How to Watch NFL Thanksgiving Games in 2024: A Complete Guide to the Schedule and Viewing Options

Thanksgiving is synonymous with many things—family gatherings, delicious food, and, of course, NFL football. For over a century, the NFL has brought exciting football action to fans across the country on Thanksgiving Day, and 2024 is no different. The tradition continues with three thrilling games set to air on Thanksgiving Thursday. Whether you’re a seasoned football fanatic or just someone looking to add some excitement to your holiday festivities, here’s everything you need to know about how to watch the 2024 NFL Thanksgiving games, the teams playing, and how to catch all the action.

The 2024 NFL Thanksgiving Game Schedule

Thanksgiving Day 2024 promises to deliver some intense matchups. As always, the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys will take center stage, but this year’s slate includes some exciting teams fighting for playoff spots. Here’s the full schedule for the three NFL games taking place:

1. Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions
   • Time: 12:30 PM ET
   • Channel: CBS/Paramount+
   • Location: Ford Field, Detroit, MI
2. New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
   • Time: 4:30 PM ET
   • Channel: FOX
   • Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
3. Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers
   • Time: 8:20 PM ET
   • Channel: NBC/Peacock
   • Location: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI

Thanksgiving football holds a special place in the hearts of NFL fans, with these games being more than just matchups—they’re a time-honored tradition. Let’s dive into each game and how you can catch all the action.

Game 1: Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions (12:30 PM ET)

The Thanksgiving Day football tradition kicks off with a rivalry game between the Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions. Detroit, traditionally a Thanksgiving Day host since 1934, has a strong lineup this year, and the Bears will be looking to spoil the party. Despite a tough season for Chicago, the game offers an opportunity for both teams to showcase their talent.

• Key Players: For the Lions, look out for quarterback Jared Goff, who has been a standout performer this season, as well as running back David Montgomery. On the Bears’ side, all eyes will be on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who is trying to prove his mettle in the NFL.

This game will be broadcast on CBS and streamed via Paramount+, which is available to subscribers. If you’re a cord-cutter, streaming platforms like YouTube TV or FuboTV will also carry CBS, giving you access to the action.

Game 2: New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys (4:30 PM ET)

Next up, the New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys in the second game of the day. The Cowboys, a Thanksgiving staple since 1966, are hoping to stay competitive in the NFC East. On the other hand, the Giants, despite a challenging season, will be looking to salvage some pride and provide an upset on the holiday.

• Key Players: Dallas wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has been in fine form this season, and running back Tony Pollard will be key to the team’s success. For the Giants, quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley will need to perform at their best to compete with the Cowboys’ stacked roster.

This game will be broadcast on FOX. If you don’t have cable, you can catch it on streaming platforms like Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, and YouTube TV. Additionally, you can also stream FOX games on Fox Sports’ website and app.

Game 3: Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers (8:20 PM ET)

The final game of the day will be a primetime showdown between the Miami Dolphins and the Green Bay Packers. Miami is coming off a strong season, and with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa leading the offense, they’ll be aiming to continue their playoff push. Meanwhile, the Packers, under the leadership of quarterback Jordan Love, are looking to secure a playoff spot in the NFC North.

• Key Players: Miami’s explosive offense, led by Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and Jaylen Waddle, will be a tough challenge for Green Bay’s defense. Meanwhile, Green Bay’s defense will need to step up to slow down Miami’s fast-paced offense.

This exciting matchup will be broadcast on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock. If you’re a subscriber to Peacock Premium, you can watch the game live. As with the previous games, you can also watch this game via streaming services that carry NBC, such as YouTube TV and FuboTV.

How to Stream the NFL Thanksgiving Games Without Cable

If you don’t have a traditional cable subscription, you’re not out of luck. There are several streaming platforms available that will allow you to watch the games live. Here are some of the top services where you can watch the Thanksgiving games:

1. Paramount+: This will be your go-to platform for the Bears vs. Lions game, as it offers CBS streaming. Paramount+ is available as a paid subscription, but some new users may be eligible for a free trial.
2. Peacock: For the Dolphins vs. Packers game, Peacock offers live streaming of NBC content, including the Thanksgiving night matchup. Like Paramount+, Peacock is a subscription service, but free trials are available for new users.
3. YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers a full cable alternative, streaming live content from networks like CBS, FOX, and NBC. This service provides a seven-day free trial, making it a great option for watching Thanksgiving games without committing long-term.
4. FuboTV: FuboTV offers live streaming of all three networks (CBS, FOX, and NBC) that will broadcast Thanksgiving games. The service also offers a free trial period for new subscribers.
5. Hulu + Live TV: Hulu’s live TV service offers streaming for all three networks, making it another great option for watching NFL games without cable. Hulu + Live TV also offers a free trial period.

Can I Watch NFL Thanksgiving Games for Free?

Yes, there are free ways to watch the Thanksgiving NFL games. If you have an over-the-air antenna, you can tune into the broadcasts on CBS, FOX, and NBC without any subscription required. This is a great option for those who want to avoid any costs while still enjoying the football action.

Why Are the Lions and Cowboys Always Featured on Thanksgiving?

The Detroit Lions have been hosting a Thanksgiving Day game since 1934. The Cowboys joined the tradition in 1966, becoming another team synonymous with the holiday. The NFL schedule makers have continued this tradition due to the massive fan interest in these games and the long-standing connection these teams have with Thanksgiving. In fact, the Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving every year since 1966, except for two years (1975 and 1977). Over time, a third prime-time game was added, allowing for more teams to participate in the Thanksgiving festivities.

Why Do NFL Fans Love Thanksgiving Football?

For many NFL fans, watching football on Thanksgiving is as important as the turkey and mashed potatoes. It’s a time to gather with friends and family, enjoy some football, and celebrate the holiday season. The special uniforms, halftime shows, and festive atmosphere around the games only add to the experience. Moreover, these games often have playoff implications, making them even more exciting and memorable.

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