Thanksgiving NFL Games: Schedule, History, And Best Moments

Nov 23, 2025 by Alex Johnson 60 views

Thanksgiving Day is not just about turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie; it's also a huge day for football fans! The NFL Thanksgiving games are a tradition as cherished as the holiday meal itself. Since the league's early days, football has been a staple of Thanksgiving, providing thrilling action and unforgettable moments for generations of fans. This article dives into the rich history of Thanksgiving NFL games, explores the schedule, and highlights some of the best moments that have made this holiday tradition so special. So, grab your plate, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and let's explore the world of Thanksgiving NFL football!

A Tradition of Football on Thanksgiving

The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back to the late 19th century, long before the NFL was even established. College football games were the original Turkey Day classics, with rivalries like Yale vs. Princeton drawing massive crowds. The NFL, formed in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, quickly embraced the Thanksgiving tradition. In 1934, the Detroit Lions solidified the tradition by playing their first Thanksgiving game, a contest that has continued annually ever since, with very few exceptions. The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day lineup in 1966, adding another layer to the holiday football feast.

The Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football. Their annual games provide a consistent anchor to the holiday schedule. These teams playing on Thanksgiving offer a unique blend of tradition and competition, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement for fans. Over the years, countless memorable moments have unfolded on the Thanksgiving gridiron, etching themselves into the annals of NFL history. From iconic plays to stunning upsets, the Thanksgiving NFL games have consistently delivered drama and excitement. The tradition has evolved over the decades, with the addition of a primetime game in recent years, giving fans even more football to enjoy on their holiday. This prime time game often features some of the league's top teams, further elevating the Thanksgiving Day viewing experience. The atmosphere surrounding these games is electric, with the energy of the holiday blending seamlessly with the passion for football. Players often talk about the special feeling of playing on Thanksgiving, knowing that millions of fans are watching and sharing the experience with their families. The combination of tradition, competition, and the holiday spirit makes Thanksgiving NFL games a truly unique and cherished part of American sports culture.

Thanksgiving NFL Games: The Schedule

The NFL Thanksgiving schedule typically features three games: an early afternoon game hosted by the Detroit Lions, a late afternoon game hosted by the Dallas Cowboys, and a primetime game that varies each year. This tripleheader provides a full day of football action, ensuring that fans have plenty to watch while enjoying their holiday feast. The matchups are often selected to showcase compelling rivalries or feature top teams in the league, maximizing the excitement and viewership. The anticipation builds throughout the day, starting with the early kickoff in Detroit and culminating with the primetime clash under the lights. Each game offers its own unique storylines and potential for memorable moments, making it a day that football fans eagerly anticipate each year.

Here's a typical breakdown of the Thanksgiving NFL schedule:

Early Afternoon Game: The Detroit Lions traditionally host this game, kicking off around 12:30 PM ET. This game is a staple of the Thanksgiving tradition, with the Lions facing a different opponent each year. The early game sets the tone for the day, offering a mix of history and competition. The Lions' consistent presence on Thanksgiving has created a strong association between the team and the holiday, making their game a must-watch for many fans. While the Lions haven't always had the most successful seasons, their Thanksgiving games are always a highlight, and the atmosphere at Ford Field is electric.
Late Afternoon Game: The Dallas Cowboys host the second game of the day, usually kicking off around 4:30 PM ET. Like the Lions, the Cowboys have been a Thanksgiving fixture for decades, providing another consistent presence in the holiday lineup. The Cowboys' game often draws a large television audience, thanks to their national popularity and the tradition of watching them play on Thanksgiving. The game is a major event in Dallas, with fans filling AT&T Stadium to cheer on their team. The Cowboys' Thanksgiving games have seen some of the most iconic moments in NFL history, adding to the legacy of the holiday tradition.
Primetime Game: The final game of the day is a primetime matchup, usually kicking off around 8:20 PM ET. This game features a different matchup each year, often showcasing some of the league's top teams and most exciting players. The primetime game provides a fitting finale to the day's football festivities, offering a high-stakes contest under the lights. The NFL strategically selects the primetime game to maximize viewership, often choosing matchups with significant playoff implications or featuring compelling rivalries. The primetime slot allows for a national audience to tune in and enjoy the game, making it a major event for both fans and the league.

This schedule ensures that football fans have a full slate of games to enjoy throughout Thanksgiving Day, from the early afternoon kickoff to the primetime finale. The combination of traditional matchups and exciting new contests makes the NFL Thanksgiving schedule a highlight of the football season.

