Unpacking the history and cultural significance behind the NFL’s Thanksgiving Day tradition.

Thanksgiving and football have long been inseparable, with millions of Americans tuning in to enjoy a festive day of turkey, family, and—of course—football. But what is it about the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys that makes them such integral parts of this tradition? Let’s dive into the origins of this iconic NFL tradition and the role these two teams play every year.

The First Thanksgiving Football Game: A Collegiate Rivalry

Thanksgiving Day football has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. While the NFL wouldn’t officially begin its Thanksgiving tradition until the 1930s, Thanksgiving football itself can be traced back to 1876 when the Harvard and Yale football teams faced off in what became known as “The Game.” This annual rivalry quickly became a staple of the holiday, setting the stage for the Thanksgiving football traditions we know today.

Detroit Lions: Pioneers of Thanksgiving Football

The Detroit Lions’ connection to Thanksgiving Day football began in 1934, when team owner George A. Richards decided to schedule a game on the holiday in order to garner more attention for his newly relocated team. At the time, the Lions were competing against the popular Detroit Tigers, and Richards saw Thanksgiving as an opportunity to get his football team in front of a larger audience. In that inaugural game, the Lions faced off against the Chicago Bears, drawing a crowd of 26,000 fans to University of Detroit Stadium. The game was broadcast nationwide, creating a lasting legacy for the Lions and solidifying their place in Thanksgiving history.

Since that first game, the Lions have become synonymous with the holiday, playing every Thanksgiving without fail, except for a few years during the 1970s. Although they have had their share of ups and downs, with a 37-45-2 all-time record on Thanksgiving, Detroit’s Thanksgiving games continue to be a hallmark of the holiday.

Dallas Cowboys: America’s Team and the Thanksgiving Day Tradition

The Dallas Cowboys’ inclusion in the Thanksgiving Day tradition didn’t occur until 1966, but their impact has been undeniable. In the early 1960s, the Cowboys were struggling to find their footing, with a losing record from 1960 to 1965. However, in a move designed to boost the Cowboys’ national appeal, team president Tex Schramm volunteered the Cowboys to play on Thanksgiving Day, offering to make it a yearly tradition if the NFL allowed it.

That decision paid off. Dallas went on to have a remarkable season in 1966, setting an attendance record and winning 10 of their 13 games. The Cowboys became a fixture on Thanksgiving, attracting large audiences and creating a widespread following. By the late 1970s, Dallas was dubbed “America’s Team,” largely due to their strong performances on Thanksgiving Day and the widespread exposure they received through television broadcasts.

Over the years, the Cowboys have become one of the most successful teams in Thanksgiving Day history, with a 33-22-1 record. Their involvement in the tradition has only strengthened, and they continue to be a beloved part of the holiday.

Why Other Teams Don’t Play on Thanksgiving

While the Lions and Cowboys have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football, not every team gets the chance to play on this special day. The NFL initially kept the tradition limited to two teams, but with the addition of a third Thanksgiving game in 2006, the NFL has started to include other teams on the holiday’s schedule. However, only a handful of teams have played on Thanksgiving, with the Lions and Cowboys remaining the focal points of the day.

The NFL has historically focused on high-profile matchups to maximize television viewership, which is why the teams chosen to play on Thanksgiving are often those with large fanbases or compelling storylines. For example, in 2024, the games feature classic rivals like the Chicago Bears, New York Giants, and Green Bay Packers alongside the regular Thanksgiving participants.

Memorable Thanksgiving Moments

Over the years, the Cowboys and Lions have provided fans with some unforgettable Thanksgiving Day performances. From Barry Sanders’ 167-yard, three-touchdown game in 1997 to the Cowboys’ dominant 51-7 victory over Seattle in 1980, the holiday games have become a stage for some of the NFL’s most memorable moments. Whether it’s a thrilling comeback or a spectacular individual performance, these games are filled with history.

The Cultural Legacy of Thanksgiving Football

Thanksgiving Day football has evolved into a cultural event that goes beyond just the games themselves. The holiday has become an unofficial kickoff to the NFL season, with millions of Americans gathering around the television to watch the Lions and Cowboys play. The NFL’s expansion of Thanksgiving games in the 2000s has only strengthened this tradition, with additional games now aired in primetime.

In 2024, fans can look forward to a full day of action, starting with the Lions taking on the Bears, followed by the Cowboys and Giants, and culminating with the Dolphins and Packers in a night game. These matchups continue to bring families and football fans together, cementing Thanksgiving as a day for both food and football.

Looking Ahead: More Thanksgiving Football in the Future

As the NFL continues to grow in popularity, it seems inevitable that Thanksgiving Day will remain a cornerstone of American football culture. With the addition of a third game and the increasing prominence of streaming platforms like Amazon, the future of Thanksgiving football looks bright, and who knows—perhaps we’ll see even more teams playing on the holiday in years to come.

In conclusion, the longstanding tradition of the Cowboys and Lions playing every Thanksgiving is not just about football; it’s about culture, family, and the joy of a national pastime that brings people together. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just tuning in for the spectacle, these games continue to be a cherished part of the American holiday season.