The Thanksgiving Tradition in American Football
Thanksgiving Day in the United States is synonymous with family gatherings, feasting on turkey, and, of course, the much-anticipated tradition of American football. Two teams have historically been the custodians of this Thanksgiving Day tradition: the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys. The significance of football on this holiday cannot be understated, with a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of American sports culture.
Detroit Lions: Pioneers of Thanksgiving Football
The inception of football games on Thanksgiving can be traced back to the Detroit Lions, who started the tradition in 1934. Designed as a means to garner attention and boost attendance during the team's early years in Detroit, the Thanksgiving games quickly became a staple for fans and families. Over the decades, the Detroit Lions have played a pivotal role in fostering this tradition, despite a hiatus from 1939 to 1944 due to World War II. Their loyalty to Thanksgiving Day is reflected in the 84 games they've hosted, achieving a record of 37 wins, 45 losses, and 2 ties.
This year, the Lions are set to face the Chicago Bears in an early afternoon matchup at 12:30 p.m. ET. The historic rivalry between these two teams adds an extra layer of anticipation for fans who eagerly await another chapter written on the field.
The Dallas Cowboys: A Thanksgiving Fixture
The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day tradition in 1966, making their mark as another permanent fixture on this national holiday. Known for their broad appeal and extensive fan base, the Cowboys have enjoyed significant success on Thanksgiving, playing 56 games and boasting 33 victories, 22 losses, and a single tie.
Despite a couple of absences from the holiday stage in 1975 and 1977, the Cowboys quickly reasserted their place as a Thanksgiving Day staple. This year, the Cowboys will host the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m. ET, promising an exciting continuation of one of the NFL's most storied rivalries.
The Evening Game: A New Tradition
In 2006, the landscape of Thanksgiving football expanded with the introduction of an evening game. This addition provided fans with a full day of professional football, rounding out the holiday festivities. The primetime slot offers another layer of excitement, showcasing marquee matchups under the lights.
This year’s primetime clash features the Miami Dolphins taking on the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. ET. As this newer tradition continues to grow, it offers fans yet another reason to keep their eyes glued to the screen well into the evening.
The Outliers
Not every team has experienced the thrill of playing on Thanksgiving. Notably, the Jacksonville Jaguars have yet to grace the field on this holiday, waiting for their first opportunity to partake in this illustrious tradition. With the NFL's rotating schedule and continued embrace of all teams as part of its diverse landscape, it seems only a matter of time before every franchise enjoys the Thanksgiving spotlight.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving Day football captures the imagination of the American public, bringing together fans, families, and friends in a shared celebration of sport and tradition. Whether the legacy of the Detroit Lions, the storied history of the Dallas Cowboys, or the newer dynamics of the evening game, there's no shortage of compelling narratives for fans to enjoy year after year. As teams take to the field, they each contribute another chapter to a rich football tapestry that has become quintessentially American.