NFL on Thanksgiving Day

The NFL on Thanksgiving Day is a long-standing tradition in American football, where the National Football League (NFL) schedules games on Thanksgiving Day in the United States. This tradition has been a staple of the NFL since its inception in 1920, making it one of the oldest and most celebrated customs in the league.

History

The tradition of playing football games on Thanksgiving dates back to 1876, shortly after the game had been invented. The first NFL games held on Thanksgiving were played in 1920. Historically, the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have hosted games on this day, a tradition that began in 1934 for the Lions and 1966 for the Cowboys. These games have become a significant part of Thanksgiving celebrations for many Americans.

Format

Typically, three NFL games are played on Thanksgiving. The day begins with the Detroit Lions hosting an opponent, followed by the Dallas Cowboys. Since 2006, a third game with no fixed host team has been added to the Thanksgiving lineup, often featuring different teams each year to provide a broader national appeal.

Significance and Reception

The NFL games on Thanksgiving have become a major part of American Thanksgiving celebrations, providing entertainment for families gathered for the holiday. The games have high viewership, as they combine national sports interest with holiday leisure. The tradition also holds significant cultural importance, showcasing the NFL's role in American culture and the sport's ability to bring people together.

Notable Games

Over the years, several Thanksgiving Day games have been particularly memorable due to dramatic finishes, outstanding performances, or unusual incidents. These include the 1993 game between the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys, where a rare snowstorm in Texas created challenging playing conditions, and the infamous "Coin Toss" game in 1998 between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions.

Controversies

The tradition has not been without its controversies, including debates over player safety, given the short recovery time between games, and concerns about the fairness of having the same teams host the games annually. Critics argue that this gives the Lions and Cowboys an unfair advantage, although fans of the tradition appreciate the continuity and history.

Future of the Tradition

The NFL has continued to support the tradition of Thanksgiving games, and there is no indication that it will discontinue these fixtures. The introduction of the third game has allowed more teams to participate in the Thanksgiving celebration, potentially addressing some criticisms about the fairness of the hosting arrangement.

See Also

• List of NFL franchise post-season droughts
• Super Bowl
• American football rules