Thanksgiving Day Football: A Gridiron Tradition

Thanksgiving Day is a cherished holiday in the United States, celebrated for its traditions of family gatherings, delicious feasts, and, of course, football. The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back to the late 19th century and has since become an integral part of the holiday for many Americans. In this article, we'll delve into the history of Thanksgiving football games, explore the teams that have become synonymous with this tradition, and discuss why this gridiron showdown remains a beloved part of the holiday season.

The Historical Roots of Thanksgiving Football

The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving can be traced back to the 1870s, when college football teams began scheduling games on this holiday. The Intercollegiate Football Association, the precursor to the NCAA, played a significant role in popularizing Thanksgiving Day football. These early games were often regional rivalries, drawing large crowds and adding to the festive atmosphere of the holiday. As the popularity of football grew, so did the tradition of Thanksgiving Day games, eventually making its way into the professional ranks.

One of the earliest and most significant Thanksgiving Day football traditions began with the Yale University and Princeton University rivalry. These two college football powerhouses met annually on Thanksgiving Day, drawing thousands of spectators and setting the stage for future Thanksgiving Day classics. The games were not just sporting events; they were social gatherings, with families and friends coming together to cheer on their favorite teams. This tradition helped establish the connection between football and Thanksgiving in the American consciousness.

The transition from college football to professional football on Thanksgiving was a gradual one, but it marked a significant milestone in the holiday's sporting history. As the NFL began to gain popularity in the early 20th century, the league recognized the potential of Thanksgiving Day games to attract a large audience. The first NFL Thanksgiving game was played in 1920, featuring a matchup between the Akron Pros and the Canton Bulldogs. This game was a success, and it paved the way for the NFL to make Thanksgiving Day football a permanent fixture on its schedule.

The NFL's Enduring Thanksgiving Tradition

The National Football League (NFL) has played a pivotal role in solidifying the tradition of Thanksgiving Day football. The league's commitment to scheduling games on this holiday has made it a staple for football fans across the country. Two teams, in particular, the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys, have become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football, hosting games almost every year since the mid-20th century.

The Detroit Lions' Thanksgiving Day tradition dates back to 1934, when the team's owner, George A. Richards, sought to increase the team's visibility and popularity. He scheduled a Thanksgiving Day game against the Chicago Bears, and the game was a huge success, drawing a large crowd and generating significant media attention. Since then, the Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving Day game almost every year, with only a few exceptions during World War II. The Lions' Thanksgiving Day game has become a beloved tradition for fans in Detroit and across the country, even though the team's record on Thanksgiving is less than stellar.

The Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day tradition began in 1966, and it has been equally impactful in shaping the holiday's football landscape. The Cowboys, under the leadership of legendary coach Tom Landry, quickly established themselves as a Thanksgiving Day fixture. Their games have often been among the most-watched of the NFL season, and the Cowboys have built a strong Thanksgiving Day record over the years. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day game has become a key part of the holiday tradition in Dallas, drawing fans from all over the region.

In addition to the Lions and Cowboys, the NFL typically schedules a third Thanksgiving Day game, often featuring teams with compelling rivalries or playoff implications. This third game adds to the excitement of the day, giving fans a full slate of football action to enjoy while they celebrate the holiday. The NFL's Thanksgiving Day games have become some of the most highly anticipated matchups of the regular season, drawing large television audiences and creating memorable moments for players and fans alike.

Memorable Thanksgiving Day Games and Moments

Over the years, there have been countless memorable Thanksgiving Day football games and moments. These games have produced dramatic finishes, incredible performances, and lasting memories for fans. From legendary plays to unexpected upsets, Thanksgiving Day football has a rich history of providing thrilling entertainment.

One classic Thanksgiving Day game that stands out is the 1993 matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the Dallas Cowboys. In a snowy contest in Dallas, the Dolphins were trailing late in the fourth quarter when they attempted a game-winning field goal. The kick was blocked, and Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett infamously touched the ball while it was still live, allowing the Dolphins to recover the ball and kick another field goal to win the game. This play, known simply as