The Detroit Lions and Thanksgiving go together like turkey and stuffing. You just don’t get one without the other. NFL fans for decades now have welcomed the Lions into their homes and have been a part of the holiday’s tradition throughout the years. While the Lions are a staple on Thanksgiving Day, who they play is a revolving door.
Over the years, Detroit has played many teams on the holiday, but some more than others. With the Green Bay Packers on deck this year, one may wonder just how many times the Packers have played the Lions in this great NFL tradition. Let’s take a closer look.
Lions vs. Packers on Thanksgiving
The Lions have played on every Thanksgiving since 1934 and have a record of 37-44-2 during that time. Of those 83 matchups, the Lions have hosted the Packers 21 times, with Detroit owning the Thanksgiving Day bragging rights. They are 12-8-1 against Green Bay on the holiday.
Overall, the Packers have played on Thanksgiving 36 times and have an overall record of 14-20-2. It’s the first time Green Bay has played on the holiday since it hosted the Bears in 2015 and the first time at Detroit since 2013. Thursday marks the 22nd meeting between the two division rivals and another chance for the Packers to close the gap on the record for the day.
Another Big Opportunity for the Lions
The Lions are currently 8-2 and playing like one of the best teams in the NFL. However, for some reason, they seem to fly under the radar as some choose to talk about the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys when they discuss the NFC powers.
Thanksgiving provides an opportunity to make a statement on a national stage. When the whole world is watching, and you’re the only game on, all eyes will be on Detroit to see how they handle an inferior division rival.
A quality performance on a big stage will go a long way in cementing their legitimacy and waking up those who may have been sleeping on them.
As for the Packers, Green Bay is still clawing and fighting for a Wild Card spot. If they can come into Detroit and knock off a good Lions team, it could be the turning point that starts a run toward the playoffs.
MORE: Why Do the Cowboys and Lions Always Play on Thanksgiving?
A lot is on the line on Thursday for both teams. All we the fans have to do is grab a plate of food and enjoy.
From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!
