Thanksgiving Day holds a cherished tradition in the hearts of sports fans across the United States, where family gatherings are often punctuated by the excitement of American football. This festive day invariably features riveting matchups, highlighted by the historic franchises—the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys—whose legacies have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
The Detroit Lions stand as the pioneers of Thanksgiving Day football, having inaugurated this enduring tradition in 1934. Since then, the Lions have become a staple on Thanksgiving, with the exception of a brief hiatus during World War II, from 1939 to 1944. Over the decades, the team has amassed a record of 84 appearances, yielding 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties. This year, the Lions are set to face the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET, adding yet another chapter to their storied history.
The Cowboys Join the Feast
While the Lions laid the groundwork, the Dallas Cowboys cemented their place in this holiday tradition more than three decades later. Beginning their Thanksgiving Day games in 1966, the Cowboys have made the event an integral part of their annual schedule, missing only twice—in 1975 and 1977. With 56 games under their belt, the Cowboys boast a competitive record of 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie. This year, fans will witness the Cowboys take on the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET, continuing their pursuit of Thanksgiving success.
A Nighttime Tradition Emerges
The landscape of Thanksgiving football evolved further in 2006 with the introduction of a primetime game, extending the day's feast of football well into the evening. This year's nighttime spectacle features the Miami Dolphins clashing with the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET, promising an exciting conclusion to the day's proceedings.
Notable Absences and Curiosities
While Thanksgiving Day games are steeped in history and tradition for many teams, some franchises have yet to make their debut on this national stage. Among them are the Jacksonville Jaguars, who remain absent from the Thanksgiving spotlight—a curious footnote in the tapestry of NFL history.
The Thanksgiving tradition serves as a reminder of football's enduring appeal, offering fans across the nation a chance to embrace the camaraderie and competition that defines the spirit of the day. As the nation gathers to give thanks, the annual gridiron battles provide an extra layer of celebration, uniting fans in shared joy and anticipation for the drama that only Thanksgiving Day football can deliver.