Lions-Packers Thanksgiving Game Set for 1 p.m. Kickoff – Here’s Why
The NFL’s Thanksgiving tradition is set to continue with an exciting matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Lions. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff on Thursday, a shift from the previous 12:30 p.m. start time.
Lions-Packers 1 p.m. Kickoff Timing Change
This timing adjustment reflects an effort to align with the NFL’s traditional Sunday kickoff windows. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned the change during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” in April. The Lions will aim to attract more viewers during this adjusted time slot.
Thanksgiving Day Game Schedule
- 1 p.m. ET: Packers vs. Lions
- 4:30 p.m. ET: Cowboys vs. Chiefs
- 8:20 p.m. ET: Bengals vs. Ravens
Potential Viewership Records
Mike North, the NFL’s Vice President of Broadcast Planning, has indicated that this year’s Thanksgiving viewership could achieve historic levels. He believes that the NFL might witness its two most-watched regular-season games ever on this holiday.
The Lions have been hosting their Thanksgiving game since 1934. The Dallas Cowboys began their tradition a few decades later. Historically, the viewership for the Lions’ early game trailed that of the Cowboys’ evening game.
Viewership Trends
In 2021, the Cowboys vs. Raiders game attracted 40.8 million viewers, while the Lions vs. Bears game drew 28.2 million. However, this gap has been narrowing over the years. Last year, the Cowboys vs. Giants game had 38.8 million viewers, closely followed by the Lions vs. Bears at 37.5 million.
The Lions’ strategic transition to a later kickoff aims to capitalize on viewer engagement. NFL Executive Vice President Hans Schroeder noted that data indicated a greater number of fans would be at home during the afternoon, making it an opportune time for broadcasting.
Implications for the NFL Standings
Both the Lions and Packers have more than just Thanksgiving bragging rights at stake. The winner of this game will move up to second place in the NFC North, trailing the 8-3 Bears, who will face the Philadelphia Eagles on Black Friday.
