Who Plays Thanksgiving Football? NFL Teams & Schedule

By Sarah Miller · December 20, 2031

Three NFL teams traditionally play on Thanksgiving Day: the Detroit Lions, the Dallas Cowboys, and a rotating third team selected by the league. This annual tradition features two fixed games hosted by Detroit and Dallas, plus one prime-time matchup that changes each year.

History of Thanksgiving Football

The NFL's Thanksgiving Day games have been a staple of American holiday tradition since the 1930s. The custom began as a way to bring families together not only around the dinner table but also around the television.

Origins of the Tradition

The Detroit Lions hosted their first Thanksgiving game in 1934 to increase national exposure for the franchise.
The Dallas Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966, aiming to boost their profile and draw fans nationwide.
Both teams now have long-standing contracts with the NFL to host games annually on Thanksgiving.

Teams That Play on Thanksgiving

Each year, three NFL games are scheduled on Thanksgiving Day, featuring a consistent rotation of teams.

Detroit Lions' Role

The Lions have played on Thanksgiving every year since 1934, except during World War II (1939–1944). Their early afternoon game is a longstanding tradition watched by millions.

Dallas Cowboys' Involvement

Dallas has hosted a Thanksgiving game annually since 1966. Their mid-afternoon matchup draws one of the highest viewership numbers of the regular season.

The Rotating Third Game

The third game, played in prime time, features a different pair of teams each year. The NFL selects these matchups to maximize national interest and competitive appeal.

Year	Lions Opponent	Cowboys Opponent	Prime Time Matchup
2023	Chicago Bears	Washington Commanders	Baltimore Ravens vs. San Francisco 49ers
2022	Buffalo Bills	New York Giants	Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers
2021	Minnesota Vikings	New Orleans Saints	Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders
2020	Houston Texans	Washington Football Team	Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New Orleans Saints
2019	Chicago Bears	Philadelphia Eagles	Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows consistent participation from the Lions and Cowboys, while the prime-time game rotates among top-tier teams to maintain viewer engagement. Recent selections include high-profile franchises like the Ravens, 49ers, and Chiefs, indicating the league's focus on competitive appeal and national ratings. Matchups are often chosen based on current-season performance and rivalry potential.

How Teams Are Selected

The NFL schedules Thanksgiving games months in advance, balancing fan interest, broadcast logistics, and competitive balance.

The Lions and Cowboys are permanent hosts due to historic agreements.
The third game is awarded to teams with strong fan bases or compelling storylines.
Recent trends favor playoff-contending teams to heighten excitement.
Matchups may also promote emerging rivalries or showcase star players.

Thanksgiving Football FAQs

Who plays Thanksgiving football in 2025?

The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys will host games, with opponents to be announced by the NFL in its annual schedule release. The prime-time game will feature another marquee matchup determined by league officials.

Why do the Lions and Cowboys play every Thanksgiving?

The Lions started playing in 1934 to boost popularity, and the Cowboys followed in 1966. Both teams now have formal arrangements with the NFL to host games annually, making them central to the holiday tradition.

How many games are played on Thanksgiving?

There are three NFL games played on Thanksgiving Day: one in the early afternoon (Lions), one in the late afternoon (Cowboys), and one in prime time featuring a rotating matchup.