Thanksgiving Day and football go hand in hand. The tradition of watching NFL games while enjoying a delicious Thanksgiving feast is a cherished one for many Americans. But what exactly is the Thanksgiving NFL schedule? This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Thanksgiving Day NFL games, covering the history, the teams, and everything you need to know to plan your holiday viewing.

Thanksgiving NFL Schedule: A Complete Guide

Thanksgiving Day football is a long-standing tradition in the United States. The NFL has been showcasing games on Thanksgiving since the league's inception, providing a day of entertainment and competition alongside the holiday's festive spirit. In this guide, we'll explore the history of Thanksgiving Day football, the typical schedule, the teams that frequently play, and some of the most memorable moments in Thanksgiving NFL history.

History of Thanksgiving Day Football

The tradition of Thanksgiving Day football dates back to the early days of the NFL. The Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have been mainstays of the Thanksgiving Day schedule, creating a historical backdrop for the holiday games. Let's delve into the origins of this tradition and how it has evolved over the years. — Memphis Vs. Tulane: Where To Watch The Game

Early Beginnings

The NFL's Thanksgiving tradition began in 1934 when the Detroit Lions, then a relatively new franchise, played their first Thanksgiving Day game. The Lions' owner, George A. Richards, aimed to boost the team's profile and popularity by scheduling a game on the holiday. The game was a success, drawing a large crowd and establishing a tradition that continues to this day. [Source: NFL.com]

The Dallas Cowboys' Addition

The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day lineup in 1966. General Manager Tex Schramm wanted to increase the team's national exposure, and a Thanksgiving game provided a perfect opportunity. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day games quickly became another fixture of the holiday schedule, solidifying the tradition of two afternoon games.

Expansion of the Schedule

In 2006, the NFL added a third Thanksgiving Day game, typically played in primetime. This addition allowed for more teams to participate in the holiday tradition and provided fans with an evening game to enjoy after their Thanksgiving dinner. The primetime game often features some of the league's top teams, adding to the excitement of the day.

Typical Thanksgiving Day Schedule

The Thanksgiving Day NFL schedule typically includes three games, each with its own kickoff time. The games are strategically scheduled to allow fans to watch football throughout the day, from the early afternoon until the evening. Here's a look at the typical schedule:

Early Afternoon Game

The first game of the day usually kicks off around 12:30 PM ET. This game traditionally features the Detroit Lions hosting an opponent. The Lions have played on Thanksgiving almost every year since 1934, making them a Thanksgiving Day staple.

Late Afternoon Game

The second game kicks off around 4:30 PM ET and features the Dallas Cowboys hosting a game. Like the Lions, the Cowboys have a long-standing Thanksgiving tradition, providing fans with another exciting matchup in the late afternoon.

Primetime Game

The primetime game kicks off around 8:20 PM ET. This game typically features a marquee matchup between two of the league's top teams, providing a thrilling conclusion to the Thanksgiving Day football schedule.

Teams That Frequently Play on Thanksgiving

While the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys are the mainstays of the Thanksgiving Day schedule, other teams frequently participate in the holiday games. Let's take a look at some of the teams that often find themselves playing on Thanksgiving. — Rockford Weather Radar: Live Updates & Forecast

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions have played more Thanksgiving Day games than any other team in the NFL. Their tradition dates back to 1934, and they have hosted a game almost every year since then. While their Thanksgiving record isn't stellar, their presence on the holiday is a constant.

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys have been a Thanksgiving Day fixture since 1966. Their participation in the holiday games has made them one of the most-watched teams on Thanksgiving. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving games are a significant part of their identity and tradition.

Other Frequent Participants

In addition to the Lions and Cowboys, other teams frequently play on Thanksgiving, depending on the schedule and matchups. Teams from their division are often scheduled, as well as teams with large fan bases or compelling storylines. The primetime game often features some of the league's top contenders, ensuring a high-quality matchup.

