What Football Team Plays on Thanksgiving Day?
Thanksgiving Day in the United States is a time for families to gather and enjoy a festive meal together. However, for many football fans, it is also an opportunity to watch an exciting game on this special day. One team in particular has become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football – the Detroit Lions.
The tradition of the Detroit Lions playing on Thanksgiving Day dates back to 1934 when the team was still based in Portsmouth, Ohio. The Lions’ owner, George A. Richards, purchased the Portsmouth Spartans and moved the team to Detroit. In an effort to generate publicity and attract fans to the struggling franchise, Richards decided to schedule a game on Thanksgiving Day.
The inaugural Thanksgiving Day game for the Lions took place on November 29, 1934, against the Chicago Bears. The game was a success, drawing over 26,000 spectators to the University of Detroit Stadium. Since then, the Lions have played on Thanksgiving Day every year, except during World War II when the league suspended play. In 1966, the Dallas Cowboys also began playing on Thanksgiving, creating a second game for football fans to enjoy.
Over the years, the Detroit Lions have become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football. The team’s annual game has become a beloved tradition for many families, who gather around the television to watch the Lions take on their opponents. The games are known for their festive atmosphere, with halftime performances, special uniforms, and other entertainment to enhance the holiday spirit.
Now let’s address some common questions related to the Detroit Lions playing on Thanksgiving Day:
1. Why do the Detroit Lions always play on Thanksgiving?
The tradition started in 1934 as a way to generate publicity for the struggling franchise.
2. How many times have the Lions won on Thanksgiving Day?
As of 2021, the Lions have won 37 games on Thanksgiving Day.
3. Who was the first team the Lions played on Thanksgiving?
The Chicago Bears were the first team the Lions played on Thanksgiving in 1934.
4. Do the Lions always play at home on Thanksgiving?
Yes, the Lions always host the Thanksgiving Day game at Ford Field in Detroit.
5. Has any other team played on Thanksgiving as long as the Lions?
No, the Lions hold the record for the longest consecutive Thanksgiving Day game streak.
6. Why did the Dallas Cowboys start playing on Thanksgiving?
In 1966, the Cowboys’ general manager, Tex Schramm, saw an opportunity to attract more fans and increase the team’s national exposure.
7. How many times have the Cowboys won on Thanksgiving Day?
As of 2021, the Cowboys have won 31 games on Thanksgiving Day.
8. What other teams have played on Thanksgiving Day?
Various teams have played on Thanksgiving Day over the years, but the Lions and Cowboys are the only ones with a consistent presence.
9. Can other teams request to play on Thanksgiving?
Yes, teams can request to play on Thanksgiving, but the NFL decides which teams will participate based on various factors.
10. Is the Thanksgiving game a regular-season game?
Yes, the Thanksgiving Day game is a regular-season game that counts towards the teams’ overall records.
11. Have the Lions ever played the Cowboys on Thanksgiving?
Yes, the Lions and Cowboys have faced each other multiple times on Thanksgiving Day.
12. What time does the Thanksgiving Day game usually start?
The game typically starts in the early afternoon, around 12:30 PM or 1:00 PM Eastern Time.
13. Do the Lions and Cowboys always win on Thanksgiving?
No, both teams have had their share of wins and losses on Thanksgiving Day.
14. Is there a specific reason why the Lions and Cowboys play on Thanksgiving?
The reasons behind the tradition vary, but it is primarily due to historical circumstances and the popularity of the teams in their respective cities.
In conclusion, the Detroit Lions have been playing on Thanksgiving Day for over eight decades, creating a beloved tradition for football fans across the country. The team’s annual game is a cherished event, showcasing the spirit of the holiday and providing entertainment for families to enjoy together.
