Thanksgiving Football Traditions: Lions, Cowboys, and a New Era
As autumn leaves carpet American neighborhoods and families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, another tradition equally anticipated unfolds on the gridiron—Thanksgiving Day football. A hallmark of this distinctly American holiday, football games on Thanksgiving are as ingrained in the celebration as turkey and cranberry sauce. At the core of this tradition are the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys, each with their storied history and dedication to the Thanksgiving stage.
The Detroit Lions: Pioneers of the Thanksgiving Game
The Detroit Lions have been a Thanksgiving fixture since 1934, making them pioneers in establishing the tradition of holiday games. The brainchild of then Lions owner George A. Richards, the Thanksgiving game was a brilliant marketing strategy to draw attention to the newly relocated team. It was an idea that stuck, despite a brief hiatus from 1939 to 1944 due to World War II.
Throughout various lineup changes and seasons of varying success, the Lions have steadfastly taken the field on Thanksgiving Day. To date, they have participated in 84 Thanksgiving games, recording 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties. This year, in the grand tradition, the Lions will compete against the Chicago Bears at 12:30 p.m. ET, reuniting fans with one of the NFL’s longest-standing rivalries.
The Dallas Cowboys: A Thanksgiving Staple Since 1966
While the Lions set the stage, the Dallas Cowboys amplified the Thanksgiving spirit when they joined the fray in 1966. The decision by then-General Manager Tex Schramm was ambitiously strategic, capitalizing on the holiday's vast audience to elevate the Cowboys brand nationally. With just two breaks in 1975 and 1977, the Cowboys have been dependable players in these holiday matchups for over five decades.
Over the course of 56 games, the Cowboys have accrued an impressive record of 33 wins, 22 losses, and one tie—statistics that reflect their tenacity and enduring appeal. This Thanksgiving, they will host the New York Giants in what promises to be a gripping encounter at 4:30 p.m. ET.
New Traditions Under the Lights
While the Lions and Cowboys ushered in the age of Thanksgiving football, the tradition has evolved with the inclusion of a primetime evening game. Introduced in 2006, this game extends the sports entertainment into the night, offering fans another opportunity to immerse themselves in NFL action after the day’s festivities.
This year’s evening match features the Miami Dolphins squaring off against the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET. It's a clash that adds a new dimension to the holiday schedule, expanding the Thanksgiving lineup beyond its classic roots.
A Look Ahead
Each Thanksgiving, fans are reminded of the historical moments and iconic players who have contributed to making these games a timeless tradition. Yet, history continues to evolve with new lineups and rivalries shaping the future of Thanksgiving football. Notably absent from these holiday classics are the Jacksonville Jaguars, who have yet to appear on Thanksgiving. Their absence stands out in the diverse lineup of NFL teams that have taken part over the years.
Despite the inevitable ebbs and flows of team performances, Thanksgiving football remains a celebrated ritual, cherished for its connection with American culture and the enduring memories it creates. Whether it’s witnessing a historic play, celebrating a nail-biter victory, or simply enjoying the game with a slice of pumpkin pie, the tradition of Thanksgiving Day football is a thread that connects generations of fans.
As families gather this Thanksgiving, television screens will undoubtedly light up with the vivid colors of team jerseys, the roar of crowd-fueled adrenaline, and the unmistakable echo of the referee's whistle—an enduring testament to a tradition that shows no sign of waning.