Thanksgiving football games have become an integral part of the American holiday experience. Whether it’s the NFL’s annual tradition or a backyard match with friends and family, football on Thanksgiving is a time-honored custom that brings people together. This article will dive into the significance of Thanksgiving football games, the history behind them, and the best matchups to watch this year.
What Are Thanksgiving Football Games?
Thanksgiving football games are a key part of the celebration in the United States, typically occurring on the fourth Thursday of November. The tradition of watching or playing football on Thanksgiving Day has been around for decades, with the most famous games being the National Football League (NFL) matchups. These games provide families with an exciting, action-packed backdrop while they gather to share a meal, watch TV, and enjoy each other’s company.
While the NFL games have garnered the most attention, local schools, colleges, and even families often participate in their own informal football games as well. These amateur and professional games have become an enduring tradition for football fans and non-fans alike, and they continue to be a beloved part of the Thanksgiving festivities.
The History of Thanksgiving Football Games
The first Thanksgiving football game dates back to 1869, when Princeton and Yale played each other. Though the game was far from the high-speed, modern version we know today, it set the stage for the growing popularity of the sport in America. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that football on Thanksgiving became a national tradition.
The NFL’s Thanksgiving Day Games
The NFL Thanksgiving Day games began in 1920, making the sport a staple of the holiday season. However, it was not until 1934 that the tradition of a nationally televised NFL Thanksgiving game began. That year, the Detroit Lions hosted the Chicago Bears in the first-ever Thanksgiving Day broadcast, an event that drew more than 26,000 fans and millions of radio listeners. The Detroit Lions would go on to play on Thanksgiving Day almost every year after that, cementing their role in this yearly tradition.
Today, the NFL schedules three games on Thanksgiving, which are widely anticipated by fans around the world. The Detroit Lions typically host a game in the early afternoon, followed by another game in the late afternoon or evening, and a third game featuring a primetime matchup. These matchups are often reserved for top teams, playoff contenders, or historic rivalries.
Thanksgiving Football Games at the College and High School Levels
In addition to professional football, many college football teams play games on Thanksgiving weekend, with several of them becoming annual traditions. Teams like the Ole Miss Rebels and Mississippi State Bulldogs have participated in the “Egg Bowl” rivalry game on Thanksgiving night for many years. Likewise, the “Iron Bowl” between Alabama and Auburn, while not specifically tied to Thanksgiving Day, is often scheduled around the holiday, making it a major event for football fans.
High school football games, particularly in the U.S., have also embraced the Thanksgiving tradition, with many communities hosting their own rivalry matchups. These games are often a way for local teams to finish their seasons and provide fans with a fun, family-friendly way to enjoy the holiday.
The Best NFL Thanksgiving Football Games to Watch
Thanksgiving football games have featured countless memorable moments over the years. From thrilling finishes to incredible individual performances, the games continue to captivate fans. Below are some of the best matchups in recent years and what makes them so special.
Detroit Lions vs. Dallas Cowboys
The Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys are the two main teams traditionally associated with Thanksgiving Day football. Both teams have been fixtures on the holiday since the 1960s, with the Lions hosting a game every year and the Cowboys playing in the afternoon slot. The rivalry between these two teams, along with their massive fan bases, ensures that their matchups are always highly anticipated.
While the Lions and Cowboys often play under different circumstances, their games on Thanksgiving Day have produced some memorable moments. In 2018, for instance, the Cowboys beat the Washington Football Team 31-23 in a thrilling back-and-forth contest that came down to the wire. With both teams often vying for playoff contention, these games offer high stakes and plenty of drama.
Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears
One of the most storied rivalries in the NFL, the Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears, often takes center stage during Thanksgiving weekend. Although they don’t always play on the actual holiday, when they do, fans are treated to a battle between two of the oldest and most successful franchises in the league.
Games between the Packers and Bears are always emotional affairs, and the teams’ strong history of competition makes any game between them an instant classic. From the Brett Favre era to the Aaron Rodgers era in Green Bay, this rivalry has provided some of the most memorable Thanksgiving Day football moments in recent history.
The 2015 “Cowboys vs. Panthers” Game
In 2015, the undefeated Carolina Panthers faced off against the Dallas Cowboys in a Thanksgiving Day showdown. This game was particularly exciting because it featured the Panthers’ hot streak and the Cowboys’ hopes of making a playoff push. With high-profile players like Cam Newton and Dez Bryant on the field, this game had all the drama of a late-season NFL matchup, yet it was being played on a holiday, adding to the excitement.
The Panthers ultimately won 33-14, improving to 11-0 that season, and the game remains one of the most memorable Thanksgiving matchups of the 21st century.
Thanksgiving Day in the Postseason
While Thanksgiving Day is traditionally associated with regular-season NFL games, there have been some notable Thanksgiving matchups that have taken place during the postseason. Thanksgiving football has a rich history of captivating fans during both the regular season and the playoffs, with teams fighting for playoff spots and championships.
Thanksgiving Football Games Beyond the NFL
While the NFL is the most prominent source of Thanksgiving football games, college football and high school football also play a large role in keeping the tradition alive.
College Football Rivalries
Thanksgiving weekend is home to some of college football’s biggest rivalry games. The “Egg Bowl,” the battle between the Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Ole Miss Rebels, is one of the most anticipated games each year. This rivalry game has been played annually since 1901, making it one of the longest-running traditions in college football.
High School Football Rivalries
Across the country, high school football teams play a significant role in Thanksgiving celebrations. In some towns, the rivalry games that take place on Thanksgiving Day are just as important as the NFL games. In Massachusetts, for example, the “Thanksgiving Day Game” is a high school tradition where rival schools face off in front of passionate local crowds.
The Future of Thanksgiving Football Games
As Thanksgiving football continues to grow in popularity, it’s clear that this holiday tradition is here to stay. Whether you’re watching a high-stakes NFL game, tuning in to a local rivalry, or even joining a backyard pickup game with family and friends, Thanksgiving and football are a perfect match.
The future of Thanksgiving football games looks bright, with more exciting matchups, new rivalries emerging, and the continuation of beloved traditions. The NFL, in particular, is committed to keeping Thanksgiving Day football alive, with the possibility of more teams playing on the holiday and even greater fan engagement.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving football games are a cherished tradition in American culture, combining the excitement of the NFL with the spirit of the holiday season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Detroit Lions or simply enjoy the thrill of a holiday rivalry, Thanksgiving offers something for everyone in the world of football. From professional matchups to local high school games, the Thanksgiving Day football tradition continues to bring families and friends together to celebrate the sport and each other. So, grab your turkey, settle in for the game, and enjoy some of the most exciting football of the year.
