FLOSSI, LIONS, BEARS, COWBOYS, DOLPHINS
The tradition of the Dallas Cowboys and the Detroit Lions playing on Thanksgiving Day has deep historical and promotional roots in NFL history. Here's why these teams became Thanksgiving Day staples:
The Detroit Lions: Pioneers of Thanksgiving Football
1934: The Tradition Begins
The Lions' Thanksgiving Day tradition started in 1934. George A. Richards, the team owner, wanted to boost attendance and generate publicity for his newly relocated team (from Portsmouth, Ohio, to Detroit).
Richards, who also owned a radio station affiliated with NBC, used his connections to secure a national radio broadcast of the game. This broadcast brought widespread attention to the event.
That first Thanksgiving game saw the Lions face the Chicago Bears in front of a sellout crowd at University of Detroit Stadium, cementing the tradition.
Why It Stuck
The Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving game every year since 1934, except during World War II (1939–1944). The consistent scheduling turned Detroit into an annual Thanksgiving football destination.
The tradition became a source of pride for the city, even during tough economic times.
The Dallas Cowboys: Joining the Tradition
1966: Cowboys Enter the Scene
The Cowboys began playing on Thanksgiving in 1966, when the NFL sought to expand the Thanksgiving lineup with a second game. The league approached Dallas, which was still a relatively young franchise, established in 1960.
Tex Schramm, the Cowboys' general manager, agreed, seeing it as an opportunity to boost the team's profile nationally.
Immediate Success
The Cowboys’ first Thanksgiving game, against the Cleveland Browns, drew a record crowd of over 80,000 fans and millions of TV viewers, proving the move's success.
Why They Stayed
The Cowboys, known as "America's Team," brought star power and popularity to Thanksgiving Day football. Their games consistently drew high ratings, ensuring the continuation of the tradition.
Modern-Day Thanksgiving NFL Tradition
Dual Games and Expanding Viewership
The Lions always play the early afternoon game, while the Cowboys host the late afternoon game. Since 2006, a primetime Thanksgiving game has been added, featuring rotating teams.
Cultural Significance
Thanksgiving games featuring the Lions and Cowboys are now a beloved American tradition. For many, football is as integral to the holiday as turkey and pumpkin pie.
Summary
The Lions initiated the Thanksgiving tradition in 1934 to promote their team, and the Cowboys joined in 1966 to boost their profile. Their consistent participation and the NFL's growing popularity have made these games a Thanksgiving Day institution.