Why Do Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys Traditionally Play on Thanksgiving?

The Thanksgiving Day football tradition featuring the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys has a rich history. This annual event captivates fans across the nation and has become a staple of holiday celebrations.

Detroit Lions: The Tradition Begins

The Lions first played on Thanksgiving Day in 1934, marking the start of a long-standing tradition. Originally founded as the Portsmouth Spartans, the team moved to Detroit that same year. Their inaugural game on Thanksgiving was a strategic move by owner George A. Richards to attract fans during a time when the local population was more drawn to baseball, particularly the Detroit Tigers.

Richards, who also owned radio station WJR, played a vital role in promoting the game. His efforts led to NBC broadcasting the matchup nationwide. The Lions faced off against the NFL champion Chicago Bears at the University of Detroit field, which sold out to an audience of 26,000. This success paved the way for the Lions to continue playing on Thanksgiving, a tradition that has persisted, with today’s matchups often featuring the Green Bay Packers.

Dallas Cowboys: A Growing Legacy

The Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving tradition much later. Their first game on this holiday occurred in 1966, a few years after the team was established in 1960. At that time, the Cowboys were struggling to gain traction in the league and attract a fanbase. General manager Tex Schramm proposed the idea of a Thanksgiving game to boost visibility for the team.

This first Thanksgiving game against the Cleveland Browns was a resounding success, attracting a record crowd of 80,259 and ending in a 26-14 victory for Dallas. Many fans consider this game the beginning of the Cowboys’ rise to prominence, often referring to them as “America’s team.” The Cowboys have missed playing on Thanksgiving only twice since then, in 1975 and 1977, when scheduling issues arose. They resumed their Thanksgiving Day games in 1978, establishing a permanent place in this beloved tradition.

Key Facts About the Thanksgiving Games

• Detroit Lions
  • First Thanksgiving game: 1934
  • Owner: George A. Richards
  • First opponent: Chicago Bears
  • Current rival: Green Bay Packers
• Dallas Cowboys
  • First Thanksgiving game: 1966
  • Initial opponent: Cleveland Browns
  • Record crowd: 80,259
  • Current opponent: Kansas City Chiefs (2023)

This Thanksgiving, as fans gather to watch the traditional games, they celebrate the enduring legacy of both the Lions and the Cowboys. These matches not only showcase football talent but also honor a rich history that connects millions of fans to the holiday.