Thanksgiving Football Games 2023: Feast on NFL Action with Lions, Cowboys, and More

The 2023 NFL Thanksgiving Day is packed with exciting matchups, continuing the long-standing tradition of football on this festive holiday. Here"s a look at the games scheduled:

• Packers at Lions - The day kicks off at 12:30 p.m. ET on Fox. The Lions, showing significant improvement this season and leading the NFC North, will host the Packers, who are facing challenges in the NFC. This matchup at Ford Field is crucial for both teams" playoff aspirations.
• Commanders at Cowboys - Following the first game, the Cowboys will host the Commanders at 4:30 p.m. ET on CBS. This game marks another chapter in their historic rivalry, with both teams looking to bolster their positions in the NFC East.
• 49ers at Seahawks - The final game of the day features an NFC West showdown between the 49ers and Seahawks at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. The 49ers, aiming for a strong playoff run, face the Seahawks, who have their postseason sights set.

All three games promise intense rivalries and significant implications for the NFL standings, making this Thanksgiving a must-watch for football fans.

The tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving is a staple of American culture, intertwining football with holiday festivities. This tradition dates back to 1934 when the Detroit Lions, then newly moved from Ohio and renamed from the Portsmouth Spartans, played their first Thanksgiving game. George A. Richards, the team"s owner and a radio executive, orchestrated the Thanksgiving game to gain more attention and fan base in Detroit. The game against the Chicago Bears, which the Lions lost, marked the beginning of an enduring tradition. Since then, except for the World War II years (1939-1944), the Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game annually.

In 1966, another landmark was established when the Dallas Cowboys began hosting Thanksgiving games. The decision, made by Cowboys" GM Tex Schramm, was aimed at gaining publicity and was immensely successful, cementing the Cowboys as a Thanksgiving fixture and contributing to their nickname "America"s Team." The first Cowboys" Thanksgiving game, played against the Cleveland Browns, attracted a massive crowd of 80,259 fans. Though the St. Louis Cardinals briefly replaced Dallas as hosts in 1975 and 1977, the Cowboys resumed and have since been a regular feature on Thanksgiving.

The NFL expanded the Thanksgiving offering in 2006 by adding a third primetime game. Unlike the traditional Detroit and Dallas games, this third game does not have fixed hosts and features varying matchups, adding to the day"s excitement and broadening national interest.

Alongside these NFL games, Thanksgiving football is celebrated across various levels, including high school and college games. These games often carry significant local and regional importance, with traditions and rivalries that sometimes date back over a century. For example, the Norwich Free Academy vs. New London High School rivalry, known as the nation"s oldest, has been ongoing since 1875.

Thanksgiving football not only serves as entertainment but also plays a crucial role in American tradition, bringing families and communities together in a celebration that blends sport and festivity. Whether it"s the historical significance of the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys games or the thrilling matchups of the primetime game, NFL football has become an integral part of Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States.

The 2023 NFL Thanksgiving Day games promise thrilling matchups with significant playoff implications. This year"s schedule features all divisional contests, intensifying rivalries and stakes. Here"s a breakdown of the key matchups and team analysis for each game.

Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions

• Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
• Channel: FOX
• Analysis: The Packers, undergoing a major transition after trading Aaron Rodgers, face the Lions with new quarterback Jordan Love. The Lions, despite being favorites for the NFC North, haven"t won a Thanksgiving game in six years. The last holiday face-off between these teams in 2013 ended in a dominant Lions victory (40-10).

Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys

• Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
• Channel: CBS
• Analysis: The Commanders, grappling with their quarterback situation, take on the Cowboys, who are eyeing the NFC East title. Their last Thanksgiving meetup in 2020 saw the Commanders winning convincingly (41-16). This matchup could be pivotal for both teams" playoff aspirations.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks

• Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
• Channel: NBC
• Analysis: A high-stakes NFC West showdown, the 49ers and Seahawks game could significantly influence the division"s lead. This primetime matchup, the "cranberry sauce" of the Thanksgiving slate, holds potential for high viewership and dramatic football action.

These matchups, rich in history and rivalry, are set to captivate fans across the nation, embodying the spirit of competition and tradition on Thanksgiving Day.

Thanksgiving 2023 brings an exciting lineup of NFL games, available on various TV channels and streaming services. Whether you are at home or on the go, you won"t miss any of the action.

