Thanksgiving Day in the United States is synonymous with family gatherings, hearty feasts, and the cherished tradition of NFL football. The 2024 Thanksgiving lineup offers fans a thrilling triple-header featuring classic rivalries and pivotal matchups. Here’s an in-depth guide to the games, including schedules, viewing options, and key storylines.

2024 NFL Thanksgiving Day Schedule

Time (ET) Matchup Venue Broadcast Network
12:30 PM Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions Ford Field, Detroit, MI CBS
4:30 PM New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX FOX
8:20 PM Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI NBC

Game Previews

Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions

  • Overview: The Detroit Lions (10-1) host the Chicago Bears (4-7) in the day’s opening game. The Lions, boasting the league’s top-scoring offense, aim to continue their dominance. The Bears, led by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, seek an upset to rejuvenate their season.
  • Key Players:
    • Lions: Quarterback Jared Goff orchestrates a high-powered offense featuring running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, who have combined for over 2,000 yards and 22 touchdowns. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown leads the team with 71 receptions for 747 yards and nine touchdowns.
    • Bears: Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall draft pick, has shown flashes of brilliance, completing 233 of 372 passes for 2,356 yards and 11 touchdowns, along with 339 rushing yards.
  • Broadcast Team: Jim Nantz (play-by-play), Tony Romo (analyst), and Tracy Wolfson (sideline reporter).

New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys

  • Overview: The Dallas Cowboys (4-7) face the New York Giants (2-9) in a classic NFC East rivalry. Both teams are striving to improve their standings, with the Cowboys looking to leverage home-field advantage.
  • Key Players:
    • Cowboys: Quarterback Dak Prescott leads the offense, supported by running back Tony Pollard and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
    • Giants: Quarterback Drew Lock makes his first start, aiming to revitalize the Giants’ offense alongside running back Saquon Barkley.
  • Broadcast Team: Kevin Burkhardt (play-by-play), Tom Brady (analyst), Erin Andrews and Tom Rinaldi (sideline reporters).

Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers

  • Overview: The night concludes with the Miami Dolphins (5-6) visiting the Green Bay Packers (8-3). The Packers aim to solidify their playoff position, while the Dolphins seek to extend their winning streak.
  • Key Players:
    • Packers: Quarterback Jordan Love has been instrumental in the team’s success, connecting with wide receivers Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs.
    • Dolphins: Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa leads a dynamic offense featuring wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
  • Broadcast Team: Mike Tirico (play-by-play), Jason Garrett (analyst), and Melissa Stark (sideline reporter).

Viewing Options

  • Television: The games will be broadcast on CBS, FOX, and NBC, respectively.
  • Streaming: Fans can stream the games live through services such as FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV, which offer access to the respective networks. Some services provide free trials for new users.
  • International Viewing: International fans can watch the games through platforms like DAZN, which offers NFL coverage in various countries.

Historical Context

The tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving dates back to 1934, with the Detroit Lions hosting games on this day. The Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966. These games have become a staple of the holiday, offering fans a blend of football and festivity.

Additional Notes

  • Black Friday Game: This year features a special Black Friday matchup between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs at 3:00 PM ET, available on Prime Video.
  • Fan Engagement: Shows like “Good Morning Football” have adapted to allow hosts to broadcast from home, enhancing the holiday experience for both hosts and viewers.

Conclusion

The 2024 NFL Thanksgiving Day games promise excitement and competitive matchups. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or enjoying the games as part of your holiday tradition, this year’s lineup offers something for everyone. Ensure you have your viewing plans set, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the blend of football and festivity that makes Thanksgiving special.

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