Every fourth Thursday of November, millions of Americans gather around their TVs to watch a familiar sight: the Detroit Lions playing football. A tradition almost nine decades old, but what is the significance of it? And why do the Lions mark this holiday with a game every year?

Thanksgiving and football are as American as anything ever could be. So it is no surprise that they both have become synonymous with each other. A custom that started in 1938 as a gimmick still goes on. And has become even more popular, producing some brilliant games. Let’s dive into the roots of this American ritual.

The Detroit Lions are the holiday team

The Lions’ Thanksgiving tradition began in their first season in Detroit. After they moved from Ohio, previously known as the Spartans. The team’s owner, George Richards, was a radio mogul who wanted to boost the attendance and popularity of his new franchise. Which was overshadowed by the Detroit Tigers baseball team. So, he came up with a brilliant plan!

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Now, this wasn’t the first time the teams played on Turkey Day, but it was the first time the game was advertised as part of the holiday festivities. The Lions hosted the Chicago Bears in their inaugural Thanksgiving game in 1938. The Bears were the defending champions. Even though the Lions lost 19-16, the game was a smash success.

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Such a success that Richards and the NFL decided to make it an annual tradition. The Lions started hosting a game on Thanksgiving every year since then. Except for a six-year hiatus during World War II. This year they will face the Green Bay Packers in the 84th meeting. With the season they are having, they’d also love to improve their record.

The Lions ready to roar on Thanksgiving

In their 83 games, the Lions have a record of 37-44-2. But as they sit comfortably atop the NFC North table, they’d love to beat the divisional rivals and further improve their record. The Lions already have an edge against the Packers on Thanksgiving.

The teams have faced each other 22 times on Thanksgiving. So far, the Lions have a record of 12-9-1 in the Thanksgiving series, and another win would make it even sweeter. Apart from being a traditional game, this matchup has immense playoff implications as well.

The winner of this game will have the advantage in the playoff race. A spot almost in the grasp of the Lions while a necessary win for the Packers if they want to stay in the hunt. What are your predictions for the upcoming game? Let us know in the comments!

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