Thanksgiving in the United States is a holiday synonymous with feasting, family gatherings, and, for millions of Americans, watching football. The tradition of football games on Thanksgiving Day has deep roots, blending sports with holiday celebrations in a characteristically American way.
The Origins of Thanksgiving Football
The connection between Thanksgiving and football dates back to the late 19th century, actually long before the NFL existed.
The College Game
In the 1870s, when football was still in its early days, Thanksgiving was often chosen as the date for major university games. Schools like Yale, Princeton, and Harvard used the holiday to draw large crowds to their matches, making it a social and athletic heart of the holiday.
By the 1890s, Thanksgiving football had become a nationwide phenomenon, with college teams scheduling marquee games on the holiday.
The Professional Game
Professional football adopted the Thanksgiving tradition early in its history. The first professional Thanksgiving Day game occurred in 1920, during the inaugural season of what would become the NFL. The Akron Pros defeated the Canton Bulldogs in a game that laid the foundation for the league’s holiday games.
The NFL and Thanksgiving: A Lasting Bond
Since the NFL’s formal establishment in 1920, Thanksgiving football has been a consistent feature of the league.
The Lions and Cowboys Tradition
Two franchises are most closely associated with Thanksgiving Day football:
- Detroit Lions: The Lions’ Thanksgiving tradition began in 1934 when team owner George A. Richards scheduled a holiday game to boost attendance. The strategy worked, and the Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game nearly every year since, except during World War II (1941-1944).
- Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving lineup in 1966 to take advantage on the holiday’s growing popularity. Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys’ games have become a staple of the Thanksgiving schedule, drawing massive TV audiences.
The Addition of a Third Game
In 2006, the NFL introduced a third Thanksgiving game in prime time, allowing more teams to participate and providing fans with even more football to enjoy.
Why Football on Thanksgiving Is So Popular
Tradition Meets Entertainment
Thanksgiving football provides a perfect complement to the day’s festivities. As families gather to share a meal, watching the game becomes a shared activity, sparking friendly rivalries and conversations.
High-Stakes Games
Thanksgiving games often feature competitive matchups with playoff implications, keeping fans engaged. For players, performing well on this national stage is a source of pride.
A Symbol of Americana
Football, like Thanksgiving, is deeply embedded in American culture. The combination of these traditions reinforces a sense of national identity and shared experience.
Memorable Thanksgiving Football Moments
The holiday has delivered some of the most unforgettable moments in football history:
- 1962: The Detroit Lions handed the Green Bay Packers their only loss of the season, sacking quarterback Bart Starr 11 times.
- 1993: Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett famously fumbled a recovered blocked field goal attempt, leading to a game-winning score for the Miami Dolphins.
- 1998: Randy Moss of the Minnesota Vikings surprised the Cowboys with three touchdowns on just three catches, showcasing his immense talent.
Thanksgiving Football Today
Thanksgiving football continues to evolve. With high-definition broadcasts, pregame festivities, and halftime performances, the games are more than just athletic contests—they’re spectacles that bring families and fans together.
Moreover, the tradition has inspired events at all levels of the game. High school teams across the country hold Thanksgiving Day games, fostering community spirit and pride.
Football on Thanksgiving – A Celebration of Sport and the Holiday
The tradition of football on Thanksgiving is as much about togetherness as it is about competition. Whether it’s the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys continuing their decades-long customs or a new generation of players making their mark, Thanksgiving football unites fans across the nation. It’s a celebration of the sport and the holiday, blending two beloved traditions into one unforgettable experience.
