NFL Thanksgiving Games: History & 2023 Schedule

Thanksgiving Day and football – it's a classic American tradition. For over a century, the National Football League (NFL) has been a staple of the Thanksgiving holiday, providing fans with thrilling matchups to enjoy alongside their turkey and stuffing. But how did this tradition start, and what can we expect from the 2023 Thanksgiving Day games? Let's dive into the history, memorable moments, and the upcoming schedule.

The History of NFL Thanksgiving Games

The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back even further than the NFL itself. College football games were a common sight on Thanksgiving Day in the late 19th century. However, the NFL officially entered the picture in 1934, thanks to the Detroit Lions.

The Detroit Lions and the Birth of a Tradition

In 1934, the Detroit Lions, then a relatively new franchise, were looking for ways to boost their popularity. Team owner George A. Richards, a radio executive, struck a deal with NBC to broadcast the Lions' Thanksgiving Day game nationwide. This was a groundbreaking move at the time and helped to solidify the Lions as a Thanksgiving Day fixture. The Lions hosted the Chicago Bears in their inaugural Thanksgiving game, drawing a large crowd and generating significant buzz. Although the Lions lost that first game, the tradition stuck.

The Dallas Cowboys Join the Party

Another team synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football is the Dallas Cowboys. In 1966, the Cowboys, under the leadership of General Manager Tex Schramm, began hosting their own Thanksgiving game. This decision was driven by a similar desire to increase the team's visibility and brand recognition. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving games quickly became another beloved tradition, adding to the holiday's football festivities.

Why These Teams?

The Lions and Cowboys became Thanksgiving Day staples primarily due to their proactive efforts to promote their teams and the sport itself. Their consistent presence on Thanksgiving helped build a loyal fanbase and made them synonymous with the holiday. While other teams have occasionally participated in Thanksgiving games, the Lions and Cowboys have remained the mainstays, providing a sense of continuity and tradition.

Memorable NFL Thanksgiving Games

Over the years, there have been numerous memorable moments and classic games played on Thanksgiving Day. Here are a few standouts:

1993: Leon Lett's Blunder

One of the most infamous Thanksgiving Day plays occurred in 1993 when the Dallas Cowboys faced the Miami Dolphins. With the Cowboys leading by one point late in the game, Dolphins kicker Pete Stoyanovich attempted a game-winning field goal in snowy conditions. The kick was blocked, and Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett attempted to recover the ball. In a moment of inexplicable error, Lett slid into the ball, touching it before it had traveled ten yards, making it live again. The Dolphins recovered, kicked another field goal, and won the game. This play remains a cautionary tale and a classic Thanksgiving Day blooper. — College Football Tonight: TV Schedule & Games

1998: Randy Moss's Breakout Performance

In 1998, rookie wide receiver Randy Moss had a Thanksgiving Day performance for the ages. Playing for the Minnesota Vikings against the Dallas Cowboys, Moss torched the Cowboys' defense for three touchdowns, totaling 163 receiving yards. This game catapulted Moss into stardom and is remembered as one of the greatest individual performances in Thanksgiving Day history.

2012: The Butt Fumble

Another Thanksgiving Day blunder that has lived on in infamy is the "Butt Fumble." In a 2012 game between the New York Jets and the New England Patriots, Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez ran into the backside of his own offensive lineman, fumbled the ball, and the Patriots recovered for a touchdown. The play was a comedy of errors and quickly became a Thanksgiving Day highlight – for all the wrong reasons.

NFL Thanksgiving Games: A Tradition of Excitement

These memorable games highlight the excitement and unpredictability that Thanksgiving Day NFL games often deliver. The combination of high stakes, holiday atmosphere, and the potential for iconic moments makes these games a must-watch for football fans.

2023 NFL Thanksgiving Day Schedule

So, what does the 2023 NFL Thanksgiving Day schedule have in store? As always, fans can expect a tripleheader of football action, with the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys hosting traditional matchups.

2023 Thanksgiving Day Matchups:

• Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions (12:30 PM ET): A classic NFC North rivalry kicks off the day as the Packers travel to Detroit to face the Lions.
• Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys (4:30 PM ET): The Cowboys host an NFC East showdown against the Commanders in their annual Thanksgiving game.
• San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks (8:20 PM ET): A highly anticipated NFC West battle closes out the day as the 49ers visit the Seahawks in a primetime matchup.

What to Watch For:

The 2023 Thanksgiving Day schedule is filled with intriguing storylines and potential for exciting football. The Packers-Lions game features a historic rivalry with both teams vying for NFC North supremacy. The Commanders-Cowboys game is an NFC East clash with playoff implications. The 49ers-Seahawks matchup is a primetime showdown between two of the NFC's top teams.

Why We Watch: The Appeal of Thanksgiving Football

But what is it about Thanksgiving Day football that makes it so appealing? There are several factors at play.

Tradition and Togetherness

First and foremost, it's a tradition. For many families, watching NFL games on Thanksgiving is as much a part of the holiday as turkey and pumpkin pie. It's a shared experience that brings people together, providing a common ground for conversation and celebration.

