The NFL Thanksgiving tradition is a cherished part of American culture, dating back to 1920. Every year, fans gather around their televisions or head to the stadiums to enjoy thrilling matchups, delicious food, and the festive spirit of the holiday. This year is no different, as the league prepares for another exciting day of football on Thanksgiving.
The Thanksgiving Matchups
This year, the Thanksgiving slate features three highly anticipated games. The action kicks off with the Detroit Lions facing off against the Chicago Bears at 12:30 PM ET. Following that, the New York Giants will take on the Dallas Cowboys at 4:30 PM ET, and the day wraps up with the Miami Dolphins visiting the Green Bay Packers at 8:30 PM ET. Each game promises to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.
A Longstanding Tradition
The Detroit Lions have proudly hosted a Thanksgiving game every year since 1934, while the Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966. These games have become synonymous with the holiday, drawing in millions of viewers and filling stadiums with passionate fans. The Cowboys have only missed two Thanksgiving games in their history, once in 1975 and again in 1977, showcasing their commitment to this beloved tradition.
Halftime Shows: A Festive Addition
Since 1997, halftime shows have added an extra layer of entertainment to the Thanksgiving games. This tradition began when the Salvation Army launched its Christmas Kettle campaign during the halftime of the Dallas game, featuring performances from major artists. This year, fans can look forward to exciting performances that will keep the festive spirit alive.
Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions
The opening game will feature rising country star and rapper Shaboozey. Known for his hit song "Start a Riot," Shaboozey has gained significant attention and recently collaborated with Beyoncé on her latest album, Cowboy Carter. He will perform during halftime, providing a lively soundtrack to the matchup between the Lions and Bears. With the Bears seeking an upset against a strong Lions team, fans are in for an offensive showdown.
New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys
As the day progresses, the Cowboys will host the Giants at AT&T Stadium. During halftime, fans can enjoy a performance by Lainey Wilson, an American country singer-songwriter who gained fame with her hit "Things a Man Oughta Know." The Cowboys have dominated the Giants in recent matchups, winning nine of their last ten encounters. With the Giants struggling, this game could be a crucial moment for both teams.
Miami Dolphins at Green Bay Packers
The final game of the day features the Dolphins visiting the Packers, and halftime will see a performance by Lindsey Stirling. The talented violinist, who rose to fame on America’s Got Talent, has captivated audiences with her unique blend of classical and contemporary music. As both teams come off victories, fans can expect a tightly contested game to close out Thanksgiving.
What to Watch For
With such a rich history and exciting matchups, Thanksgiving Day in the NFL is a must-watch for fans. The games not only feature talented athletes but also showcase the festive spirit of the holiday. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
TV Schedule for Thanksgiving Games
Here’s a quick look at the Thanksgiving Day schedule:
- Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions – 12:30 PM ET – CBS, Paramount+
- New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys – 4:30 PM ET – Fox
- Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers – 8:30 PM ET – NBC
As fans prepare for the holiday, the excitement surrounding the NFL Thanksgiving games continues to grow. With thrilling matchups, entertaining halftime performances, and the spirit of togetherness, this Thanksgiving promises to be a memorable day for football lovers across the nation. So gather your friends and family, get your snacks ready, and settle in for a fantastic day of NFL action!