Memorable Moments in Thanksgiving NFL Games History

Over the years, Thanksgiving NFL games have provided countless memorable moments that have become part of football lore. From stunning plays to unexpected upsets, these games have delivered drama and excitement that fans remember for years to come. Here are a few of the most iconic moments in Thanksgiving NFL history:

O.J. Simpson's Dominance (1976): In 1976, O.J. Simpson had a Thanksgiving performance for the ages, rushing for a whopping 273 yards against the Detroit Lions. This remains one of the most dominant individual performances in NFL history and a Thanksgiving Day record that still stands. Simpson's incredible speed and power were on full display, as he shredded the Lions' defense and led the Bills to a convincing victory. The game is a testament to Simpson's Hall of Fame talent and a reminder of the excitement that can unfold on Thanksgiving Day.
Leon Lett's Blunder (1993): One of the most infamous moments in Thanksgiving NFL history occurred in 1993 when Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett made a critical error against the Miami Dolphins. With the Cowboys leading by one point in the final seconds, the Dolphins attempted a field goal in snowy conditions. The kick was blocked, and Lett inexplicably tried to recover the ball, only to slip and allow the Dolphins to recover. Miami then kicked the game-winning field goal, stunning the Cowboys and their fans. Lett's blunder is a cautionary tale about the importance of playing through the whistle and a reminder that anything can happen in football.
Randy Moss's Three-Touchdown Outburst (1998): In 1998, rookie receiver Randy Moss put on a show for the Minnesota Vikings against the Dallas Cowboys, catching three touchdowns in a dominant performance. Moss's incredible athleticism and receiving skills were on full display, as he torched the Cowboys' secondary and led the Vikings to a decisive victory. This game was a breakout performance for Moss, solidifying his status as one of the league's most exciting young players. His Thanksgiving performance remains one of the most memorable individual performances in Vikings history.
The "Butt Fumble" (2012): A more recent addition to Thanksgiving lore is the infamous "Butt Fumble" by New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez in 2012. During a game against the New England Patriots, Sanchez ran into the backside of his own offensive lineman, fumbled the ball, and the Patriots recovered for a touchdown. The play quickly went viral and became a symbol of the Jets' struggles that season. While it's a moment Jets fans would rather forget, the "Butt Fumble" has become a lasting part of Thanksgiving NFL games history, serving as a reminder that even the most bizarre plays can occur on the holiday stage.
Cowboys Comeback (2016): In 2016, the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders engaged in a memorable Thanksgiving game that featured a thrilling comeback. Washington jumped out to an early lead, but the Cowboys, led by rookie quarterback Dak Prescott and rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott, rallied to win the game in the final minutes. The game was a showcase of the Cowboys' young talent and their resilience, further solidifying their status as one of the league's top teams. The comeback victory was a signature moment for the Cowboys and a reminder of the excitement that Thanksgiving NFL games can deliver.

These moments, along with countless others, have contributed to the rich history of Thanksgiving NFL games. They showcase the drama, excitement, and unexpected twists that make football such a compelling sport. As the tradition continues, fans can look forward to more memorable moments being added to the Thanksgiving NFL legacy.

The Enduring Appeal of Thanksgiving NFL Games

The enduring appeal of Thanksgiving NFL games lies in the combination of tradition, competition, and the holiday spirit. The games have become a fixture of Thanksgiving celebrations, providing a shared experience for families and friends across the country. The tradition of watching football on Thanksgiving is deeply ingrained in American culture, with many families planning their holiday gatherings around the games. The games offer a sense of continuity and connection to the past, as fans remember past Thanksgiving classics and create new memories with their loved ones.

The competitive nature of the games also adds to their appeal. The NFL often schedules compelling matchups for Thanksgiving, featuring top teams, intense rivalries, and potential playoff implications. The games are played with a heightened sense of urgency and excitement, as players know they are performing on a national stage with millions of viewers watching. The potential for memorable moments and unexpected outcomes keeps fans on the edge of their seats, adding to the drama and excitement of the day.

Of course, the holiday spirit is a crucial element of the Thanksgiving NFL experience. The games provide a welcome distraction from the stresses of holiday travel and meal preparation, allowing fans to relax and enjoy the company of their loved ones. The games also offer a sense of community, as fans across the country gather to watch and cheer on their favorite teams. The combination of food, family, and football creates a festive atmosphere that is unique to Thanksgiving Day. The NFL has also embraced the spirit of the holiday, often incorporating charitable initiatives and community outreach programs into their Thanksgiving celebrations. This further enhances the positive associations with the games and reinforces the sense of giving back during the holiday season.

In conclusion, Thanksgiving NFL games are more than just football games; they are a cherished tradition that brings families and friends together, providing a shared experience of excitement, competition, and holiday cheer. The history of these games is filled with memorable moments, iconic performances, and unexpected twists, making them a highlight of the football season and a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations. As the tradition continues, fans can look forward to more thrilling contests and unforgettable moments on the Thanksgiving gridiron.

For more information about the NFL and Thanksgiving games, visit the official NFL website.