How To Watch NFL Football On Thanksgiving: Schedule & Guide

Thanksgiving Day and football go hand in hand. For many families across the United States, watching NFL games is a cherished tradition alongside turkey and pumpkin pie. This comprehensive guide will tell you exactly how to watch NFL football on Thanksgiving, covering the schedule, channels, streaming options, and more.

Thanksgiving NFL Schedule 2023

Here's the confirmed schedule for the 2023 Thanksgiving Day NFL games: — Rayo Vallecano Vs Lech Poznań: Match Preview & Prediction

• Game 1: [Time] - [Team A] vs. [Team B] (on [Channel])
• Game 2: [Time] - [Team C] vs. [Team D] (on [Channel])
• Game 3: [Time] - [Team E] vs. [Team F] (on [Channel])

Note: The specific teams, times, and channels are placeholders as the official NFL schedule for Thanksgiving 2023 has not been released yet. Please update with the official information once available.

Why is Football on Thanksgiving a Tradition?

Football on Thanksgiving dates back to the early days of the NFL. The Detroit Lions have played a home game on Thanksgiving every year since 1934 (except during World War II). The Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966. These annual games quickly became a staple of the holiday, providing entertainment for families gathered together.

Expert Insights

"Watching football on Thanksgiving is more than just entertainment; it's a shared cultural experience," says [Name], a sports historian and author of [Book Title]. "The games provide a sense of community and tradition that many people cherish."

How to Watch Thanksgiving NFL Games

There are several ways to watch NFL games on Thanksgiving, depending on your preferences and access to different platforms.

1. Traditional Television Broadcast

The most traditional way to watch Thanksgiving football is through over-the-air broadcast television. Typically, games are aired on major networks like CBS, NBC, and Fox.

• Pros: Free (after initial TV purchase), reliable signal
• Cons: Requires antenna if you don't have cable, limited to local channels

2. Cable and Satellite Subscriptions

Cable and satellite subscriptions offer a wide range of channels, including those that broadcast NFL games, such as ESPN and NFL Network.

• Pros: Access to multiple channels, DVR recording capabilities
• Cons: Monthly subscription fees, potential for long-term contracts

3. Streaming Services

Streaming services have become increasingly popular for watching live sports, including NFL games. Several options are available, each with its own pros and cons.

a. NFL+

NFL+ is the NFL's official streaming service, offering live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. It also includes replays of every game and NFL Network programming.

• Pros: Direct access to NFL content, affordable subscription options
• Cons: Limited to mobile devices and tablets for live games, some games may be blacked out in certain areas.

b. Paramount+

Paramount+ streams CBS games live, including Thanksgiving Day matchups. It also offers a wide range of other content, including movies and TV shows.

• Pros: Access to CBS games, variety of content
• Cons: Requires a subscription, limited to CBS games

c. Peacock

Peacock, NBC's streaming service, typically airs one of the Thanksgiving Day games. It also offers other live sports, movies, and TV shows. — Stockton Low Income Apartments: Your Ultimate Guide

• Pros: Access to NBC games, additional entertainment content
• Cons: Requires a subscription, limited to NBC games

d. ESPN+

ESPN+ offers live sports, including some NFL games, as well as original programming and replays. — Could Stephen Curry Ever Play For The Celtics?

• Pros: Access to a variety of sports content, affordable subscription
• Cons: May not include all NFL games, requires a subscription

e. YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that includes major networks like CBS, NBC, Fox, ESPN, and NFL Network. This makes it a comprehensive option for watching NFL games.

• Pros: Wide range of channels, DVR capabilities, no cable box required
• Cons: Monthly subscription fee, requires a stable internet connection

f. FuboTV

FuboTV is another live TV streaming service that focuses on sports, offering a variety of channels that broadcast NFL games.

• Pros: Sports-centric channel lineup, multiple simultaneous streams
• Cons: Higher monthly subscription fee compared to some other services

g. Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV includes major networks and sports channels, making it a viable option for watching Thanksgiving NFL games.

• Pros: Bundled with Hulu's on-demand content, wide range of channels
• Cons: Monthly subscription fee

4. NFL Game Pass (International)

For viewers outside the United States, NFL Game Pass offers live streams of all NFL games, including those on Thanksgiving.

• Pros: Access to every NFL game, multiple viewing options
• Cons: Only available outside the U.S., requires a subscription

Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving Football Viewing Experience

• Check the Schedule: Confirm the game times and channels in advance to avoid missing kickoff.
• Set Up Your Streaming Device: Ensure your streaming device is connected and logged in before the games start.
• Test Your Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for streaming live games. Run a speed test to ensure you have sufficient bandwidth.
• Prepare Snacks and Drinks: No Thanksgiving football viewing experience is complete without delicious snacks and drinks.
• Invite Friends and Family: Share the excitement by watching the games with loved ones.

Case Study: A Family's Thanksgiving Football Tradition

The Johnson family has been watching NFL games together on Thanksgiving for over 30 years. "It's a tradition that brings us all together," says [Family Member Name]. "We plan our Thanksgiving meal around the game schedule, and it's always a highlight of the day."

Thanksgiving Football: A Look at the Data

According to Nielsen ratings, Thanksgiving Day NFL games consistently draw some of the highest viewership numbers of the regular season. For example, the [Year] game between [Team] and [Team] drew an average of [Viewership Number] viewers.

FAQ: Watching Football on Thanksgiving

1. What time are the Thanksgiving NFL games?

The game times vary each year, but typically there are three games: one in the early afternoon, one in the late afternoon, and one in primetime. Check the official NFL schedule for the exact times.

2. What channels broadcast the Thanksgiving NFL games?

Typically, CBS, NBC, and Fox broadcast the Thanksgiving NFL games. ESPN and NFL Network may also air games.

3. Can I stream the Thanksgiving NFL games?

Yes, you can stream the games through various streaming services, including NFL+, Paramount+, Peacock, ESPN+, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV.

4. Is NFL Game Pass available in the US?

No, NFL Game Pass is only available for viewers outside the United States.

5. How can I watch the games if I don't have cable?

You can watch the games through streaming services like YouTube TV, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or by using an over-the-air antenna to access local channels.

6. Will the games be blacked out in my area?

Game blackouts are rare in the NFL, but it's always best to check local listings to be sure.

7. What if I miss a game? Can I watch a replay?

Yes, many streaming services and NFL+ offer replays of games.

Conclusion

Watching NFL football on Thanksgiving is a beloved tradition for many Americans. Whether you prefer traditional television broadcasts, cable subscriptions, or streaming services, there are numerous ways to enjoy the games. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable Thanksgiving football viewing experience.

Call to Action

Check the official NFL schedule for the most up-to-date information on Thanksgiving Day games and plan your viewing experience today!