. The games draw huge television audiences, leading to high advertising rates. The league also benefits from increased merchandise sales and ticket revenue. The Thanksgiving Day games provide a significant boost to the NFL's bottom line, contributing to the league's overall financial success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of NFL Thanksgiving Day Games

As the NFL continues to evolve, the tradition of Thanksgiving Day games is likely to remain a constant. The league recognizes the importance of these games to fans and the overall success of the NFL. While the specific matchups may change from year to year, the core tradition of football on Thanksgiving is expected to endure.

In the future, we may see the NFL experiment with different game times or formats for Thanksgiving Day games. The league is always looking for ways to innovate and improve the viewing experience for fans. However, the fundamental elements of Thanksgiving Day football – the Detroit Lions, the Dallas Cowboys, and a full day of exciting games – are likely to remain in place.

Conclusion: Thanksgiving and Football – A Perfect Pairing

In conclusion, NFL Thanksgiving Day games are more than just football games; they are a cherished tradition that brings people together and enhances the holiday experience. The combination of family, food, and football is a winning formula, and the NFL has successfully tapped into this tradition for decades. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or a casual observer, Thanksgiving Day games offer something for everyone.

So, as you gather with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, be sure to tune in to the NFL action. Cheer on your favorite team, enjoy the excitement of the games, and celebrate the tradition of Thanksgiving Day football. It's a perfect way to add some extra fun and excitement to your holiday celebration.

For more information on NFL Thanksgiving Day games, visit the official NFL website.