The Enduring tradition of NFL Thanksgiving Football: A History & What to Expect
For over a century, the aroma of turkey has mingled with the roar of the crowd, making NFL football on Thanksgiving a uniquely American tradition.But have you ever wondered why this pairing became so ingrained in our culture? It’s a story rooted in the very origins of the game itself, evolving from collegiate rivalries to the multi-game spectacle we enjoy today. This article dives deep into the history of Thanksgiving Day football, explores the current schedule, and looks ahead to what fans can anticipate in the years to come.
The tradition began long before the official formation of the national Football League in 1920. As early as the late 19th century, with American football gaining popularity, universities like Yale and Princeton established a Thanksgiving Day rivalry.This provided entertainment on a day when most people had time off work, a concept that quickly spread to other colleges and universities. These early games weren’t just sporting events; they were social gatherings, cementing football’s place in the Thanksgiving holiday.
The Lions & Cowboys: Thanksgiving Mainstays
The Detroit Lions’ commitment to hosting a Thanksgiving game since 1934 is legendary. Owner G.A. Richards, seeking to boost attendance during a struggling franchise period, cleverly utilized the holiday’s built-in audience.
Did You Know? The Lions didn’t play on Thanksgiving between 1939-1944 due to World war II.
Similarly, the Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving tradition in 1966, quickly becoming another cornerstone of the holiday schedule. With only two exceptions (1975 and 1977), the Cowboys have consistently delivered a Thanksgiving home game, solidifying their connection to the holiday. This consistent presence has created a powerful brand association, making Thanksgiving synonymous with Lions and Cowboys football.
Pro Tip: Looking for the best Thanksgiving football viewing experience? Check your local listings for broadcast schedules and streaming options well in advance!
Expanding the Schedule: Thursday Night & Black Friday Football
In 2006, the NFL expanded the Thanksgiving Day schedule to include a primetime Thursday Night Football game, adding another layer of excitement to the holiday. This move capitalized on the growing popularity of thursday Night Football and provided fans with a tripleheader of gridiron action.
More recently, in 2023, the NFL introduced a Black Friday game, further extending the football festivities into the post-Thanksgiving shopping weekend. This addition, broadcast on Peacock, aims to attract a new audience and capitalize on the increased leisure time many people have after Thanksgiving dinner. According to Nielsen data from November 2023, the inaugural Black Friday game between the Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets averaged 6.8 million viewers, demonstrating a strong initial interest in this new tradition.https://www.nielsen.com/insights/2023/nfl-black-friday-game-draws-6-8-million-viewers-on-peacock/
The John Madden Thanksgiving Classic & Honoring a Legend
From 2001 to 2022, the Thanksgiving games were known as the “Thanksgiving Classic.” In a touching tribute to the iconic coach and broadcaster, John Madden, the games were renamed the “John Madden Thanksgiving Classic” in 2022, following his passing in December 2021. This renaming serves as a lasting honor to a man who profoundly impacted the sport and its cultural significance. Madden’s enthusiasm and insightful commentary made him a Thanksgiving Day staple for generations of fans.
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Beyond the Games: The Cultural Impact of Thanksgiving Football
The appeal of NFL football on Thanksgiving extends far
