Why Cowboys Always Play On Thanksgiving: The Real Story

Thanksgiving Day in the United States is synonymous with family gatherings, delicious feasts, and, of course, football. Among the time-honored traditions of this holiday, one stands out for football fans: the Dallas Cowboys playing a home game. But why do the Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving? This tradition, deeply woven into the fabric of American culture, has a fascinating history and several strategic reasons behind it. Let's dive into the story of how this tradition began and why it continues to this day.

The Origin of the Thanksgiving Tradition

The tradition of the Dallas Cowboys playing on Thanksgiving Day dates back to 1966. Before this, the Detroit Lions had already established themselves as Thanksgiving Day regulars, starting their tradition in 1934. However, in the mid-1960s, the Cowboys, under the leadership of General Manager Tex Schramm, sought a way to increase their visibility and fan base. Schramm approached the NFL with the idea of having the Cowboys play on Thanksgiving, and the league agreed. At the time, the Cowboys were a relatively young team, having joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1960. Playing on Thanksgiving presented a golden opportunity to showcase the team to a national audience.

The inaugural Thanksgiving game for the Cowboys in 1966 was against the Minnesota Vikings. The game was a resounding success, drawing a large television audience and helping to solidify the Cowboys' image as "America's Team." The Cowboys won the game 27-14, further cementing the tradition. The positive reception from fans and the media encouraged the NFL and the Cowboys to continue the tradition in subsequent years. This initial success laid the foundation for what has become a cherished part of the NFL calendar.

The decision to have the Cowboys play on Thanksgiving was not just about increasing visibility; it was also a strategic move to create a unique identity for the team. By associating themselves with a major holiday, the Cowboys were able to build a strong brand and cultivate a loyal fan base. The Thanksgiving game became an annual event that fans looked forward to, helping to establish the Cowboys as a prominent team in the NFL. This tradition has not only benefited the Cowboys but has also become an integral part of the Thanksgiving Day experience for millions of Americans.

The Strategic Rationale Behind the Tradition

Several strategic reasons contribute to the continuation of the Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving tradition. First and foremost, the increased visibility that comes with playing on a national holiday is invaluable. Thanksgiving Day is a day when families gather around their televisions, and the NFL games provide a perfect form of entertainment. Playing during this time slot guarantees a large audience, which translates to higher television ratings and increased revenue for the team and the league. This exposure helps to attract new fans and reinforces the Cowboys' brand as a national team.

Another key reason is the competitive advantage it offers. The Cowboys playing at home on Thanksgiving creates a unique atmosphere at AT&T Stadium. The energy from the crowd and the sense of occasion can provide a boost to the team's performance. Additionally, the Thanksgiving game is often a crucial matchup in the NFL schedule, with playoff implications on the line. Playing at home in front of a passionate crowd can give the Cowboys an edge over their opponents. This home-field advantage is a significant factor in the team's continued success on Thanksgiving Day.

Moreover, the tradition helps to drive merchandise sales and ticket revenue. The Thanksgiving game is one of the most highly anticipated games of the season, and fans are willing to pay a premium to attend. The demand for tickets and merchandise related to the game is exceptionally high, providing a significant boost to the Cowboys' financial bottom line. The game also serves as a showcase for the team's brand, attracting sponsors and advertisers who want to be associated with the Cowboys and the Thanksgiving Day tradition. This financial benefit is a crucial factor in the team's long-term success and stability.

The Impact on the NFL and American Culture

The Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving tradition has had a significant impact on the NFL and American culture as a whole. The tradition has helped to popularize the NFL and make it an integral part of the Thanksgiving holiday. The Cowboys' game, along with the Detroit Lions' game, has become a staple of Thanksgiving Day viewing, with millions of Americans tuning in to watch the games. This widespread viewership has helped to increase the NFL's popularity and make it the most-watched sports league in the United States.

The tradition has also created a sense of continuity and nostalgia for fans. For many families, watching the Cowboys play on Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations. The game provides a shared experience that brings families together and creates lasting memories. This sense of tradition and nostalgia is a powerful force that helps to keep fans engaged and invested in the team and the NFL.

Furthermore, the Thanksgiving Day games provide a platform for charitable initiatives. The Cowboys and the NFL often use the Thanksgiving Day game as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for various charitable causes. This helps to give back to the community and reinforce the positive impact of the NFL on society. The charitable aspect of the Thanksgiving Day games adds another layer of meaning to the tradition, making it more than just a sporting event. It becomes an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of giving and community.

Memorable Thanksgiving Day Games

Over the years, the Dallas Cowboys have played in numerous memorable Thanksgiving Day games. One of the most iconic games was in 1998 against the Minnesota Vikings, when rookie wide receiver Randy Moss had a breakout performance, catching three touchdowns and leading the Vikings to a decisive victory. This game is remembered for Moss's electrifying performance and the Vikings' dominant showing. The game highlighted the unpredictable nature of football and the excitement that Thanksgiving Day games can bring.

Another memorable game was in 1993 against the Miami Dolphins, when a rare snowstorm hit Dallas, creating a winter wonderland at Texas Stadium. The game was filled with drama, as the Dolphins attempted a game-winning field goal in the final seconds, only for Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett to infamously slip and touch the ball, making it a live ball and ultimately costing the Dolphins the game. This game is remembered for its bizarre ending and the challenging weather conditions that added to the drama.

In 2016, the Cowboys faced their division rivals, the Washington Redskins, in a crucial Thanksgiving Day matchup. The game was a hard-fought battle, with both teams trading blows throughout. The Cowboys ultimately emerged victorious, solidifying their position as a top team in the NFC. This game showcased the intensity of divisional rivalries and the importance of Thanksgiving Day games in the NFL playoff picture. These memorable games have contributed to the lore and legacy of the Cowboys' Thanksgiving tradition.

The Future of the Thanksgiving Tradition

Looking ahead, the tradition of the Dallas Cowboys playing on Thanksgiving Day seems secure. The tradition is deeply ingrained in the NFL's schedule and in the hearts of football fans. The benefits of playing on Thanksgiving, including increased visibility, competitive advantage, and financial gains, are too significant to ignore. The NFL and the Cowboys are likely to continue the tradition for many years to come, ensuring that Thanksgiving Day remains synonymous with Cowboys football.

However, the NFL is always evolving, and there may be some changes to the Thanksgiving Day schedule in the future. The league has experimented with adding a third game to the Thanksgiving Day lineup in recent years, and this trend may continue. The addition of more games could potentially dilute the significance of the Cowboys' game, but it is more likely that it will simply add to the overall Thanksgiving Day football experience. The NFL's ability to adapt and innovate will ensure that the Thanksgiving Day tradition remains relevant and exciting for fans.

In conclusion, the Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving tradition is a unique and enduring part of American culture. The tradition began as a strategic move to increase the team's visibility and has evolved into a cherished holiday ritual for millions of fans. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day games provide a blend of football excitement, family tradition, and charitable giving, making it a truly special event. As long as the NFL continues to thrive, the Cowboys are likely to remain a fixture on the Thanksgiving Day schedule, ensuring that the tradition continues for generations to come.

For further information on the NFL and its history, you can visit the official NFL website at NFL.com.