Image credits: X(Detroit lions/NFL)
Thanksgiving is synonymous with turkey, family gatherings, and NFL football. In 2024, the tradition continues for the 19th consecutive year with three games scheduled for the holiday. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys, long-standing Thanksgiving staples, will each host games. Adding intrigue, the Miami Dolphins and Green Bay Packers will clash in a prime-time showdown. Here’s a detailed look at the matchups and what to expect from the day’s action-packed slate.
Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears
- Location: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
- Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
- Channel: CBS
The Thanksgiving festivities kick off with a classic NFC North rivalry between the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears. The Lions, hosting their 59th Thanksgiving game, have played on this holiday nearly every year since 1934, save for a brief hiatus during the Great Depression and World War II (1939-1945). Meanwhile, the Bears return to the Thanksgiving stage to conclude a tough stretch of divisional games.
Key Context:
- The Lions are coming off a road game against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 12 and will look to solidify their playoff position at home.
- Chicago, enduring a three-game NFC North gauntlet, will arrive in Detroit after consecutive divisional matchups against the Packers and Vikings.
- With both teams hungry for divisional supremacy, this game promises high stakes and intense competition.
Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants
- Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
- Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
- Channel: Fox
The Dallas Cowboys, Thanksgiving mainstays since 1966, host the New York Giants in an NFC East battle. Dallas looks to rebound from last year’s Thanksgiving loss and capitalize on their Week 13 home-field advantage. The Giants, entering the game after a challenging Week 12 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, will aim to disrupt their rival’s holiday tradition.
Key Context:
- Dallas comes off a divisional clash against Washington in Week 12 and must rely on their backup quarterback after Dak Prescott’s season-ending hamstring injury.
- The Giants, also turning to a backup quarterback due to Daniel Jones’ struggles, face an uphill battle in Arlington.
- The stakes are high, with playoff implications for both teams as they push through a grueling NFC East schedule.
Green Bay Packers vs. Miami Dolphins
- Location: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
- Channel: NBC
Closing out the Thanksgiving slate is a prime-time matchup between the Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins. This marks the second consecutive holiday meeting for the two teams, with their last encounter occurring on Christmas Day 2022 when the Packers secured a victory.
Key Context:
- The Dolphins hit the road after two consecutive home games against the Raiders and Patriots in Weeks 11 and 12.
- The Packers, enjoying their second straight home game after hosting the 49ers in Week 12, will aim to defend their turf under the iconic Lambeau lights.
- With star players and electrifying offenses, this game is poised to deliver an exciting conclusion to the Thanksgiving lineup.
Thanksgiving NFL Traditions and Legacy
The Detroit Lions’ Thanksgiving history dates back to 1934 when owner George A. Richards established the holiday game to attract attention to his team. Similarly, the Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966, adding their own flair to the holiday spectacle. Together, these franchises have become synonymous with Thanksgiving football, and their annual appearances draw millions of viewers.
In 2024, the addition of the Dolphins-Packers prime-time matchup continues the NFL’s tradition of providing fans with three games on Thanksgiving, delivering a full day of football excitement.
What to Watch For
- Rivalry Renewed: Divisional clashes between the Lions-Bears and Cowboys-Giants will set the tone for the day, with playoff implications hanging in the balance.
- Prime-Time Showdown: The Dolphins-Packers game promises star power and strategic gameplay as two competitive teams square off under the lights.
- Thanksgiving Atmosphere: Expect electric home crowds in Detroit, Dallas, and Green Bay, as fans bring the holiday spirit to these iconic NFL venues.
Thanksgiving 2024 promises another thrilling chapter in the NFL’s storied history, with matchups that showcase fierce rivalries, playoff pushes, and unforgettable moments. So, grab your turkey leg, settle in, and enjoy the show!
