The Tradition Continues: Thanksgiving Football in America
Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States are synonymous with family gatherings, festive meals, and the unmistakable excitement of American football. This enduring tradition sees some of the sport’s storied franchises take the field, a custom that has become as much a part of the holiday as turkey and pumpkin pie. At the forefront of this tradition are the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys, two teams whose association with Thanksgiving football has stood the test of time.
The Detroit Lions: A Legacy Since 1934
The Detroit Lions hold the distinction of being the trailblazers of Thanksgiving Day football, a legacy that dates back to 1934. This year marks their 85th appearance in what has become a cherished annual event. The Lions’ introduction of football to the holiday festivities captured the nation’s imagination, setting the stage for an enduring tradition. Despite experiencing a hiatus from 1939 to 1944 due to World War II, the Lions have cemented their status as Thanksgiving regulars.
Over the years, the Lions have amassed a record of 37 wins, 45 losses, and two ties in Thanksgiving games. This year, they are set to face off against the Chicago Bears, reigniting a long-standing rivalry with kick-off scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET. Fans will look to the Lions to build on their Thanksgiving legacy and add to their victories.
The Dallas Cowboys: Establishing a Thanksgiving Institution
The Dallas Cowboys entered the Thanksgiving fray in 1966, marking the beginning of another storied chapter in the holiday’s football history. Like the Lions, the Cowboys have woven themselves into the fabric of Thanksgiving, playing 56 times with a commendable record of 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie.
Exceptionally, the Cowboys did not participate in Thanksgiving games in 1975 and 1977. However, these brief absences did little to diminish their Thanksgiving tradition, which remains strong to this day. This year, the Cowboys are set to host the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET, promising fans a thrilling match-up between these NFC East division rivals.
Prime Time and a New Era: Thanksgiving Night Games
In 2006, the NFL expanded the Thanksgiving football slate by adding an evening game, thus enhancing the day’s lineup with a primetime fixture. This year’s spotlight belongs to the Miami Dolphins, who will clash with the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET. The introduction of this night game has allowed newer stories to emerge, offering teams outside the traditional pairings an opportunity to join the Thanksgiving lexicon.
While teams like the Dolphins now have the stage to shine, there are still NFL franchises that await their turn. Notably, the Jacksonville Jaguars have yet to make a Thanksgiving Day appearance, a prospect that fans hope will be part of future holiday celebrations.
The Ongoing Charm of Thanksgiving Football
Thanksgiving football has grown into more than just a series of games; it represents the quintessential blend of sport, tradition, and celebration. With each passing year, new layers are added to the narrative, interweaving team histories with the collective memories of fans across the country.
As the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys prepare to take the field once again, they do so with a commitment to honor the past while contributing to the rich tapestry of Thanksgiving football. This cherished tradition unites families and friends, enlivening the holiday with moments of athletic brilliance and community spirit, a testament to the enduring power of American football on Thanksgiving Day.