Thanksgiving is a special holiday in the United States. It is a time for family, food, and gratitude. But for many Americans, it is also a time for football. Football games on Thanksgiving have become a beloved tradition. Families gather around the TV to watch their favorite teams play. The games bring excitement and joy to the holiday. In this article, we will explore the history of Thanksgiving football, the teams that play, and why this tradition is so important to fans.
The History of Thanksgiving Football
Football on Thanksgiving dates back to the late 19th century. The first Thanksgiving football game was played in 1876. It was a college game between Yale and Princeton. The game was not as popular as it is today, but it marked the beginning of a new tradition.
In the early 20th century, professional football began to grow in popularity. The National Football League (NFL) was founded in 1920. The league saw an opportunity to attract more fans by playing games on Thanksgiving. In 1934, the Detroit Lions played their first Thanksgiving game. The Lions were a new team, and their owner wanted to draw attention to the team. He decided to schedule a game on Thanksgiving Day. The game was a success, and the Lions have played on Thanksgiving almost every year since then.
The Dallas Cowboys also started a Thanksgiving tradition. In 1966, the Cowboys played their first Thanksgiving game. The team’s general manager wanted to increase the team’s popularity. He thought a Thanksgiving game would help. The Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving almost every year since then. The Lions and Cowboys are now the two teams most associated with Thanksgiving football.
The Teams That Play on Thanksgiving
Every year, the NFL schedules three games on Thanksgiving Day. The games are played in the afternoon and evening. The first game usually starts around 12:30 PM Eastern Time. The second game starts around 4:30 PM Eastern Time. The third game is a night game, starting around 8:20 PM Eastern Time.
The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys are the two teams that always play on Thanksgiving. The Lions usually host the early game, while the Cowboys host the second game. These teams have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football. Fans look forward to watching them play every year.
The third game on Thanksgiving does not have a fixed host. Different teams play in this game each year. The NFL tries to schedule exciting matchups for this game. Sometimes, it is a divisional rivalry game. Other times, it is a game between two top teams. The night game often features a team with a large fan base to attract more viewers.
Why Thanksgiving Football is So Popular
Thanksgiving football is popular for several reasons. First, it brings families together. Many families have a tradition of watching football on Thanksgiving. They gather around the TV after eating their Thanksgiving meal. The games provide entertainment and a shared experience for the whole family.
Second, Thanksgiving football is a break from the busy holiday season. The holiday season can be stressful with shopping, cooking, and traveling. Watching football is a way to relax and enjoy the holiday. It is a chance to take a break and have fun.
Third, Thanksgiving football is a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Many people grew up watching football on Thanksgiving with their families. They continue the tradition with their own families. It is a way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories.
Memorable Thanksgiving Games
Over the years, there have been many memorable Thanksgiving games. These games have provided fans with exciting moments and unforgettable performances. Here are a few examples:
1962: Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
This game is known for the “Thanksgiving Day Massacre.” The Packers, led by legendary coach Vince Lombardi, defeated the Lions 26-14. The game was a turning point for the Packers, who went on to win the NFL Championship that year.
1974: Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins
This game is remembered for Clint Longley’s “Mad Bomber” performance. Longley, a backup quarterback, replaced an injured Roger Staubach and led the Cowboys to a comeback victory. He threw two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter, including the game-winning pass with less than a minute left.
1993: Miami Dolphins vs. Dallas Cowboys
This game is famous for Leon Lett’s mistake. Lett, a Cowboys defensive lineman, tried to recover a blocked field goal in the snow. He slipped and touched the ball, allowing the Dolphins to recover and kick the game-winning field goal.
1998: Minnesota Vikings vs. Dallas Cowboys
This game is known for Randy Moss’s breakout performance. Moss, a rookie wide receiver, caught three touchdown passes and helped the Vikings defeat the Cowboys 46-36. The game showcased Moss’s incredible talent and made him a star.
2012: Houston Texans vs. Detroit Lions
This game is remembered for Justin Forsett’s long touchdown run. Forsett, a Texans running back, appeared to be tackled but got up and ran for an 81-yard touchdown. The play was controversial because Forsett was clearly down, but the referees did not blow the whistle. The Lions challenged the play, but the touchdown stood. The Texans won the game in overtime.
The Impact of Thanksgiving Football
Thanksgiving football has a significant impact on the NFL and its fans. The games attract millions of viewers every year. They are some of the most-watched games of the season. The high viewership makes Thanksgiving a valuable day for the NFL. It is an opportunity to showcase the league and attract new fans.
Thanksgiving football also has a cultural impact. It is a part of American tradition. The games are a symbol of the holiday season. They bring people together and create a sense of community. For many fans, Thanksgiving would not be the same without football.
The Future of Thanksgiving Football
The tradition of Thanksgiving football is likely to continue for many years. The NFL has no plans to change the schedule. The Lions and Cowboys will continue to host games on Thanksgiving. The third game will feature different teams each year, providing variety and excitement.
In recent years, the NFL has also added a new element to Thanksgiving football. In 2020, the league scheduled a third game for the first time in over a decade. The additional game was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it was well-received by fans. The NFL has continued to schedule three games on Thanksgiving since then.
The future of Thanksgiving football may also include new technologies and innovations. The NFL is always looking for ways to enhance the viewing experience. This could include new camera angles, virtual reality, or interactive features. These innovations could make Thanksgiving football even more exciting for fans.
Conclusion
Football on Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition in the United States. It brings families together, provides entertainment, and creates lasting memories. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have been at the center of this tradition for decades. The NFL continues to schedule exciting matchups for Thanksgiving, ensuring that fans have plenty to look forward to.
Thanksgiving football is more than just a game. It is a symbol of the holiday season and a way to connect with loved ones. Whether you are a die-hard football fan or just enjoy watching the games with your family, Thanksgiving football is a special part of the holiday. So, as you sit down to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal, don’t forget to tune in to the games. It’s a tradition that is sure to continue for many years to come.
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