Thanksgiving is a day that brings families and friends together to celebrate and give thanks. It is a time for delicious food, quality time with loved ones, and of course, football. For many Americans, watching football on Thanksgiving has become a beloved tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. But have you ever wondered how this tradition started? In this article, we will delve into the history of Thanksgiving football and explore how it has become an integral part of the holiday.
1. Origins of Thanksgiving Football
Thanksgiving as a national holiday dates back to 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln declared it a day of “thanksgiving and praise” to be celebrated every year on the last Thursday of November. However, the origins of Thanksgiving football can be traced back even further.
The First Thanksgiving Game
The first recorded Thanksgiving football game took place in 1869 between Rutgers and Princeton University. This game was not played on Thanksgiving Day but was, in fact, a college football match held on November 6th. The game ended in a scoreless tie, but it marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition.
The Birth of Professional Football
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, American football began to gain popularity, with professional teams forming and competing against each other. As the sport grew in popularity, so did the idea of playing football on Thanksgiving Day. In 1892, the Allegheny Athletic Association played the Pittsburgh Athletic Club in what is considered the first professional football game on Thanksgiving. This game set the stage for future Thanksgiving football games and paved the way for the creation of the National Football League (NFL) in 1920.
2. Early Years of Thanksgiving Football
In the early years of Thanksgiving football, the games were primarily played between local or regional teams. These games were popular among fans, and the excitement surrounding them grew each year. In 1920, the NFL began to schedule Thanksgiving Day games as part of their regular season.
Detroit Lions
In 1934, the Detroit Lions (then known as the Portsmouth Spartans) played their first Thanksgiving Day game against the Chicago Bears. This was a significant moment for the NFL, as it marked the first time a regular-season game was played on Thanksgiving. This tradition has continued for over 80 years, with the Detroit Lions hosting a Thanksgiving Day game every year except during World War II.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966 when the NFL introduced a second game on Thanksgiving Day. The Cowboys’ then-team owner, Clint Murchison Jr., wanted to create a new tradition for the team, and thus, the Thanksgiving Day game was born. This decision proved to be a successful one, as the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving game became an instant hit and quickly became a staple for the team.
3. Impact of Television on Thanksgiving Football
One of the main reasons why Thanksgiving football became so popular is due to its broadcast on national television. In 1939, NBC aired the first Thanksgiving Day game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers. This broadcast allowed fans from all over the country to watch the game, creating a national interest in Thanksgiving football.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Another significant factor that propelled Thanksgiving football into the spotlight was the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Since 1924, this parade has been a beloved tradition, with millions of people tuning in to watch the festive floats and performances. In 1952, NBC began to air the parade, which led to them also broadcasting the first Thanksgiving Day game between the Detroit Lions and the Green Bay Packers.
4. Memorable Moments in Thanksgiving Football History
Over the years, Thanksgiving Day football games have given us many unforgettable moments. From record-breaking performances to historic games, Thanksgiving has become a day to remember in the world of football.
“The Miracle at the Meadowlands”
In 1978, the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants faced off on Thanksgiving Day. The game was tied with just 31 seconds left when the Eagles’ quarterback, Joe Pisarcik, attempted a handoff that went awry. The ball bounced off the running back’s hands, and the Giants’ defensive back, Herman Edwards, scooped it up and ran 26 yards for the game-winning touchdown. This moment is often referred to as “The Miracle at the Meadowlands” and is considered one of the most significant comebacks in NFL history.
Barry Sanders’ Record-Breaking Run
In 1997, Detroit Lions’ running back, Barry Sanders, broke the record for the most rushing yards in a Thanksgiving Day game. He rushed for 167 yards and three touchdowns, leading his team to a 55-20 victory over the Chicago Bears. This record remains unbroken today and is another memorable moment in Thanksgiving football history.
5. Thanksgiving Football Today
Thanksgiving football has become a staple in American households, with millions of people tuning in to watch the games every year. In recent years, the NFL has expanded the number of games played on Thanksgiving, with three games now being played instead of two.
Third Game Added
In 2006, the NFL introduced a third game to be played on Thanksgiving, featuring a rotating schedule of different teams each year. This decision was made to give more teams the opportunity to play on this special day, and it has been well received by fans.
Thanksgiving Day Halftime Show
Since 2011, the NFL has also incorporated a halftime show into the Thanksgiving Day games, similar to the one seen during the Super Bowl. These shows feature popular artists and bring an extra level of entertainment to the day’s festivities.
6. Thanksgiving Football Traditions
Thanksgiving football has become more than just a game; it has become a tradition that brings families and loved ones together. Many families make it a point to gather around the TV and watch their favorite teams play, while others may even attend the games in person.
Tailgating
One of the most beloved traditions associated with Thanksgiving football is tailgating. Fans arrive hours before the game, set up grills and chairs, and enjoy delicious food and drinks while waiting for kickoff. This pre-game ritual has become a staple at stadiums across the country, creating a unique and festive atmosphere.
Family Rivalries
Another tradition that has developed over the years is the friendly rivalry between family members or friends who support opposing teams. Whether it’s siblings, cousins, or in-laws, Thanksgiving can become a time for good-natured ribbing and banter between fans of different teams.
Giving Thanks
While football is undoubtedly the main attraction on Thanksgiving, it is also a day to give thanks and express gratitude. Many players and teams use this platform to give back to their communities by hosting charity events or donating to those in need. It is a reminder that there is more to Thanksgiving than just football.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thanksgiving football is a tradition that has stood the test of time and continues to bring people together every year. From its humble beginnings in college football to becoming a national holiday tradition, Thanksgiving football has become an important part of American culture. As we celebrate this holiday with our loved ones, let us not forget the history behind this cherished tradition and the impact it has had on the sport of football. So, grab some snacks, put on your team’s jersey, and enjoy the Thanksgiving Day games with your family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!