Packers vs. Lions

• Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
• Channel: FOX
• Streaming Options: NFL+, FuboTV (Free Trial), Hulu + Live TV, Sunday Ticket on Youtube
• Radio: Local radio stations and Sirius Satellite Radio

Commanders vs. Cowboys

• Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
• Channel: CBS
• Streaming Options: NFL+, Paramount+ (subscription), FuboTV (Free Trial), Hulu + Live TV, Youtube TV
• Radio: Local radio stations for both teams

Seahawks vs. 49ers

• Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
• Channel: NBC and Peacock
• Streaming Options: FuboTV, Sling, Peacock
• Radio: Local radio stations and Sirius Satellite Radio

For those without cable, live streaming services like FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV offer access to these channels. Additionally, NFL+ provides a subscription-based streaming service for NFL games.

Moreover, viewers can take advantage of free trials from services like DIRECTV STREAM, FuboTV, and YouTube TV to catch the Thanksgiving games.

With these various options, fans can enjoy the thrill of Thanksgiving NFL games from anywhere.

The 2023 NFL Thanksgiving Day games not only showcase intense rivalry but also bring to light key player performances and notable injuries that could impact the outcomes.

Notable Player Performances

• In the Commanders vs. Cowboys game, DaRon Bland of the Cowboys made a significant impact with a notable interception against Sam Howell of the Commanders, adding a historical significance to his performance.

Key Injuries

Injuries have a crucial impact on team strategies and game dynamics. Here are some of the notable injuries affecting teams playing on Thanksgiving:

• New Orleans Saints: Running back Alvin Kamara (ankle) and linebacker Nephi Sewell (knee) were sidelined in their recent games.
• San Francisco 49ers: Star running back Christian McCaffrey suffered a calf injury, raising concerns about his performance for the upcoming games.
• Seattle Seahawks: Offensive tackle Abraham Lucas (knee) and center Evan Brown (concussion) faced injuries that could affect the team"s performance.
• Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers: Both teams faced significant injury challenges, with key players sidelined, adding intrigue to their Thanksgiving matchup.

These player spotlights and injuries will play a crucial role in the Thanksgiving games, influencing team strategies and fan expectations.

Thanksgiving Day has been a stage for some of the NFL"s most memorable moments. Here are a few that have left an indelible mark in football history:

• The 1993 Dallas Cowboys vs. Miami Dolphins game is famous for its dramatic finish. On a snowy day in Texas, the Cowboys blocked a field goal attempt by the Dolphins in the final moments, only for Dallas defensive lineman Leon Lett to inadvertently touch the ball, leading to a recovered Miami"s victory with a successful field goal.
• Another unforgettable moment occurred in a 1998 game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions, where a coin flip mishap during overtime added an unusual twist to the game.
• In 1977, the Miami Dolphins set a Thanksgiving Day record by scoring 55 points against the St. Louis Cardinals, with Bob Griese throwing for six touchdowns. This record was later tied by Peyton Manning.
• The 1974 Dallas Cowboys game saw rookie Clint Longley, replacing injured Roger Staubach, throw a winning 50-yard touchdown pass to Drew Pearson in the last minute, clinching a victory against the Washington Redskins.

These moments are not just high points in the games themselves but have become part of the Thanksgiving Day tradition, blending sportsmanship, drama, and excitement into this unique American holiday.

The tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving is a cornerstone of American culture, dating back many decades. Here"s a glimpse into some of these cherished traditions:

• Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys: Since 1934, the Detroit Lions have been a staple of Thanksgiving Day football. The Dallas Cowboys joined this tradition in 1966. Both teams play annually on Thanksgiving, with Detroit in the early slot and Dallas in the late afternoon slot.
• Primetime Game: In 2006, the NFL introduced a third game to the Thanksgiving schedule, which is played in primetime and can feature any team from the league.
• Salvation Army Kickoff: Since 1997, the Dallas Cowboys" Thanksgiving game has also been the kickoff for the Salvation Army"s Christmas Kettle campaign.
• Historical Rivalries: Before the Lions and Cowboys became fixtures, early NFL Thanksgiving games featured intense rivalries like the Chicago Bears vs. Chicago Cardinals from 1922 to 1933.
• Community and Family Gathering: Thanksgiving NFL games have become a significant part of family gatherings, creating a unique blend of football, family, and holiday spirit across the nation.
• Throwback Uniforms: Since 2001, NFL teams have often paid homage to their history by donning throwback uniforms during Thanksgiving games.

These traditions not only highlight the sport"s rich history but also reinforce football"s integral role in the Thanksgiving holiday, celebrated by millions across the United States.

The impact of Thanksgiving NFL games on season standings is significant, often determining playoff races and setting the tone for the final weeks of the season. In 2023, the Thanksgiving games again played a pivotal role in shaping the NFL playoff picture.

AFC Playoff Implications: In the AFC, Thanksgiving games have historically influenced the wild card race. For instance, teams like the Colts and Steelers faced crucial matchups during Thanksgiving week, with outcomes potentially defining their playoff chances. A loss for either team could open up the race, making the playoff picture more competitive and unpredictable.

