The Thanksgiving Football Tradition: A Time-Honored American Classic

The Thanksgiving Football Tradition: A Time-Honored American Classic

Thanksgiving in the United States is synonymous with several cherished traditions — gathering with family, indulging in a bountiful feast, and for sports enthusiasts, it’s a day devoted to American football. As the turkey roasts and the aroma of pies fill the air, millions of fans tune in to watch the much-anticipated Thanksgiving Day football games.

A Storied Legacy

The tradition of Thanksgiving Day football dates back to 1934, with the Detroit Lions at its heart. It was during the Great Depression that the Lions, in their inaugural season in Detroit, took to the field against the Chicago Bears. The Lions, eager to establish their presence, drew 26,000 fans to the University of Detroit Stadium, setting the stage for a tradition that would captivate generations.

Over the years, the Lions carved their place in Thanksgiving lore. Despite a pause in the series from 1939 to 1944 due to World War II, the Lions have played 84 Thanksgiving games to date. Their journey has been one of peaks and valleys, with a record boasting 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties. This year, the Lions will once again face off against the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET, continuing a rivalry that has been woven into the fabric of football history.

The Cowboys’ Thanksgiving Tradition

While the Detroit Lions pioneered the tradition, the Dallas Cowboys have firmly established themselves as the other hallmark team of Thanksgiving football. In 1966, the Cowboys stepped into the Thanksgiving spotlight, quickly becoming a fixture in the holiday's sporting festivities. With just two missed appearances in 1975 and 1977, the Cowboys have participated in 56 Thanksgiving games, amassing 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie.

This year, the Dallas faithful will see their team clash with the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET, a match-up sure to be filled with the intensity and drama that fans have come to expect.

The Evolution of the Thanksgiving Fixture

The football landscape on Thanksgiving Day evolved significantly in 2006 with the introduction of the evening game. This addition expanded the day’s slate, offering fans a full spectrum of action from midday until nighttime. The primetime slot quickly became an arena for showcasing high-stakes matchups and unforgettable moments.

In the 2023 primetime setting, the Miami Dolphins are slated to meet the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET. This game promises to close out the holiday’s gridiron events with competitive flair, as both teams strive to capitalize on the large audience and seize a pivotal victory in their respective seasons.

Thanksgiving Newcomers

Despite the long and rich history of football on Thanksgiving, not all teams have had the opportunity to participate. The Jacksonville Jaguars, for instance, have yet to make an appearance on this celebrated day. As the NFL continues to evolve and expand its scheduling to include more international and special event games, there's hope that newer franchises like the Jaguars may soon find their way into Thanksgiving's illustrious lineup.

As fans settle into their festivities, the Thanksgiving Day games offer more than just sport; they provide a sense of continuity and nostalgia. It’s a time when people across the country can pause to appreciate the shared bonds of sport and tradition. Whether it's the Lions looking to build on their historic rivalry with the Bears or the Cowboys aiming to thrill against the Giants, Thanksgiving football is a reminder of the enduring power of sports to bring people together. In the modern era, with the evening game adding an extra layer of excitement, this tradition continues to flourish, captivating audiences old and new alike.