The NFL’s Thanksgiving Day tradition continues in 2024, with three matchups on the holiday. Here’s everything you need to know about the NFL Thanksgiving Games this year, including the full schedule, kickoff times, and broadcast channels.
2024 NFL Thanksgiving Games Schedule
The NFL has played games on Thanksgiving Day since the league’s inception in 1920, meaning this tradition dates back more than 100 years. This year, fans will be able to enjoy three divisional matchups. Here’s the complete schedule for the NFL Thanksgiving Games:
Game 1: Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions
- Time: 12:30 PM ET
- Channel: CBS/Paramount+
Game 2: New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
- Time: 4:30 PM ET
- Channel: FOX
Game 3: Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers
- Time: 8:20 PM ET
- Channel: NBC/Peacock
The day kicks off with the Detroit Lions, a Thanksgiving tradition since 1934. Jared Goff and Co. will take on No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears.
Then, CeeDee Lamb and the Dallas Cowboys will take center stage, a custom dating back to 1966. The Cowboys will face the New York Giants in the afternoon slot.
Finally, the evening game features a thrilling primetime showdown between the Miami Dolphins and Green Bay Packers, rounding out a football-filled holiday.
How to Watch the NFL Thanksgiving Games 2024
There are several ways to tune in to this year’s NFL Thanksgiving Games:
- Cable/Satellite: CBS, FOX, and NBC will air the three games (in that order), ensuring wide accessibility for traditional TV viewers.
- Streaming: Paramount+ will air the Bears-Lions game, while Peacock will broadcast the Dolphins-Packers contest.
- Other Options: For cord-cutters, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV offer live access to the games. Some streaming services offer free trials for new users, which allow you to watch the games without a subscription.
What Makes NFL Thanksgiving Games Special?
For many NFL fans, watching football is part of their Thanksgiving routine. But it’s more than just a tradition, as it unites fans and families across the country.
Teams often don special uniforms, while halftime shows and community-focused events add to the festive atmosphere. For the Lions and Cowboys, hosting games on Thanksgiving is a cornerstone of their identity.
Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or simply enjoying the spectacle, the NFL Thanksgiving Games are a holiday highlight.
Why Do the Lions and Cowboys Always Play on Thanksgiving?
The Lions started the tradition in 1934 as a way to boost attendance. The Cowboys joined in 1966, bringing their own unique flair to Thanksgiving football. Dallas has played on Thanksgiving every year since 1966 with two exceptions: 1975 and 1977. In 2006, a third prime-time game was added to the Thanksgiving slate, but the teams change every year.
How Are the Thanksgiving Matchups Decided?
The NFL schedule-makers determine the matchups with the goal of scheduling competitive games that will maximize viewer interest, balancing rivalries, playoff stakes, and fan-favorite teams.