Memorable Moments in Thanksgiving NFL History

Over the years, Thanksgiving Day NFL games have provided fans with numerous memorable moments. From thrilling finishes to historic performances, here are some of the most notable moments in Thanksgiving NFL history:

Leon Lett's Blunder (1993)

In a 1993 game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, Cowboys defensive tackle Leon Lett made a memorable blunder. With the Cowboys leading 14-13 and just seconds remaining, Lett attempted to recover a blocked field goal but fumbled the ball, allowing the Dolphins to kick a game-winning field goal. This play is one of the most infamous moments in Thanksgiving NFL history. [Source: ESPN]

Randy Moss's Three Touchdowns (1998)

In 1998, rookie wide receiver Randy Moss had a breakout performance for the Minnesota Vikings against the Dallas Cowboys. Moss caught three touchdowns, totaling 163 receiving yards, in a dominant performance that showcased his potential as a future NFL star.

The "Butt Fumble" (2012)

In a 2012 game between the New York Jets and the New England Patriots, Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez had a moment to forget. Sanchez ran into the backside of his teammate, Curtis Painter, fumbled the ball, and the Patriots recovered it for a touchdown. The play, dubbed the "Butt Fumble," became a viral sensation and a lowlight in Jets' history.

Impact on TV Ratings and Viewership

Thanksgiving Day NFL games consistently draw high TV ratings and viewership. The combination of the holiday spirit and the excitement of football creates a perfect recipe for entertainment. The games are among the most-watched NFL games of the season, often ranking among the top-rated television programs of the year. This high viewership also translates to substantial revenue for the league and its broadcasting partners, making Thanksgiving Day a crucial part of the NFL's calendar. The tradition of watching NFL games on Thanksgiving has become deeply ingrained in American culture, ensuring that these games will continue to be a major draw for years to come. [Source: Nielsen Ratings]

Future of Thanksgiving Day NFL Games

The future of Thanksgiving Day NFL games looks bright, with the league committed to maintaining the tradition and continuing to provide fans with exciting matchups on the holiday. While the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys will likely remain fixtures of the schedule, the league may explore ways to innovate and enhance the Thanksgiving Day experience, such as adding new elements to the broadcasts or scheduling different types of games. One thing is certain: Thanksgiving Day football will continue to be a beloved tradition for NFL fans for generations to come.

FAQ Section

What is the history of NFL games on Thanksgiving?

The NFL's Thanksgiving tradition began in 1934 with the Detroit Lions. The Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966, and in 2006, a third primetime game was added.

Which teams play on Thanksgiving every year?

The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys are the mainstays of the Thanksgiving Day schedule, hosting games almost every year.

How many NFL games are played on Thanksgiving?

Typically, three NFL games are played on Thanksgiving: an early afternoon game, a late afternoon game, and a primetime game.

What are some memorable moments in Thanksgiving NFL history?

Memorable moments include Leon Lett's blunder in 1993, Randy Moss's three touchdowns in 1998, and the "Butt Fumble" in 2012.

Why do the Lions and Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving?

The Lions and Cowboys have a long-standing tradition of playing on Thanksgiving, dating back to the early days of the NFL. This tradition helps boost team popularity and provides a consistent holiday attraction.

How do Thanksgiving NFL games impact TV ratings?

Thanksgiving NFL games consistently draw high TV ratings and viewership, making them among the most-watched NFL games of the season.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Day NFL games are a cherished tradition that combines the holiday spirit with the excitement of football. From the early afternoon kickoff to the primetime showdown, Thanksgiving Day provides fans with a full day of entertainment and competition. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have been central figures in this tradition, hosting games for decades and creating memorable moments for fans. As the NFL continues to innovate and evolve, Thanksgiving Day football will remain a beloved part of American culture. So, as you gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, be sure to tune in to the NFL games and enjoy the tradition of Turkey Day football. — Mikel Brown Jr.: Career Highlights And Stats

Call to action: Check your local listings for the most up-to-date Thanksgiving Day NFL schedule and kickoff times. Gear up for a day filled with football, food, and family fun!