A Dive into Thanksgiving Weekend Football Festivities

Thanksgiving football games remain a cherished American tradition, offering fans the chance to indulge in sporting entertainment alongside holiday festivities. For many, whether sneaking away from family gatherings to a small kitchen television or enjoying the action on a spacious living room screen, football is sure to bring joy this Thanksgiving.

The National Football League (NFL) and college football will see the majority of games on their usual days of Sunday and Saturday, respectively. However, some games are scheduled for Thanksgiving Day and an additional match on Black Friday. A remarkable encounter for those who favor NFL action will feature the Las Vegas Raiders challenging the Kansas City Chiefs on Black Friday, marking a new addition to the holiday lineup.

In college football, Memphis will face off against the nationally ranked No. 25 Tulane on Thanksgiving Day. Meanwhile, those without a specific streaming service subscription can access live local and primetime NFL games via a subscription to NFL+.

The Thanksgiving Day NFL schedule promises excitement, traditionally kicking off with the Detroit Lions, who have made a record 82 appearances on Thanksgiving Day. This year, the Lions will ensure their 85th annual Thanksgiving Day Classic is memorable, competing against the Chicago Bears. The Lions, currently holding an 8–1 record, boast seven consecutive wins, while the Bears, at 4–5, recently fired their offensive coordinator amid a three-game losing streak.

Following this, the Dallas Cowboys will host the New York Giants in another anticipated division rivalry clash. The Cowboys, holding a 3–6 record, have suffered a four-game losing streak, whereas the Giants, at 2–8, face a daunting five-game losing skid. As part of the entertainment, country music artist Shaboozey will perform during the Lions’ halftime show, while Lainey Wilson is set to entertain crowds at the Cowboys’ halftime in the Red Kettle Kickoff.

The day will culminate with the Green Bay Packers confronting the Miami Dolphins at Lambeau Field. The Packers, standing at 6–3, hope to capitalize on their momentum post-bye week, led by quarterback Jordan Love. Conversely, the Dolphins, winless in three games, wrestle with injury challenges, notably impacting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.