Cowboys Thanksgiving Game: A Turkey Day Tradition

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Cowboys Thanksgiving Game: A Turkey Day Tradition

Ah, the Cowboys Thanksgiving game – a tradition as American as apple pie, turkey, and arguing with your relatives about politics. But seriously, folks, is there anything more iconic than watching the Dallas Cowboys battle it out on the gridiron while you're simultaneously battling a food coma? It's a spectacle that unites families (and sometimes divides them, depending on who they're rooting for). Whether you're a die-hard Cowboys fan or just a casual observer, the Thanksgiving game is a cultural phenomenon that's hard to ignore. So, grab your plate, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and let's dive into what makes this game so special.

The History of Cowboys Thanksgiving Games

The Dallas Cowboys and Thanksgiving have a long and storied history, dating all the way back to 1966. That year, the Cowboys, then a relatively young franchise, decided to take a gamble and host a game on Thanksgiving Day. The move was a bold one, as Thanksgiving Day football was traditionally the domain of the Detroit Lions. But Cowboys general manager Tex Schramm saw an opportunity to showcase his team to a national audience, and he seized it. The game was a resounding success, with the Cowboys defeating the Cleveland Browns in front of a packed house at the Cotton Bowl. The atmosphere was electric, and the television ratings were through the roof. From that moment on, the Cowboys Thanksgiving game became an annual tradition, cementing its place in NFL lore.

Over the years, the Cowboys have played a ton of memorable Thanksgiving games. There was the "Leon Lett Game" in 1993, where the Cowboys defensive lineman infamously touched a blocked field goal attempt, allowing the Miami Dolphins to recover the ball and kick the game-winning field goal. Ouch! Then there was the 1998 game against the Minnesota Vikings, where rookie wide receiver Randy Moss torched the Cowboys defense for three touchdowns, announcing his arrival as a superstar. And who can forget the 2016 game against the Washington Redskins, where Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott led the Cowboys to a thrilling overtime victory? These are just a few of the many classic moments that have made the Cowboys Thanksgiving game so special.

Why the Cowboys Always Play on Thanksgiving

You might be wondering, why do the Cowboys always get to play on Thanksgiving? Well, there are a few reasons. First and foremost, it's about tradition. As we mentioned earlier, the Cowboys have been hosting a Thanksgiving game every year since 1966 (with a couple of exceptions). It's become a part of the fabric of the holiday, and fans have come to expect it. The NFL recognizes the importance of this tradition, and they're not about to mess with a good thing. Beyond tradition, television ratings are also a huge factor. The Cowboys are one of the most popular teams in the NFL, and their Thanksgiving games consistently draw massive audiences. This is a major selling point for advertisers, who are willing to pay big bucks to reach such a large audience. Simply put, the Cowboys Thanksgiving game is a cash cow for the NFL, and they're not going to give that up anytime soon.

Another factor is the Cowboys' brand. They are "America's Team," and their presence on Thanksgiving Day aligns perfectly with that image. The holiday is all about family, tradition, and, of course, football. The Cowboys embody all of these things, and their Thanksgiving game is a celebration of American culture. It's a chance for fans to come together, enjoy a delicious meal, and watch their favorite team play. It's a win-win for everyone involved.

Memorable Moments from Cowboys Thanksgiving Games

Let's take a stroll down memory lane and relive some of the most memorable moments from Cowboys Thanksgiving games:

  • The Leon Lett Game (1993): We already mentioned this one, but it's worth repeating. With the Cowboys leading the Dolphins by one point in the final seconds, the Dolphins attempted a field goal. The kick was blocked, and Leon Lett, in a moment of inexplicable brain freeze, tried to recover the ball instead of letting it go out of bounds. He slipped, touched the ball, and the Dolphins recovered, kicking the game-winning field goal. A Thanksgiving blunder for the ages!
  • Randy Moss's Thanksgiving Feast (1998): The rookie wide receiver had a field day against the Cowboys defense, catching three touchdown passes and racking up 163 receiving yards. It was a performance that cemented his status as a future Hall of Famer.
  • Troy Aikman's Performance Against the Bears (1992): Troy Aikman had a stellar performance on Thanksgiving 1992 against the Chicago Bears completing 20 of 26 passes for 255 yards and two touchdowns. His performance led the Cowboys to a 27-14 victory over the Bears, further solidifying the Cowboys' dominance in the early 1990s.
  • The Dak and Zeke Show (2016): Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott, in their rookie seasons, led the Cowboys to a thrilling overtime victory against the Washington Redskins. Prescott threw for 195 yards and one touchdown, while Elliott ran for 97 yards and added two touchdowns, leading the Cowboys to a 31-26 win.
  • Emmitt Smith Becomes All-Time Leading Rusher (2002): In a game against the Seattle Seahawks, Emmitt Smith broke Walter Payton's all-time rushing record, becoming the NFL's all-time leading rusher. Although the Cowboys lost the game, Smith's record-breaking achievement was a momentous occasion that was celebrated by fans and players alike.

What to Expect from the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game

So, what can you expect from a Cowboys Thanksgiving game? Well, first and foremost, you can expect a whole lot of football. The game is typically a high-scoring affair, with both teams eager to put on a show for the national audience. You can also expect a lot of pageantry, with pregame and halftime performances that are sure to entertain. And, of course, you can expect a lot of food. Thanksgiving is all about feasting, and the Cowboys game is the perfect excuse to indulge in all your favorite holiday treats. But in terms of the actual game, it's tough to say what to expect. The Cowboys have been known to win big, lose big, and everything in between on Thanksgiving Day. That's part of what makes the game so exciting. You never know what's going to happen, but you can be sure that it will be memorable.

Whether the Dallas Cowboys are contenders or not, the Thanksgiving game always brings a unique atmosphere. The energy from the crowd combined with the holiday spirit creates an unforgettable experience, whether you're at the game or watching from home. It's a time to put aside rivalries (at least for a few hours) and enjoy the shared love of football.

How to Enjoy the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game

Okay, so you're all set to watch the Cowboys Thanksgiving game. But how can you make the most of the experience? Here are a few tips:

  • Get your snacks ready: No Thanksgiving game is complete without a delicious spread of food. Whether you're a traditionalist who sticks to turkey and stuffing, or you prefer to mix things up with some more creative dishes, make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand to keep you fueled throughout the game.
  • Invite your friends and family: The Cowboys Thanksgiving game is best enjoyed with company. Invite your friends and family over to watch the game, and make it a party. The more the merrier!
  • Wear your Cowboys gear: Show your support for the Cowboys by wearing your favorite team jersey, hat, or other apparel. Even if you're not a Cowboys fan, you can still get into the spirit of the game by wearing some festive colors.
  • Don't forget the drinks: Make sure you have plenty of beverages on hand to keep everyone hydrated. Water, soda, juice, and beer are all good options. Just remember to drink responsibly!
  • Most Importantly – Have Fun! Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and fun. Enjoy the game, the company, and all the delicious food. Win or lose, it's a special day to create lasting memories.

So there you have it, folks! Everything you need to know about the Cowboys Thanksgiving game. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a casual observer, it's a tradition that's worth experiencing. So, grab your plate, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and get ready for some football! Happy Thanksgiving!