Thanksgiving NFL Games: Schedule And History

Thanksgiving Day and football go hand in hand in the United States. Since the early days of the NFL, Thanksgiving has been a showcase for some of the league's most exciting matchups. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the history of Thanksgiving NFL games, provide a schedule of upcoming games, and highlight some of the most memorable moments from past contests.

History of Thanksgiving NFL Games

The tradition of playing NFL games on Thanksgiving dates back to the league's earliest years. The Detroit Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game every year since 1934, while the Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966. These two teams have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football, and their annual games are a holiday staple for many fans.

The NFL's Thanksgiving tradition has its roots in the desire to provide entertainment on a holiday when families gather together. The games offer a welcome distraction from the holiday hustle and bustle, and they provide fans with an opportunity to bond over their shared love of football.

Detroit Lions and Thanksgiving

The Detroit Lions' Thanksgiving tradition began in 1934 when team owner George A. Richards sought to boost the team's popularity. The Lions' first Thanksgiving game was a resounding success, drawing a large crowd and generating significant media attention. Since then, the Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game every year, with only a few exceptions during World War II.

The Lions' Thanksgiving games have become a source of pride for the city of Detroit, and they are a highlight of the NFL calendar. While the Lions haven't always had the most successful teams, their Thanksgiving games are always a special occasion.

Dallas Cowboys and Thanksgiving

The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving tradition in 1966, and they have hosted a game every year since then, with only two exceptions in 1975 and 1977. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving games have become just as much a part of the holiday as the Lions' contests. — Marshawn Kneeland's Cause Of Death: Details

Cowboys owner Clint Murchison Jr. believed that playing on Thanksgiving would help the team gain national exposure, and he was right. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving games have become some of the most-watched NFL games of the year, and they have helped solidify the team's status as a national brand.

Thanksgiving NFL Games Schedule

The NFL typically schedules three games on Thanksgiving Day: an early afternoon game, a late afternoon game, and a prime-time game. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys always host games, while the third game features a variety of teams.

Here is a typical Thanksgiving NFL games schedule:

• Early Afternoon Game: Detroit Lions host an NFC opponent.
• Late Afternoon Game: Dallas Cowboys host an NFC opponent.
• Prime-Time Game: A matchup between two teams from either conference.

The NFL releases the full schedule of Thanksgiving games in the spring, along with the rest of the regular-season schedule. Fans can check the NFL's official website or their favorite sports news outlets for the latest schedule information.

How to Watch Thanksgiving NFL Games

Thanksgiving NFL games are broadcast on national television, making them easily accessible to fans across the country. The early and late afternoon games are typically broadcast on CBS and Fox, respectively, while the prime-time game is usually shown on NBC. — Terell Smith: The Chicago Bears' Rising Star

Fans can also stream Thanksgiving NFL games online through various platforms, including the NFL's official website, the network's websites, and streaming services like NFL+, Paramount+, and Peacock.

Memorable Thanksgiving NFL Game Moments

Over the years, there have been many memorable moments in Thanksgiving NFL games. Here are just a few:

• 1993: Leon Lett's infamous blunder. Cowboys defensive tackle Leon Lett attempted to recover a blocked field goal late in the game, but he fumbled the ball before crossing the goal line, allowing the Miami Dolphins to recover and kick a game-winning field goal.
• 1998: Randy Moss's breakout performance. Vikings rookie wide receiver Randy Moss torched the Cowboys defense for three touchdowns, announcing his arrival as one of the league's top players.
• 2012: RGIII's Thanksgiving debut. Washington Redskins rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III led his team to a thrilling victory over the Cowboys, showcasing his electrifying talent on a national stage.
• 2013: The Butt Fumble. New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez ran into the backside of his own teammate, fumbling the ball and leading to a New England Patriots touchdown in an embarrassing play that quickly went viral.
• 2021: The Raiders beat the Cowboys 36-33 in OT. Las Vegas scored a game-winning touchdown pass to beat the Cowboys in an overtime thriller.

These are just a few of the many memorable moments from Thanksgiving NFL games. The holiday tradition is sure to produce many more thrilling moments in the years to come.

FAQ

Why do the Lions and Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving?

The Detroit Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game every year since 1934, while the Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966. These two teams have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football, and their annual games are a holiday staple for many fans.

How many NFL games are played on Thanksgiving?

The NFL typically schedules three games on Thanksgiving Day: an early afternoon game, a late afternoon game, and a prime-time game.

What channel are the Thanksgiving NFL games on?

Thanksgiving NFL games are broadcast on national television, making them easily accessible to fans across the country. The early and late afternoon games are typically broadcast on CBS and Fox, respectively, while the prime-time game is usually shown on NBC. — Envelope Sizes: A Comprehensive Guide

Can I stream Thanksgiving NFL games?

Yes, fans can stream Thanksgiving NFL games online through various platforms, including the NFL's official website, the network's websites, and streaming services like NFL+, Paramount+, and Peacock.

What is the most memorable Thanksgiving NFL game?

There have been many memorable moments in Thanksgiving NFL games over the years. Some of the most notable include Leon Lett's blunder in 1993, Randy Moss's breakout performance in 1998, and RGIII's Thanksgiving debut in 2012.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving NFL games are a cherished tradition for football fans across the United States. The games provide a welcome distraction from the holiday hustle and bustle, and they offer fans an opportunity to bond over their shared love of the sport. Whether you're watching the Detroit Lions, the Dallas Cowboys, or any other team, Thanksgiving Day football is sure to be a highlight of the holiday season.