Rob Gronkowski will have Thanksgiving off after it was revealed he will be absent from Fox’s NFL coverage. The former tight end will not be on screens this Thursday when the network shows its annual holiday game, marking a notable absence for fans who have come to expect his lively presence during the festivities.
Fox has released its entire Week 13 coverage plans, and while Gronkowski will not be part of the Thanksgiving lineup, he is set to return for the following week. This Thursday, the network will showcase the highly anticipated matchup between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at 4:30 PM ET. Tom Brady and Kevin Burkhardt will be on the call from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, ensuring that viewers will still have a star-studded commentary team to guide them through the action.
In a special studio show that precedes the game, the Fox NFL Sunday crew will gather at 4 PM ET. Curt Menefee will host the program, featuring familiar faces like Terry Bradshaw, Michael Strahan, Howie Long, Jimmy Johnson, and Jay Glazer. However, Gronkowski will not be part of this coverage, allowing him to relax and enjoy the holiday like the rest of the nation.
While Gronkowski’s absence from the Thanksgiving game is notable, he will be back in action for the Fox NFL Sunday plans for Week 13. He is set to replace Jimmy Johnson, who has apparently been given the weekend off. Interestingly, Bradshaw recently noted that Gronkowski and Johnson rarely seem to appear on the same show, leading to some playful banter among the crew.
In a previous episode, Bradshaw made a comment about Gronkowski filling in for Johnson, to which Gronkowski quickly responded, "Wow, yeah, I’m part of the show, Terry." This light-hearted exchange showcased the camaraderie among the Fox NFL Sunday team, as Strahan jumped in to defend Gronkowski, emphasizing his regular presence on the show.
Gronkowski’s absence from the Thanksgiving coverage is not without its reasons. He missed Fox NFL Sunday in Week 12, but it was revealed that he had another engagement, which had nothing to do with Bradshaw’s playful jab. Gronkowski was actually scheduled to appear in New Hampshire for the opening of a Dick’s Sporting Goods store, an event that had been announced earlier in the month.
As fans gear up for the Thanksgiving matchup, they can still look forward to a thrilling day of football. Fox will also have five games across two windows on Sunday, ensuring that the excitement of the NFL continues well into the weekend.
What Makes Thanksgiving Special for NFL Fans?
Thanksgiving Day has become synonymous with NFL football, a tradition that fans eagerly anticipate each year. The combination of family gatherings, delicious food, and thrilling games creates a unique atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holiday. But what makes this day so special for fans?
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Tradition: The NFL has been playing games on Thanksgiving since 1920, making it a cherished tradition for generations of fans. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have hosted games on this day for decades, further solidifying its place in American culture.
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Excitement: Thanksgiving games often feature intense rivalries and high-stakes matchups. This year’s clash between the Giants and Cowboys promises to deliver heart-pounding action, as both teams fight for playoff positioning.
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Family Bonding: For many, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, and what better way to bond than over a thrilling football game? Fans share their passion for the sport, creating lasting memories together.
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Food and Football: The combination of turkey, stuffing, and football is a match made in heaven. Many fans enjoy a feast while cheering on their favorite teams, making the experience all the more enjoyable.
- Community Spirit: The holiday spirit extends beyond individual households, as fans across the country unite in their love for the game. Whether watching from home or attending a game, the sense of community is palpable.
Looking Ahead to Week 13
As we look forward to Week 13, Gronkowski will be back in the studio, ready to bring his unique flair to the Fox NFL Sunday crew. His presence adds an element of fun and excitement to the show, and fans are eager to see what he brings to the table.
With the NFL season heating up, every game becomes crucial as teams vie for playoff spots. The stakes are high, and the energy is electric. Fans can expect insightful analysis, entertaining banter, and, of course, plenty of football highlights from Gronkowski and the crew.
In summary, while Gronkowski may be taking a break this Thanksgiving, his return to the Fox NFL Sunday lineup for Week 13 is sure to be a highlight for fans. As the NFL continues to captivate audiences across the nation, the excitement of the season remains in full swing. So, whether you’re enjoying turkey or touchdowns, this Thanksgiving promises to be a memorable one for football fans everywhere!
