Thanksgiving Day has long been a cherished tradition in the United States, and for NFL fans, it brings a special treat: a full day of football. The NFL Thanksgiving games are an annual staple, and 2024 will continue the tradition with three exciting matchups. From long-standing rivalries to prime-time clashes, these games are a great way to enjoy the holiday while indulging in some competitive football.
A Look Back at the Thanksgiving Tradition
The NFL has been playing games on Thanksgiving Day since 1920, nearly as long as the league itself has existed. The tradition began as part of a broader American football culture that saw college football games played on the holiday. In 1934, the Detroit Lions became the first team to be regularly featured on Thanksgiving Day, and since then, they’ve become an integral part of the holiday’s football lineup.
A second team joined the tradition in 1966: the Dallas Cowboys. Both teams have played on Thanksgiving every year since their inclusion, becoming fixtures of the holiday for football fans across the nation.
Starting in 2006, a third game was added to the Thanksgiving schedule, marking a significant expansion of the NFL’s holiday offerings. This game is not fixed to any specific team, giving fans a fresh match-up each year.
Which Teams Are Playing on Thanksgiving 2024?
The Thanksgiving Day NFL games for 2024 will feature some classic matchups, along with a third, prime-time contest between two major teams. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions
- Location: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
- Kickoff Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
- Channel: CBS
The first game of the day will see the Chicago Bears take on the Detroit Lions at Ford Field in Detroit. This game continues the long-running Thanksgiving Day tradition for the Lions, who have hosted a game every year since 1934. As one of the most storied rivalries in the NFL, this matchup promises to bring a competitive edge to the holiday festivities. The Lions have struggled in recent years but will look to turn the tide and deliver a memorable Thanksgiving performance for their home crowd.
2. New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
- Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
- Kickoff Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
- Channel: Fox
Next up, the Dallas Cowboys will face off against the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys have been a Thanksgiving fixture since 1966 and will once again host a prime-time matchup. The Cowboys, led by quarterback Dak Prescott, are one of the NFL’s most popular teams, and their annual Thanksgiving game has become a tradition in its own right. Facing off against the New York Giants, a team with a historic rivalry with Dallas, this matchup is sure to be full of excitement and big plays.
3. Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers
- Location: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Kickoff Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
- Channel: NBC
The nightcap of Thanksgiving Day 2024 will feature the Miami Dolphins taking on the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers are one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, and playing on Thanksgiving Day will add another chapter to their rich history. The Dolphins, a rising team in the AFC, will look to challenge the Packers in their chilly home stadium. While the Packers have the historical advantage in this matchup, the Dolphins’ high-powered offense could make this a thrilling, high-scoring affair.
NFL Thanksgiving Day Rivalries and Key Players to Watch
The Thanksgiving games are not only special because of the tradition, but also because they often feature some of the NFL’s most exciting rivalries and best players. Here’s a quick look at what to watch for in each game:
- Bears vs. Lions: This historic NFC North rivalry has seen many memorable moments on Thanksgiving Day. The Lions will be looking to improve their defense and find a spark in their offense, while the Bears will try to exploit weaknesses in Detroit’s game plan. Key players to watch include Bears quarterback Justin Fields and Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.
- Giants vs. Cowboys: The NFC East rivalry between the Cowboys and Giants is one of the most intense in the league. The Cowboys’ high-powered offense, led by Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, will square off against the Giants’ stout defense. Daniel Jones, the Giants’ quarterback, will need to have a big game if New York hopes to keep pace with Dallas.
- Dolphins vs. Packers: The Dolphins are known for their fast-paced, explosive offense, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill. The Packers, with the leadership of Aaron Rodgers (though he may have moved on by 2024), will need to rely on their running game and defense to keep Miami’s offense in check.
Where to Watch the Games
All three games will be broadcast nationally, so whether you’re watching from home or with family and friends, it will be easy to tune in. Here’s where you can catch the action:
- Bears vs. Lions: CBS (12:30 p.m. ET)
- Giants vs. Cowboys: Fox (4:30 p.m. ET)
- Dolphins vs. Packers: NBC (8:20 p.m. ET)
The games will be broadcast live on major networks, so check your local listings for specific channel information.
