NFL Thanksgiving Games: History, Teams, And Traditions

by Alex Johnson 55 views

Thanksgiving Day and football go hand in hand. For many Americans, settling down to watch NFL Thanksgiving games after enjoying a hearty Thanksgiving feast is a beloved tradition. But how did this tradition start, and which teams are most associated with it? Let's dive into the history, teams, and memorable moments of NFL Thanksgiving games.

A Tradition Begins: The History of NFL Thanksgiving Games

The tradition of NFL Thanksgiving games dates back to the early days of professional football. The National Football League (NFL) recognized the opportunity to capitalize on the holiday's captive audience, and in 1934, the Detroit Lions played their first Thanksgiving game, a tradition that continues to this day. The Lions' owner, George A. Richards, saw the game as a way to boost the team's popularity, and it worked! The game was a huge success, drawing a large crowd and generating significant buzz.

Over the years, other teams joined the Thanksgiving Day lineup, with the Dallas Cowboys establishing their own tradition in 1966. For many years, only these two teams were guaranteed a home game on Thanksgiving. The NFL has since expanded the Thanksgiving schedule to include a primetime game featuring different teams each year. This expansion has allowed more fans to enjoy football on Thanksgiving and has created new rivalries and memorable moments. The NFL Thanksgiving games have become a staple of the holiday, bringing families and friends together to share in the excitement of football. The tradition is so ingrained in American culture that it's hard to imagine Thanksgiving without it.

Key Moments in Thanksgiving NFL History:

  • 1934: The Detroit Lions play their first Thanksgiving game.
  • 1966: The Dallas Cowboys begin their Thanksgiving tradition.
  • 1998: Randy Moss has a legendary performance on Thanksgiving, helping the Vikings beat the Cowboys.
  • Present: The NFL continues to expand the Thanksgiving schedule, featuring different teams each year.

The tradition of NFL Thanksgiving games has evolved over the years, but its essence remains the same: bringing people together to celebrate Thanksgiving with the excitement of football. The games provide a welcome distraction from the stresses of the holiday season and allow families to bond over their shared love of the sport. As the NFL continues to innovate and evolve, the Thanksgiving Day games will undoubtedly remain a cherished tradition for generations to come.

The Teams of Thanksgiving: Lions and Cowboys

When you think of NFL Thanksgiving games, two teams immediately come to mind: the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys. These franchises have been mainstays of the Thanksgiving Day schedule for decades, and their games have become synonymous with the holiday. The Detroit Lions have played on Thanksgiving every year since 1934 (with a few exceptions during World War II), while the Dallas Cowboys have been a fixture since 1966. Their consistent presence on Thanksgiving has cemented their place in NFL history and has made them beloved (or sometimes begrudgingly respected) by football fans across the country. The history of both the Lions and the Cowboys on Thanksgiving is filled with memorable moments, from thrilling victories to heartbreaking defeats. These games have become a part of the teams' identities, and they always bring an extra level of intensity and excitement to the holiday.

Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Games

The Detroit Lions and Thanksgiving are inseparable. Since 1934, with a few breaks during World War II, the Lions have hosted a game every Thanksgiving. This tradition, started by team owner George A. Richards, aimed to boost the team's profile and secure their fanbase. While the Lions haven't always enjoyed success on Thanksgiving, the tradition has persevered, becoming an integral part of the holiday for Lions fans and football enthusiasts alike. The Lions' Thanksgiving games have provided countless memorable moments, from Barry Sanders' incredible runs to last-second victories. Despite their struggles, the Lions always bring their best effort on Thanksgiving, and their games are always worth watching.

Over the years, the Lions have faced a variety of opponents on Thanksgiving, creating a rich tapestry of memorable moments. Some of the most notable include:

  • 1962: The Lions defeat the heavily favored Green Bay Packers, ending their undefeated season.
  • 1998: Barry Sanders rushes for over 100 yards against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
  • 2013: The Lions defeat the Green Bay Packers again, continuing their Thanksgiving dominance over their division rivals.

Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Games

The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving tradition in 1966 and have been a fixture ever since, with only two exceptions. The Cowboys' consistent presence on Thanksgiving has helped solidify their status as