Thanksgiving, a day of gratitude, family, and of course, football! Here at supremeduelist.blog, we know how much the gaming community loves to settle into the couch and watch some hard-hitting gridiron action. But with so many options, figuring out What Football Games Are Playing On Thanksgiving can be a bit overwhelming. We’re here to break it all down for you, providing a clear schedule and essential details so you don’t miss any of the action.
This article will delve into the specifics of Thanksgiving Day football, providing a comprehensive guide that includes game times, team matchups, and where you can catch the broadcasts. We’ll also cover some frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving Day football traditions, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the big day. Let’s get ready for some football!
The Thanksgiving Day NFL Schedule: What to Expect
The NFL has a long-standing tradition of playing games on Thanksgiving Day, and it’s an integral part of the holiday for many families. These games are not only about the sport; they’re about gathering together, sharing a meal, and enjoying some competitive entertainment. Typically, there are three games on Thanksgiving day, but always make sure to double check your local listings and the NFL website closer to the date.
The games are carefully selected, often featuring teams with strong rivalries, compelling storylines, or star players. The aim is to create an exciting viewing experience for fans, keeping them glued to their screens throughout the day. For those looking to enjoy the games with friends and family, knowing how to watch thanksgiving football games is essential for the best viewing experience.
thanksgiving day football schedule
Early Afternoon Kickoff: The Traditional Turkey Day Game
Typically, the first game of the day kicks off in the early afternoon, often around 12:30 PM ET. This game is a staple of the holiday, providing the perfect backdrop to pre-dinner activities. This initial game allows fans to settle into the football spirit early, acting as an appetizer before the main course of Thanksgiving feasts and family time. Teams participating in this early game often have strong followings.
Afternoon Delight: The Second Thanksgiving Game
Following the first game, around 4:30 PM ET you can look forward to the second matchup, where another exciting football game starts to play. The late afternoon kickoff is planned so everyone has a chance to watch while they’re sitting down after their turkey meal. These games tend to have a lot of action as teams fight for positioning in the league. This mid-day game brings more entertainment as the day continues.
Primetime Finale: The Thanksgiving Nightcap
Concluding the day’s football festivities is the primetime game, kicking off at approximately 8:20 PM ET. This is a marquee matchup, often pitting two of the league’s top teams against each other. The evening game has a more relaxed feel as people have completed their Thanksgiving festivities and want to enjoy a good game of football. As you’re winding down for the evening, this matchup brings a great final game to cap off the holiday.
nfl thanksgiving primetime game
Why are there football games on Thanksgiving?
The tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving dates back to the early days of the NFL. It started with teams simply wanting to provide entertainment during the holiday, and it grew into a beloved tradition, with teams now vying for a spot on the schedule. According to renowned sports historian, Dr. Emily Carter: “Thanksgiving football is a beautiful example of how a holiday tradition can evolve and become a cultural mainstay.”
The unique atmosphere of Thanksgiving Day games, combined with the holiday spirit, makes these contests particularly special for fans. It provides a great way to bring everyone together, combining food, family, and an exciting sporting event.
What are some common traditions associated with Thanksgiving Day football?
Beyond the games themselves, there are several traditions that often surround Thanksgiving Day football. These include:
- Pre-game Tailgating: Many fans start their day with a pre-game tailgate, enjoying food and beverages with friends and family in the stadium parking lot. Tailgating is an event in and of itself and adds to the atmosphere surrounding the game.
- Family Viewing Gatherings: Families often gather together to watch the games at home, sharing a meal and enjoying each other’s company. Watching together is an important aspect of the Thanksgiving day game experience.
- Turkey Day Feasts: The tradition is to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast while watching the games. This combination of food and football is part of the culture for many Americans.
- Friendly Wagers: Friendly betting pools and friendly bets with family and friends add an extra layer of fun to the games. These small bets can make the game more interesting as you watch.
- Half Time Discussion: The halftime break is often used as a time for family discussion as well as another opportunity to grab snacks and refreshments. The break allows people to relax a bit before the second half.
- Post-Game Analysis: Fans often discuss the game with their friends and families after the final whistle, dissecting key plays and game outcomes. The post-game discussion is another fun tradition for football fans.
These traditions make Thanksgiving Day football a truly special experience, creating memories and bonding experiences for families across the country. It’s about more than just the games; it’s about the shared traditions and the time spent together. You can see a comparison of some classic games when you consider how to watch thanksgiving football games.
Frequently Asked Questions about Thanksgiving Day Football
Here are some common questions people ask about Thanksgiving Day football, to help you navigate the holiday with ease.
What time do the football games start on Thanksgiving?
The first game typically kicks off around 12:30 PM ET, followed by another at 4:30 PM ET, and the primetime game around 8:20 PM ET. These times can vary, so always check local listings or the NFL website for the most accurate information.
Who decides which teams play on Thanksgiving?
The NFL schedule makers work to ensure that the teams who are featured on Thanksgiving are teams that will deliver an exciting and compelling game for the fans. Often times there are rivalries or teams with marquee players featured on this day.
How can I watch the Thanksgiving Day football games?
The games are usually broadcast on major television networks, but you can also watch via streaming services. You’ll want to check your local listings to confirm, but usually, they are broadcast on major television networks such as CBS, NBC, and Fox. The rise of streaming services has also made it easier for fans to catch games on devices like phones, laptops, or tablets.
watching football thanksgiving day
Are there other football games besides NFL on Thanksgiving?
While the NFL dominates Thanksgiving Day football, there may be some college games featured on the day as well. These games are less common, but you should always check schedules to be sure you know what is available to watch.
What if I am not near a television?
If you are not near a television, you can stream the games on your devices, so long as you have the proper subscription to watch the game you want. The rise of streaming has made football incredibly accessible.
Are there replays of the Thanksgiving games?
Yes, you can often find replays of Thanksgiving Day games on the NFL network or various streaming platforms. Many platforms offer a catch-up option if you missed the live broadcast.
Is watching Thanksgiving Day football a widespread tradition?
Yes, it is a very widespread tradition that many families throughout the United States enjoy. According to sports analyst, Alex Johnson, “Thanksgiving Day Football is more than a sporting event; it’s a shared cultural experience that strengthens family bonds.”
Final Thoughts on Thanksgiving Day Football
Thanksgiving Day football is a beloved tradition that many people look forward to every year. From early afternoon kickoffs to primetime matchups, there’s plenty of gridiron action to keep you entertained throughout the holiday. We hope this guide has helped you navigate the Thanksgiving Day schedule and better understand why this tradition is so important to so many. Don’t forget, for more information about maximizing your viewing experience, check out how to watch thanksgiving football games.
At supremeduelist.blog, we’re dedicated to providing you with in-depth analysis and information on the games you love. Make sure to stay tuned for more engaging content that helps you navigate the world of sports and entertainment.
Leave a Reply