NFC Playoff Implications: Similarly, in the NFC, Thanksgiving games can impact top teams" chances for a playoff bye and affect the overall standings. Teams like the Cowboys, for example, have a history of playing significant games on Thanksgiving that could impact their positioning in the NFC standings.

• Thanksgiving games can make or break a team"s playoff hopes, especially for those on the cusp of a wild card spot.
• Performance in these games can also affect a team"s momentum as they head into the final stretch of the regular season.

Viewer Engagement: The high viewership of Thanksgiving games, with millions tuning in, adds extra pressure and excitement to these matchups. For example, the 2023 Thanksgiving Day games set a new viewership record, indicating the massive interest and impact these games have on the NFL audience.

Historical Context: Historically, Thanksgiving games have been a staple in NFL tradition since 1920, often involving key matchups that influence playoff races. The Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions have been regular hosts, with their games attracting national attention and occasionally determining their playoff fates.

In conclusion, Thanksgiving NFL games are more than just a holiday tradition; they are pivotal contests that can significantly influence the NFL standings and playoff races. The outcomes of these games are closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as they often predict the potential success or failure of teams in the postseason.

While the NFL has a prominent place in Thanksgiving traditions, college and high school football games also play a significant role in celebrating the holiday. These games embody community spirit and local rivalries, offering a unique blend of tradition and competition.

College Football on Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving in college football often features rivalry games with historical significance. One notable example is the "Egg Bowl," a traditional game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State, which has been played since 1901. This rivalry game captures the essence of college football tradition, with passionate fan bases and storied histories. In 2023, the Egg Bowl was the sole college football game scheduled on Thanksgiving, highlighting its importance.

Beyond Thanksgiving Day, the holiday weekend is filled with notable college football games. For instance, matchups like Tulane vs. Cincinnati and NC State vs. North Carolina take place on Black Friday, each with significant implications for conference standings and bowl game qualifications.

High School Football Traditions: High school football on Thanksgiving is a cornerstone of many communities, often highlighting long-standing rivalries. Historic matchups such as Ansonia vs. Naugatuck, which has been played since 1900, and Darien vs. New Canaan, a rivalry dating back to 1928, are prime examples of these traditions. These games not only bring together alumni and current students but also involve entire communities in celebrations and festivities.

In states like Rhode Island, high school football games are a staple of Thanksgiving week. From cross-town rivalries to long-standing contests, these games create a festive atmosphere, with schools and communities rallying behind their teams. Examples include the games between West Warwick and Coventry, and Cranston East vs. Cranston West, showcasing the local spirit and community engagement that these games foster.

In conclusion, Thanksgiving football extends well beyond the NFL, with college and high school games playing a crucial role in the holiday"s tradition. These games offer a showcase of local and regional pride, bringing together communities in celebration of not just football, but shared history and rivalry.

Thanksgiving football, a cherished American tradition, is filled with fascinating facts and trivia. From historic NFL records to quirky traditions, here"s a collection of fun facts that add to the holiday"s festivities.

• The first professional Thanksgiving football game was played in the late 19th century, with Yale and Princeton kicking off college-level Thanksgiving games in 1876.
• The Detroit Lions have played the most Thanksgiving games, starting their tradition in 1934, and hold the record for both the most wins and losses on Thanksgiving.
• The Dallas Cowboys have the second-most appearances in Thanksgiving games, starting their tradition in 1966. They have also been replaced twice, in 1975 and 1977, by the St. Louis Cardinals.
• O.J. Simpson holds the record for the most rushing yards in a Thanksgiving game, with 273 yards against the Lions in 1976.
• The Green Bay Packers have the second-most losses on Thanksgiving, with a total of 20 losses.
• The largest point differential in a Thanksgiving game was in 1980, with the Dallas Cowboys beating the Seattle Seahawks 51-7.
• There were no Thanksgiving games played from 1941-1944 due to WWII.
• The Minnesota Vikings have the highest winning percentage per Thanksgiving appearances, with a record of 5-1.
• The Jacksonville Jaguars are the only NFL franchise to have never played a Thanksgiving game.
• High school football also plays a big part in Thanksgiving traditions, with states like Connecticut hosting numerous rivalry games dating back to the early 1900s.

These fun facts showcase the rich history and unique aspects of Thanksgiving football, blending sports, tradition, and holiday spirit.

From historic collegiate rivalries to exhilarating NFL showdowns, Thanksgiving football encapsulates the spirit of tradition and excitement. Join us in celebrating this unique blend of sports and holiday cheer, a testament to America"s enduring love for the game.