Thanksgiving Day Football Games: A Comprehensive Guide
Thanksgiving Day in the United States is not just about turkey, family gatherings, and pumpkin pie. It's also a day filled with excitement and rivalry on the football field. From high school to the professional leagues, Thanksgiving Day football games have become a cherished tradition. In this blog post, we'll take a detailed look at the various football games played on this holiday, based on reports and coverage from major media outlets.
1. NFL Games
The National Football League (NFL) has a long history of playing games on Thanksgiving Day. While the tradition has evolved over the years, the Detroit Lions have hosted a game on Thanksgiving every year since 1934, except for a few years during World War II.
The Lions' Thanksgiving Day game is typically broadcast nationwide on CBS or Fox, depending on the year. It's a highly anticipated matchup that often features intense rivalries and playoff implications. In recent years, the NFL has also experimented with scheduling additional games on Thanksgiving, although these are typically played in the afternoon or evening.
2. NCAA Football
College football is also a big part of Thanksgiving Day. Many Division I FBS teams play on this holiday, often in rivalry games that have significant implications for conference championships and bowl game berths.
The most notable Thanksgiving Day college football game is the annual matchup between the University of Michigan and Ohio State University. This game, known as "The Game," is one of the most intense rivalries in college football and often has national championship implications. It's typically broadcast on ABC or ESPN.
Other notable Thanksgiving Day college football games include the Big 12 Championship Game, which pits the top two teams in the conference against each other, and various rivalry games such as the Iron Bowl between Auburn and Alabama.
3. High School Football
While the NFL and college football games get the most attention, high school football is also a big part of Thanksgiving Day. Many high schools schedule their biggest games of the season on this holiday, often against rival schools.
These games are typically played in the morning or afternoon and are attended by large crowds of family, friends, and alumni. Local media outlets often cover these games, providing updates and highlights throughout the day.
4. Streaming Options and Alternative Coverage
If you're not able to watch the games on TV, there are plenty of streaming options available. Most major sports streaming services, such as ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV, offer access to NFL and college football games. Additionally, many local TV stations and newspapers provide live streams or updates on their websites or social media platforms.
For a more unique perspective, you can also check out alternative coverage from various media outlets. For example, some sports radio stations broadcast live from the games, providing commentary and analysis. Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram are also great sources for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Thanksgiving Day football games are a beloved tradition that bring communities together to celebrate the holiday spirit through competition and rivalry. From the NFL to high school fields, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this special day. So grab your favorite team's jersey, invite some friends over, and get ready for an exciting day of football!
