Thanksgiving Football Games 2023: How to Watch
The Tradition of Thanksgiving Football
Thanksgiving football is a time-honored tradition that began in 1876 with a college game between Yale and Princeton. The NFL took up the mantle in 1920, with the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys becoming fixtures on Thanksgiving Day. The games are not just about the sport but are woven into the fabric of the holiday, providing a backdrop to the Thanksgiving meal and family time.
2023 Thanksgiving Football Schedule
The NFL has scheduled three games for Thanksgiving Day in 2023, featuring some of the league’s most popular teams and star players. Here’s a breakdown of the games:
Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions
Time: 12:30 PM ET
Network: Fox
The Lions have been a Thanksgiving staple since 1934, and they kick off the holiday action at Ford Field against their division rivals, the Green Bay Packers. This NFC North showdown promises to be a hard-fought battle, with both teams looking to make a statement in the playoff race.Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys
Time: 4:30 PM ET
Network: CBS
The Cowboys are another Thanksgiving mainstay, hosting games since 1966. This year, they welcome the Washington Commanders to AT&T Stadium. The Cowboys, with their high-powered offense, are always a draw, and this NFC East clash will have significant implications for the division standings.San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks
Time: 8:20 PM ET
Network: NBC
The Thanksgiving nightcap features a classic NFC West rivalry between the 49ers and the Seahawks. With both teams known for their intense defenses and dynamic playmakers, this game is sure to be a thrilling conclusion to the holiday’s football festivities.
How to Watch the Games
In 2023, watching Thanksgiving football is easier than ever, thanks to a variety of viewing options across different platforms. Here’s how you can catch all the action:
Cable and Satellite TV: If you have a traditional cable or satellite TV subscription, you can watch the games on Fox, CBS, and NBC. Check your local listings for the exact channel numbers.
Streaming Services: For those who have cut the cord, several streaming services offer access to the networks broadcasting the games. Services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV all include Fox, CBS, and NBC in their channel lineups. Most of these services offer a free trial, so you can sign up and watch the games without a long-term commitment.
NFL App: The NFL app provides another way to watch the games live on your mobile device. You can download the app on your smartphone or tablet and stream the games for free if you’re in the U.S.
Amazon Prime Video: While Amazon is not broadcasting any of the Thanksgiving Day games in 2023, it’s worth mentioning that they have exclusive rights to "Thursday Night Football" throughout the season. This might be an option for future viewing or for games leading up to Thanksgiving.
International Viewing: If you’re outside the U.S., you can still catch the games. The NFL Game Pass International provides live streaming of all NFL games, including the Thanksgiving matchups. It’s available in most countries and includes features like DVR controls and multi-game viewing.
Special Thanksgiving Broadcasts and Features
Thanksgiving football broadcasts often come with special features that add to the holiday atmosphere. Here are some things to look out for during the games:
Halftime Shows: Each Thanksgiving game typically includes a special halftime performance. These performances are often by big-name musical artists and add an extra layer of entertainment to the football action.
Turkey Leg Award: The tradition of the Turkey Leg Award began with John Madden, who would give a turkey leg to the best player of the game during his Thanksgiving broadcasts. This tradition continues today, with networks often highlighting a standout player after each game.
Charity Initiatives: The NFL and its teams often use the Thanksgiving games to promote charitable causes. Expect to see segments highlighting community outreach programs and charitable donations during the broadcasts.
Making the Most of Thanksgiving Football
Watching football on Thanksgiving is about more than just the games; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. Here are some tips to enhance your Thanksgiving football experience:
Set Up a Viewing Area: Make sure your TV setup is comfortable and accommodates everyone who wants to watch. Arrange seating so that everyone has a good view of the screen, and consider adding extra chairs or pillows for comfort.
Prepare Snacks: In addition to the traditional Thanksgiving meal, having a variety of snacks available during the games can keep everyone satisfied. Consider preparing a spread of finger foods like wings, chips, dips, and sliders that are easy to eat while watching.
Involve the Kids: If you have children who may not be as interested in the games, involve them in the festivities by setting up a small football toss game in the backyard or letting them help prepare snacks.
Friendly Bets: To make the games more engaging, consider setting up friendly bets with your family and friends. Whether it’s predicting the score, the first team to score, or which player will have the most yards, a little competition can add to the excitement.
Halftime Activities: Use halftime as an opportunity to stretch your legs and engage in some fun activities. Whether it’s playing a quick game of touch football outside, taking a walk, or playing a board game, it’s a great way to break up the day and keep everyone entertained.
Thanksgiving Football Across the Decades
Thanksgiving football has seen some unforgettable moments over the years. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable Thanksgiving Day games in NFL history:
1962: The Lions Upset the Packers
The Detroit Lions handed the Green Bay Packers their only loss of the season in a 26-14 victory. The Packers, led by legendary coach Vince Lombardi, were en route to an NFL Championship, making this upset one of the most significant in Thanksgiving history.1974: The "Clint Longley Game"
Known as the "Clint Longley Game," the Cowboys' backup quarterback came off the bench to lead Dallas to a stunning comeback victory over Washington. This game solidified the Cowboys' reputation for Thanksgiving Day heroics.1993: The Leon Lett Blunder
In a snowy game between the Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, Dallas defensive lineman Leon Lett’s attempt to recover a blocked field goal led to one of the most famous blunders in NFL history, allowing Miami to win the game with a last-second field goal.2012: The Butt Fumble
Mark Sanchez’s infamous "butt fumble" during the New York Jets’ game against the New England Patriots remains one of the most talked-about Thanksgiving Day moments. The play epitomized the Jets' struggles that season and has become a staple of NFL blooper reels.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving football in 2023 promises to be an exciting day filled with tradition, rivalry, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy the games as part of the holiday celebration, there are plenty of ways to watch and enjoy the action. From the early game featuring the Lions to the late-night showdown between the 49ers and Seahawks, the NFL’s Thanksgiving lineup has something for everyone. So, gather your family and friends, prepare your favorite snacks, and get ready to enjoy a full day of football that has become as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and pumpkin pie.
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