Cowboys Thanksgiving Game: A Turkey Day Tradition

Thanksgiving Day is synonymous with family, food, and, for many Americans, football. And when it comes to Thanksgiving football, one team stands out: the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys Thanksgiving game has become a beloved tradition, a staple of the holiday festivities that brings families together in front of the television. But how did this tradition begin, and why have the Cowboys become so closely associated with Thanksgiving Day football?

The History of the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game

The history of the Cowboys Thanksgiving game dates back to 1966. That year, the Cowboys, then a relatively young franchise, were looking for ways to increase their exposure and popularity. Team General Manager, Tex Schramm, approached the NFL with the idea of hosting a Thanksgiving Day game. The league, looking for ways to expand its audience, agreed, and the Cowboys were granted the opportunity to host the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day.

At the time, the Lions had already established themselves as a Thanksgiving Day tradition, having played on the holiday since 1934. However, Schramm argued that the Cowboys, with their growing fanbase and national appeal, could draw an even larger audience. The NFL took a gamble, and it paid off handsomely. The 1966 game between the Cowboys and the Lions was a huge success, drawing a large television audience and solidifying the Cowboys as a team to watch.

The first Cowboys Thanksgiving game was a resounding victory for Dallas, who defeated the Lions 31-14. The game not only showcased the Cowboys' talent but also marked the beginning of a Thanksgiving Day tradition that would continue for decades to come. From that moment on, the Cowboys became a fixture of Thanksgiving Day football, hosting a game every year except for two seasons (1975 and 1977) when the St. Louis Cardinals were given the opportunity. The reason for the two-year hiatus was due to the Cowboys having already received considerable national television exposure. Granting other teams the opportunity to host a Thanksgiving game allowed the league to spread the popularity and revenue.

Why the Cowboys and Thanksgiving are a Perfect Match

Several factors contribute to the perfect match between the Cowboys and Thanksgiving. First and foremost, the Cowboys have a massive and dedicated fanbase that stretches across the United States. Their status as "America's Team" makes them a natural draw for a national television audience on Thanksgiving Day. People from all walks of life, regardless of their allegiance to other teams, tune in to watch the Cowboys play on Thanksgiving.

Secondly, the Cowboys' home stadium, AT&T Stadium (formerly Cowboys Stadium), provides a grand and festive backdrop for the Thanksgiving Day game. The stadium's massive size and state-of-the-art amenities create an atmosphere of excitement and spectacle that enhances the viewing experience for fans both in attendance and at home. The stadium has become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day football, further solidifying the Cowboys' association with the holiday.

Another important factor is the tradition itself. For many families, watching the Cowboys play on Thanksgiving has become an integral part of their holiday celebrations. It's a tradition passed down through generations, creating a sense of nostalgia and shared experience. The Cowboys Thanksgiving game provides a sense of continuity and predictability in a world that is constantly changing. Knowing that the Cowboys will be on the field on Thanksgiving Day is a comforting thought for many football fans.

Memorable Cowboys Thanksgiving Games

Over the years, there have been many memorable Cowboys Thanksgiving games. These games have provided fans with unforgettable moments of excitement, drama, and holiday cheer. Here are just a few examples:

• 1998 vs. Minnesota Vikings: This game is remembered for Randy Moss's historic performance. The rookie receiver torched the Cowboys' defense for three touchdowns, leading the Vikings to a dominant 46-36 victory. Moss's performance on Thanksgiving Day catapulted him into superstardom and solidified his place as one of the greatest receivers in NFL history.
• 2006 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: This game featured a dramatic comeback by the Cowboys, led by quarterback Tony Romo. After falling behind by 14 points in the fourth quarter, Romo led the Cowboys on two late touchdown drives to secure a 38-35 victory. The game showcased Romo's leadership and clutch performance abilities, further endearing him to Cowboys fans.
• 2014 vs. Philadelphia Eagles: This game was a high-stakes divisional matchup with significant playoff implications. The Cowboys defeated the Eagles 33-10 in a dominant performance, solidifying their position atop the NFC East standings. The victory was particularly sweet for Cowboys fans, as it came against their arch-rivals on Thanksgiving Day.
• 2016 vs. Washington Redskins: A game that saw the Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott rookie duo shine. The Cowboys won a close game 31-26, with Elliott rushing for 97 yards and two touchdowns. This game was a key victory in a season where the Cowboys went on to have a 13-3 record.

The Impact of the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game

The impact of the Cowboys Thanksgiving game extends far beyond the football field. The game has become a major cultural event, attracting a large television audience and generating significant revenue for the NFL and the Cowboys. It also provides a platform for charitable initiatives and community outreach programs.

The Cowboys have used their Thanksgiving Day platform to support various charitable causes, including the Salvation Army. The team's partnership with the Salvation Army has raised millions of dollars for those in need, providing food, shelter, and other essential services to families during the holiday season. The Cowboys' commitment to giving back to the community has made their Thanksgiving Day game even more meaningful.

The Cowboys Thanksgiving game is more than just a football game; it's a celebration of tradition, family, and community. It's a time when people come together to enjoy the sport they love and to give thanks for the blessings in their lives. As long as the Cowboys continue to play on Thanksgiving Day, the tradition will continue to thrive, bringing joy and excitement to millions of fans across the country.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game

As we look to the future, the Cowboys Thanksgiving game seems secure as a permanent fixture on the NFL calendar. The tradition is deeply ingrained in American culture, and the Cowboys' popularity ensures that the game will continue to draw a large audience for years to come. However, the NFL is constantly evolving, and there may be changes to the Thanksgiving Day schedule in the future. One possibility is that the league could add a third Thanksgiving Day game, featuring another popular team. This would provide even more football for fans to enjoy on the holiday, but it could also dilute the specialness of the Cowboys' tradition.

Another potential change is the location of the Cowboys Thanksgiving game. While the game has been played in Dallas for most of its history, there is always the possibility that the NFL could move it to another city, perhaps as part of an international series. However, this seems unlikely, given the strong association between the Cowboys and the city of Dallas. The game is a major economic driver for the city, and local officials would likely fight hard to keep it in place.

Regardless of any changes that may occur, the Cowboys Thanksgiving game will continue to be a special event for football fans across the country. It's a tradition that brings people together, creates lasting memories, and celebrates the spirit of Thanksgiving. So, gather your family and friends, prepare your favorite Thanksgiving dishes, and settle in to watch the Cowboys play on Turkey Day. It's a tradition you won't want to miss!