Thanksgiving football refers to the tradition of American football games being played on or around Thanksgiving Day in the United States. This custom involves all levels of the sport, from high school and amateur teams to collegiate conferences and the National Football League (NFL). The games are typically scheduled for Thanksgiving Thursday and the subsequent holiday weekend, making football a central part of the day's festivities for many American families.
This tradition is notable because it is deeply embedded in American culture, dating back over a century. It provides a shared national experience, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch televised NFL games, which have become a holiday staple. Beyond professional sports, local high school and college rivalries played on Thanksgiving often hold significant community importance, serving as annual events that draw generations of spectators and participants.
Recently, Thanksgiving football has been in the news as the holiday approaches. Sports outlets are publishing previews and predictions for upcoming games, including collegiate matchups and key NFL contests. Media coverage also includes analyses of high school playoff scenarios tied to Thanksgiving week games and retrospectives on historic local rivalries, highlighting the ongoing planning and anticipation surrounding this year's events.
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