Thanksgiving Day Football: Schedule & History

Thanksgiving Day and football go hand in hand in the United States. For many, watching or attending a game is as much a part of the holiday tradition as turkey and pumpkin pie. But how did this tradition start, and what's the schedule for this year's games? This article provides a comprehensive guide to Thanksgiving Day football, covering its history, notable games, and what to expect this year.

A Brief History of Thanksgiving Day Football

The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back to the late 19th century. In the early days, it was common for college teams to schedule games on Thanksgiving Day. — LG 4K Monitor With Ergo Stand Review - Features, Benefits, And Who It's For

The Early Years: College Football Takes Center Stage

• 1876: The first Thanksgiving Day football game was played between Yale and Princeton.
• Late 1800s: College football on Thanksgiving became increasingly popular, with many rivalries playing their annual game on this holiday.
• Early 1900s: As professional football began to emerge, some NFL teams also started playing on Thanksgiving.

The NFL Joins the Tradition

• 1920s: The NFL started scheduling games on Thanksgiving Day to attract fans and boost attendance.
• 1934: The Detroit Lions began their annual Thanksgiving Day game tradition, a key moment in solidifying the NFL's presence on the holiday.
• 1966: The Dallas Cowboys followed suit, adding another annual Thanksgiving Day game.

The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys: Thanksgiving Day Staples

Two teams have become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football: the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys. Both teams have hosted games on Thanksgiving for decades, making it a core part of their franchise identity.

The Detroit Lions' Thanksgiving Tradition

• 1934: The Lions played their first Thanksgiving Day game against the Chicago Bears.
• Annual Tradition: With a few exceptions during World War II, the Lions have played every Thanksgiving since 1934.
• Mixed Record: While the tradition is strong, the Lions' record on Thanksgiving is mixed, providing both memorable wins and disappointing losses for their fans.

The Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving Tradition

• 1966: The Cowboys began hosting Thanksgiving Day games, quickly becoming a staple of the holiday.
• Tom Landry Decision: Head coach Tom Landry believed playing on Thanksgiving would increase the team's national exposure.
• Consistent Presence: The Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving almost every year since 1966, solidifying their place in the holiday tradition.

Notable Thanksgiving Day Games in NFL History

Over the years, many Thanksgiving Day games have become classics, remembered for their exciting plays, close finishes, and significant moments.

Memorable Matchups and Moments

• 1993: Dolphins vs. Cowboys - The Leon Lett Game: A famous blunder by Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett allowed the Dolphins to win a crucial game.
• 1998: Steelers vs. Lions - Jerome Bettis Overtime Coin Toss: A controversial coin toss decision in overtime led to a Steelers victory.
• 2012: Jets vs. Patriots - The Butt Fumble: A Thanksgiving night game remembered for an embarrassing play by Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez.

Key Themes and Patterns in Memorable Games

• Close Games: Many memorable Thanksgiving Day games have been decided by a narrow margin, adding to the excitement.
• Unexpected Upsets: Underdog teams often rise to the occasion on Thanksgiving, creating memorable upsets.
• Individual Performances: Standout performances by individual players frequently define Thanksgiving Day games.

Thanksgiving Day Football Schedule: What to Expect This Year

The NFL typically schedules three games on Thanksgiving Day, providing a full day of football action for fans. The schedule often includes a mix of divisional matchups and high-profile teams.

Typical Game Times and Broadcast Channels

• 12:30 PM ET Game: Usually features the Detroit Lions.
• 4:30 PM ET Game: Often includes the Dallas Cowboys.
• 8:20 PM ET Game: A primetime matchup featuring top teams.
• Broadcast Channels: Games are typically broadcast on major networks such as CBS, Fox, and NBC.

Key Matchups to Watch This Year

• Divisional Rivalries: Games between teams in the same division often have playoff implications and added intensity.
• High-Profile Teams: Matchups featuring teams with Super Bowl aspirations draw significant attention.
• Star Quarterback Showdowns: Games with star quarterbacks facing off are always a highlight.

The Cultural Significance of Thanksgiving Day Football

Thanksgiving Day football has become a significant part of American culture, blending the love of sports with the celebration of family and gratitude.

Blending Family, Food, and Football

• Tradition: For many families, watching football is an essential part of their Thanksgiving tradition.
• Social Gathering: Games provide a shared experience for families and friends to enjoy together.
• Holiday Atmosphere: The festive atmosphere of Thanksgiving enhances the enjoyment of football.

Economic Impact and Media Coverage

• TV Ratings: Thanksgiving Day games consistently draw high TV ratings, making them valuable for networks and advertisers.
• Advertising Revenue: The NFL generates significant revenue from advertising during Thanksgiving Day games.
• Media Attention: The games receive extensive media coverage, further cementing their place in the national spotlight.

FAQ About Thanksgiving Day Football

What is the history of NFL Thanksgiving games?

The NFL started scheduling games on Thanksgiving Day in the 1920s to attract fans and boost attendance. The Detroit Lions began their annual tradition in 1934, followed by the Dallas Cowboys in 1966, solidifying the NFL's presence on the holiday.

Why do the Lions and Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving?

The Detroit Lions began playing on Thanksgiving in 1934 to increase attendance, and the tradition has continued almost every year since. The Dallas Cowboys started their Thanksgiving tradition in 1966, with head coach Tom Landry believing it would increase the team's national exposure. These annual games have become a core part of both franchises' identities.

How many games are played on Thanksgiving Day?

The NFL typically schedules three games on Thanksgiving Day. The first game is usually at 12:30 PM ET, the second at 4:30 PM ET, and the primetime game at 8:20 PM ET. — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce: Are They Engaged?

Which teams have the best records on Thanksgiving?

Historically, the Dallas Cowboys have a strong record on Thanksgiving, while the Detroit Lions have a more mixed record. Specific records can vary each year, so it's best to check current standings and historical data for the most accurate information.

How can I watch the Thanksgiving Day games?

Thanksgiving Day games are typically broadcast on major networks such as CBS, Fox, and NBC. Check your local listings for specific game times and channels. Streaming options are also available through various platforms, including NFL Game Pass and network apps.

What makes Thanksgiving Day games so special?

Thanksgiving Day games blend the love of football with the celebration of family and gratitude. The tradition of watching football on Thanksgiving has become a significant part of American culture, providing a shared experience for families and friends to enjoy together during the holiday. — Tottenham Vs Bournemouth: Epic Premier League Showdown!

Are there any rivalries to watch out for on Thanksgiving?

Yes, divisional rivalries are often featured on Thanksgiving Day due to their playoff implications and added intensity. Additionally, high-profile teams and games featuring star quarterback matchups are always exciting to watch.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Day football is more than just a game; it's a tradition that brings families and friends together. From the historical significance of the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys to the memorable moments and exciting matchups, this holiday has become synonymous with football. As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, be sure to tune in and enjoy the games, celebrating the spirit of the holiday and the thrill of the sport.