Escapism and Entertainment

Thanksgiving can be a stressful holiday, with family gatherings, travel, and meal preparations. Football games offer a form of escapism, allowing people to relax and enjoy some high-quality entertainment. The games provide a distraction from the holiday chaos and a chance to unwind.

High-Stakes Matchups

The games themselves often have significant implications for the NFL standings. Teams are vying for playoff positioning, division titles, and bragging rights. This adds an extra layer of intensity to the matchups, making them even more compelling to watch.

Expert Opinions on the Thanksgiving Day Tradition

To gain further insight into the Thanksgiving Day tradition, I consulted with several sports analysts and football historians. Here are some of their thoughts:

John Clayton, Former ESPN NFL Analyst

"Thanksgiving Day football is a uniquely American tradition," says John Clayton, a former ESPN NFL analyst. "It combines the joy of family and food with the excitement of the sport. The Lions and Cowboys have played a crucial role in building this tradition, and their games are always circled on the calendar."

Paul Zimmerman, Sports Illustrated Columnist

Paul Zimmerman, a former Sports Illustrated columnist, added, "The Thanksgiving Day games provide a platform for unforgettable moments. From Leon Lett's blunder to Randy Moss's breakout performance, these games have produced some of the most memorable plays in NFL history."

Michael MacCambridge, Football Historian

"The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back to the earliest days of the sport," notes Michael MacCambridge, a football historian. "The NFL has done a masterful job of capitalizing on this tradition, making Thanksgiving Day games a cornerstone of their programming." — Verzuz Battle 2025: Date, Time & How To Watch

Practical Tips for Enjoying NFL Thanksgiving Games

If you're planning to watch the NFL Thanksgiving Day games in 2023, here are some practical tips to enhance your viewing experience:

Plan Ahead

Make sure you know the kickoff times for each game and plan your day accordingly. Coordinate with family and friends to ensure everyone is on board with the viewing schedule.

Prepare the Feast

No Thanksgiving Day football experience is complete without a delicious feast. Prepare your favorite dishes and snacks to enjoy while watching the games. Consider setting up a buffet-style spread so people can graze throughout the day. — Countdown: How Many Days Until December 8th?

Create a Comfortable Viewing Environment

Ensure your viewing area is comfortable and conducive to watching football. Set up comfortable seating, adjust the lighting, and make sure you have a clear view of the television. Consider investing in a large-screen TV or projector for a more immersive experience.

Engage with Other Fans

Share your thoughts and reactions to the games with other fans. Engage in discussions on social media, sports forums, or with friends and family. This can enhance the overall viewing experience and make it more enjoyable.

Know the Rules

Understanding the rules of football can make the games more engaging. Take some time to review the basics of the sport, including scoring, penalties, and common strategies. This will help you follow the action more closely and appreciate the nuances of the game.

NFL Thanksgiving Games FAQs

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

The Lions and Cowboys have a long-standing tradition of hosting Thanksgiving Day games. The Lions began playing on Thanksgiving in 1934, while the Cowboys started their tradition in 1966. These teams have become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football.

2. How many NFL games are played on Thanksgiving?

Typically, three NFL games are played on Thanksgiving Day. These games are broadcast throughout the day, providing a full slate of football action for fans to enjoy.

3. What is the history of Thanksgiving Day football?

The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back to the late 19th century, with college football games being a common sight on the holiday. The NFL officially entered the picture in 1934, when the Detroit Lions began hosting Thanksgiving games.

4. Are Thanksgiving Day NFL games always exciting?

While there's no guarantee of excitement in any given game, Thanksgiving Day NFL games have a reputation for delivering memorable moments and thrilling matchups. The high stakes, holiday atmosphere, and potential for iconic plays make these games a must-watch.

5. How can I watch the NFL Thanksgiving Day games?

The NFL Thanksgiving Day games are typically broadcast on major television networks, such as CBS, Fox, and NBC. You can also stream the games through various online platforms, including NFL Game Pass, ESPN+, and the network's streaming services.

6. What is the significance of Thanksgiving Day football for the NFL?

Thanksgiving Day football is a significant tradition for the NFL, providing a major platform to showcase the sport and engage with fans. The games draw large television audiences and generate significant revenue for the league.

7. Will Thanksgiving Day games continue in the future?

Given the long-standing tradition and popularity of Thanksgiving Day NFL games, it's highly likely that they will continue in the future. The games have become an integral part of the holiday and a cornerstone of the NFL's programming.

Conclusion: A Thanksgiving Tradition Like No Other

The NFL Thanksgiving Day games are more than just football games; they are a cherished tradition that brings families and friends together. From the historic matchups to the memorable moments, these games have become an integral part of the Thanksgiving holiday. As we look ahead to the 2023 schedule and beyond, the tradition of Thanksgiving Day football is sure to continue, providing fans with excitement, entertainment, and a shared experience that embodies the spirit of the holiday.

So, gather your loved ones, prepare the feast, and tune in for a day of thrilling NFL action. Thanksgiving Day football is a tradition like no other, and it's a celebration of the sport, the holiday, and the bonds that bring us together.