Football’s Strong Ties to Thanksgiving: A Historical Perspective

Thanksgiving and football share a historic bond in American culture. The National Football League (NFL) has featured games on this festive day since the 1920s, with the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys leading the celebrations.

Origins of Thanksgiving Football

The tradition began in 1934 when the Lions, a new team facing attendance challenges, decided to host a game on Thanksgiving Day. Owner George Richards cleverly arranged to broadcast the matchup nationwide, resulting in a sold-out crowd and the establishment of a lasting tradition.

The Cowboys Join the Tradition

In 1966, the Dallas Cowboys sought to enhance their growing fanbase. General manager Tex Schramm proposed a Thanksgiving game that successfully elevated the team’s national profile. Since then, the Cowboys have remained a staple of Thanksgiving football, apart from a few years in the 1970s.

A Full Day of Football

Currently, Thanksgiving features a full slate of NFL games. The Lions typically host an early game, followed by the Cowboys in the late afternoon. Since 2006, a prime-time matchup has been included, providing fans with an entire day dedicated to football.

Key Matchups for This Year’s Thanksgiving Games

• Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers: An NFC North divisional matchup
• Kansas City Chiefs vs. Dallas Cowboys: Patrick Mahomes’ Thanksgiving debut
• Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals: A highly anticipated return for Joe Burrow

The Cultural Impact of Thanksgiving Football

Thanksgiving football has featured iconic broadcasting personalities, notably John Madden and Pat Summerall. Together, they covered 20 Thanksgiving games over two decades. Madden famously introduced the “turducken” concept during broadcasts, combining the flavors of turkey, chicken, and duck.

Traditions Surrounding the Game

Madden initiated the tradition of awarding a turkey leg to standout players in 1989, a ritual that continues today. This year, even Tom Brady participated, expressing surprise and delight at the unique dish.

Thanksgiving football symbolizes more than just a game; it represents cherished traditions and shared moments among families across the nation. From the Lions and Cowboys to delightful feasts, this holiday celebration intertwines sports with the joy of family gatherings.