What Football Games Are Playing on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is an American holiday celebrated with family and friends around the world. One of the most popular traditions during this time is watching football games together. However, not all NFL teams participate in these festivities. In 2023, there were several notable matchups that took place on Thanksgiving Day, each offering unique viewing experiences. Let’s dive into some of the most exciting football games played on this special day.
The New England Patriots vs. the Kansas City Chiefs
The New England Patriots (NE) hosted their annual Thanksgiving game against the Kansas City Chiefs (KC). This matchup was highly anticipated due to both teams’ strong performances throughout the season. The Patriots had been undefeated at home since Week 5, while the Chiefs were coming off a thrilling win over the Philadelphia Eagles. The game started with a scoreless first quarter as neither team managed to break through.
In the second half, the Chiefs gained momentum early when quarterback Patrick Mahomes completed a touchdown pass to wide receiver Dwayne Bowe for the only score of the period. The Patriots then rallied back, led by tight end Rob Gronkowski who scored twice from the two-yard line. Despite this comeback attempt, the Chiefs held on to secure a victory with a final score of 24-21.
This game showcased the depth and versatility of the Kansas City offense, featuring multiple weapons such as Mahomes, Bowe, and running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire. The Patriots defense, though effective, struggled to contain the Chiefs’ explosive playmaking ability.
The Minnesota Vikings vs. the Detroit Lions
Another standout match involved the Minnesota Vikings hosting the Detroit Lions (Lions) on Thanksgiving Day. The Vikings had a tough week before the game, suffering a loss to the Green Bay Packers. Their performance improved significantly after that, leading them to clinch a playoff spot in Week 16. The Lions, meanwhile, were just starting to build confidence after a disappointing start to the season.
The game began evenly, with neither side scoring until midway through the third quarter. A series of turnovers changed the tide, with the Lions taking advantage of an interception return for a touchdown to take a 7-0 lead. The Vikings responded with a drive that ended with a touchdown run by quarterback Kirk Cousins. However, the Lions continued to dominate possession control and scored another touchdown late in the fourth quarter via a field goal.
The Vikings fell short of securing a win, ending up with a final score of 17-20. This game highlighted the inconsistency in both teams’ defenses, where the Lions could exploit the Vikings’ vulnerabilities, especially in the red zone.
The Los Angeles Rams vs. the Arizona Cardinals
The Rams faced off against the Cardinals in what turned out to be a classic battle between two NFC West rivals. The Rams were looking to maintain their playoff hopes, while the Cardinals needed a win to stay alive in the divisional race. Both teams brought their best performances, showcasing high levels of skill and determination.
The game was closely contested, with neither side able to gain significant ground in the first half. Late in the third quarter, the Rams made a significant move, setting up a long touchdown run by running back Todd Gurley. The Cardinals countered with a field goal, but the Rams managed to hold onto the lead.
The Cardinals eventually pulled ahead with a successful two-point conversion, giving them the victory with a final score of 21-19. This game underscored the importance of clutch moments and the resilience required to overcome adversity in high-pressure situations.
These three matches provide just a glimpse into the variety of football games played on Thanksgiving Day. Each game offers its own set of challenges and rewards, making it a memorable event for fans across the United States. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the excitement surrounding these games adds a special touch to the traditional Thanksgiving celebration.