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Thanksgiving is a special time in the United States. It is a day for family, food, and football. For many people, watching football on Thanksgiving is as important as eating turkey. The tradition of Thanksgiving football has been around for decades. It brings people together and adds excitement to the holiday. But with so many games and channels, it can be confusing to know where to watch. In this article, I will explain everything you need to know about Thanksgiving football, including what channels the games will be on, the history of the tradition, and some tips for enjoying the day.
The Tradition of Thanksgiving Football
Football and Thanksgiving go hand in hand. The tradition started in the early 20th century. In 1920, the NFL (National Football League) was founded. Just a few years later, in 1934, the Detroit Lions played their first Thanksgiving game. This game was so popular that it became an annual event. The Dallas Cowboys also started playing on Thanksgiving in 1966. Now, it is a tradition for these two teams to host games every Thanksgiving.
Over the years, more games have been added. Today, there are usually three NFL games on Thanksgiving Day. These games are spread throughout the day, so fans can watch football from morning to night. The games are broadcast on national TV, making it easy for everyone to tune in.
What Channels Will Thanksgiving Football Be On?
Thanksgiving football games are broadcast on major TV networks. The channels depend on the league and the specific game. Here is a breakdown of the channels you can expect to watch Thanksgiving football on:
NFL Games on Thanksgiving
The NFL is the main league that plays on Thanksgiving. The games are broadcast on three major networks: FOX, CBS, and NBC. Each network usually airs one game. Here is how it typically works:
FOX: FOX often broadcasts the early afternoon game. This game usually features the Detroit Lions, as they have a long history of playing on Thanksgiving. FOX is known for its high-quality coverage and entertaining commentary.
CBS: CBS typically airs the late afternoon game. This game often features the Dallas Cowboys, another team with a strong Thanksgiving tradition. CBS is a reliable channel with experienced announcers and analysts.
NBC: NBC broadcasts the primetime game, which is the last game of the day. This game usually features two strong teams and is one of the most-watched games of the season. NBC’s “Sunday Night Football” crew handles the coverage, and they are known for their professionalism and in-depth analysis.
College Football on Thanksgiving
While the NFL dominates Thanksgiving, college football also has a presence. Some college games are played on Thanksgiving or the day after. These games are usually broadcast on ESPN or ABC. College football has a different vibe than the NFL, with passionate fans and exciting rivalries. If you enjoy college football, be sure to check the schedule for Thanksgiving weekend.
Streaming Options
If you don’t have cable or prefer to watch games online, there are streaming options available. Many networks offer live streaming on their websites or apps. For example, you can watch FOX games on the FOX Sports app, CBS games on Paramount+, and NBC games on Peacock. Additionally, services like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and Sling TV offer access to these channels.
Thanksgiving Football Schedule
The NFL releases the Thanksgiving schedule well in advance. While the exact matchups can change from year to year, the structure is usually the same. Here is a general idea of what to expect:
Early Afternoon Game (12:30 PM ET): This game is often hosted by the Detroit Lions. They usually play against a team from the NFC (National Football Conference). FOX broadcasts this game.
Late Afternoon Game (4:30 PM ET): This game is often hosted by the Dallas Cowboys. They usually play against a team from the NFC or AFC (American Football Conference). CBS broadcasts this game.
Primetime Game (8:20 PM ET): This game features two strong teams and is broadcast on NBC. It is the highlight of the day and often has playoff implications.
In addition to these games, there may be a college football game on Thanksgiving night or the following Friday. These games are usually broadcast on ESPN or ABC.
Why Is Thanksgiving Football So Popular?
Thanksgiving football is popular for several reasons:
Tradition: Many families have been watching football on Thanksgiving for generations. It is a tradition that brings people together.
Entertainment: Football is exciting to watch. The games on Thanksgiving are often competitive and feature some of the best teams in the league.
Convenience: Thanksgiving is a holiday when most people are at home. Watching football is a fun and relaxing way to spend the day.
Rivalries: Some Thanksgiving games feature historic rivalries. For example, the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys often play against teams they have a long history with.
Tips for Enjoying Thanksgiving Football
Here are some tips to make the most of your Thanksgiving football experience:
Plan Ahead: Check the schedule and know what time the games start. This will help you plan your day and make sure you don’t miss any action.
Set Up Multiple Screens: If you have more than one TV or device, you can watch different games at the same time. This is especially useful if you are a fan of multiple teams.
Prepare Snacks: Football and snacks go hand in hand. Prepare some Thanksgiving-themed snacks like turkey sliders, pumpkin dip, or cranberry salsa.
Invite Friends and Family: Watching football is more fun with others. Invite friends and family over to enjoy the games together.
Take Breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks between games. Use this time to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal or take a walk outside.
The Future of Thanksgiving Football
Thanksgiving football is here to stay. The tradition is deeply rooted in American culture, and the NFL continues to embrace it. In recent years, there has been talk of adding more games to the Thanksgiving schedule. While this could change the dynamic, it would also give fans more football to enjoy.
Additionally, streaming services are becoming more popular. In the future, we may see more games available exclusively on streaming platforms. This would give fans more flexibility in how they watch.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving football is a beloved tradition that brings joy to millions of people. Whether you are a die-hard fan or just enjoy watching casually, there is something for everyone. The games are broadcast on major networks like FOX, CBS, and NBC, as well as streaming services. With three NFL games and possibly some college football, there is plenty of action to enjoy.
So, this Thanksgiving, gather your family, prepare some snacks, and settle in for a day of football. It’s a tradition that combines the best of the holiday: family, food, and fun. Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy the games!
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