NFL Teams Always Playing On Thanksgiving? Find Out!

Okay, let's dive into which NFL teams are Thanksgiving Day regulars! For many football fans, Thanksgiving isn't complete without watching some gridiron action. But have you ever wondered which teams you can pretty much count on seeing each year? Well, there are two franchises with a super long tradition of playing on Turkey Day: the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys. Let's get into why that is, and a bit about the history!

The Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys are the two teams that traditionally play every Thanksgiving. This tradition dates back to the early days of the NFL and has become a staple of the holiday. Here's a closer look at each team:

Detroit Lions: A Thanksgiving Tradition Since 1934

The Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game every year since 1934, with the exception of the years 1939-1944 due to World War II. This tradition was started by Lions owner George A. Richards as a way to boost the team's profile and attract fans. It worked! Thanksgiving games quickly became a popular event, and the Lions became synonymous with football on the holiday.

• Why Detroit? George A. Richards was a radio executive. He used his connections to broadcast the games nationally, making it a huge event.
• Impact: This cemented the Lions' place in Thanksgiving tradition and helped grow their fanbase.

Memorable Lions Thanksgiving Games

Over the years, the Lions have been part of some truly memorable Thanksgiving matchups. Here are a few examples: — National City, CA Zip Codes: Complete List

• 1962 vs. Green Bay Packers: The Lions dominated the defending NFL champion Packers 26-14, solidifying their Thanksgiving Day reputation.
• 1998 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: A controversial overtime coin toss decision led to a Steelers victory, adding drama to the holiday game.
• 2013 vs. Green Bay Packers: The Lions secured a 40-10 victory over their division rivals.

Dallas Cowboys: "America's Team" on Thanksgiving Since 1966

The Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day tradition in 1966. General manager Tex Schramm thought it would be a good way to get the team more national attention. Just like with the Lions, it paid off big time. The Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving every year since, except for 1975 and 1977.

• Why Dallas? The Cowboys were growing in popularity, and the Thanksgiving game helped to solidify their image as "America's Team."
• Impact: This cemented the Cowboys' national presence and turned Thanksgiving into a huge day for the franchise.

Memorable Cowboys Thanksgiving Games

Like the Lions, the Cowboys have had their share of memorable Thanksgiving games:

• 1994 vs. Miami Dolphins: Leon Lett's infamous blunder cost the Cowboys a win in a snowy Thanksgiving game.
• 1998 vs. Minnesota Vikings: A high-scoring affair saw the Vikings defeat the Cowboys 46-36.
• 2016 vs. Washington Redskins: A crucial division matchup saw the Cowboys win a close game 31-26.

Other Thanksgiving Day Games

While the Lions and Cowboys are Thanksgiving mainstays, the NFL also schedules a third game each year. This game usually features teams in contention for the playoffs, adding even more excitement to the holiday.

Rotating Matchups

The third Thanksgiving game changes every year and often features teams in important divisional or conference matchups.

Notable Third Games

Some memorable third Thanksgiving games include:

• 2006: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: An overtime thriller that saw the Broncos win 24-23.
• 2012: New England Patriots vs. New York Jets: The Patriots dominated the Jets 49-19 in a lopsided Thanksgiving affair.
• 2018: New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons: A high-scoring NFC South battle won by the Saints 31-17.

The Impact of Thanksgiving Day Games

Thanksgiving Day games have a significant impact on the NFL and its fans. They provide a huge platform for teams to showcase their talent and reach a massive audience.

Ratings and Viewership

Thanksgiving Day games consistently draw some of the highest television ratings of the NFL season. Millions of families tune in to watch the games, making it a prime opportunity for the league and its broadcast partners.

• Example: In 2022, the three Thanksgiving Day games averaged over 30 million viewers.
• Source: Nielsen ratings data.

Cultural Significance

Beyond the ratings, Thanksgiving Day games have become a cultural touchstone in the United States. They're a part of the holiday tradition for many families, and the games often create lasting memories.

• Fan traditions: Many families plan their Thanksgiving meals around the games.
• Social impact: The games provide a shared experience and talking point for fans across the country.

Economic Impact

Thanksgiving Day games also have a significant economic impact on the cities and teams involved. The games generate revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and advertising.

• Local economy: The games bring visitors and spending to the host cities.
• Team revenue: The increased exposure and revenue help teams invest in their operations.

The Future of Thanksgiving Day Games

The NFL has shown no signs of changing its Thanksgiving Day tradition. The games remain incredibly popular, and they provide a valuable platform for the league and its teams.

Potential Changes

While the tradition is likely to continue, there could be some changes in the future. The NFL has explored the possibility of adding more international games on Thanksgiving, and there could be adjustments to the schedule to accommodate different teams and matchups.

The Enduring Tradition

Despite any potential changes, the core tradition of Thanksgiving Day football is expected to endure. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys will likely continue to play on the holiday for many years to come, and the third game will continue to provide additional excitement for fans.

FAQ About NFL Thanksgiving Games

1. Why do the Lions and Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving?

The Detroit Lions have played on Thanksgiving since 1934, a tradition started by owner George A. Richards to boost the team's profile. The Dallas Cowboys joined in 1966, with the game helping to solidify their image as "America's Team." Both teams' Thanksgiving games have become a staple of the holiday.

2. When did the Dallas Cowboys start playing on Thanksgiving?

The Dallas Cowboys started playing on Thanksgiving in 1966. The team's general manager, Tex Schramm, thought it would be a good way to gain national attention for the franchise. Except for 1975 and 1977, they have played every Thanksgiving since.

3. Has any team besides the Lions and Cowboys played every Thanksgiving?

No, the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys are the only two teams that traditionally play every Thanksgiving. The NFL schedules a third game each year that rotates between other teams.

4. How are the other teams chosen for the Thanksgiving game?

The NFL typically selects teams for the third Thanksgiving game based on factors such as their competitiveness, rivalry matchups, and potential for exciting games. Teams in contention for the playoffs are often chosen. — Used Cars For Sale In Rochester, MN | Find Deals Now

5. What is the highest-scoring Thanksgiving NFL game?

One of the highest-scoring Thanksgiving NFL games was in 1998 when the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Dallas Cowboys 46-36, resulting in a combined score of 82 points.

6. Do Thanksgiving Day games have an impact on playoff contention?

Yes, Thanksgiving Day games can significantly impact playoff contention, especially if they involve divisional rivals or teams with similar records. A win on Thanksgiving can provide a crucial boost in the standings.

7. Where can I find the Thanksgiving NFL schedule?

You can find the Thanksgiving NFL schedule on the official NFL website, as well as on major sports networks like ESPN, Fox Sports, and CBS Sports. These sources provide the most up-to-date information on game times and matchups. — Donald Trump's Legacy: A Deep Dive

The tradition of the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys playing on Thanksgiving is a cherished part of NFL history. These games provide excitement, entertainment, and a sense of shared experience for fans across the country. The NFL's Thanksgiving Day tradition is here to stay, continuing to bring families and friends together to celebrate the holiday with football. So, this Thanksgiving, as you settle in to watch the games, remember you're partaking in a tradition that's been going strong for nearly a century. Enjoy the games, the food, and the company!