Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course—football. Each year, millions of Americans tune in to watch traditional Turkey Day college games and the iconic NFL matchups, creating a festive atmosphere that unites sports fans across the nation. The 2025 Thanksgiving football games promise to be as exciting as ever, featuring high-stakes matchups, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. Here’s your complete guide to the Thanksgiving football games 2025.
NFL’s Top Thanksgiving Fixtures 2025
For the 20th straight season, the National Football League will host three prominent games on Thanksgiving Day, a longstanding tradition dating back to 1934. This year, the games are set to provide thrilling action across the country, with prime-time matchups that will surely captivate viewers at home and in the stadiums.
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— The Journal Inquirer (@JournalInquirer) November 25, 2025
The Matchups
- Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions (1 p.m. ET)
Kicking off the holiday festivities, the Packers will travel to Detroit to face off against the Lions at Ford Field. These two NFC North rivals bring a storied history, and their clash will be crucial as both teams aim for playoff positioning. The Lions, riding high with a 7-4 record, are determined to defend their home turf against the Packers’ resilient squad. - Kansas City Chiefs vs. Dallas Cowboys (4:30 p.m. ET)
In the late afternoon, the reigning AFC champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, will take on the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Both teams are on the playoff bubble, making this game essential for postseason hopes. Fans can expect an offensive showcase, with star quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott leading their teams in a fierce showdown. - Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens (8:20 p.m. ET)
The nightcap features a highly anticipated AFC North rivalry. The Bengals, led by Joe Burrow, will visit Lamar Jackson and the Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Both teams are fighting for a playoff spot, and this game could serve as a season-defining moment for the AFC contenders.
College Football’s Thanksgiving Day Slate 2025
Alongside the NFL, college football also embraces the Thanksgiving tradition. Schools from across the nation will settle rivalry battles, conference showdowns, and bowl-berth qualifiers during the holiday weekend. Classic matchups like Michigan vs. Ohio State or Alabama vs. Auburn always draw national attention and intense fan engagement.
Where to Watch the 2025 Thanksgiving Football Games
Television broadcasts will cover all three NFL games, with each network holding its own exclusive rights:
- FOX airs the Packers vs. Lions at 1 p.m.
- CBS broadcasts the Chiefs vs. Cowboys at 4:30 p.m.
- NBC will feature the Bengals vs. Ravens at 8:20 p.m.
For those preferring streaming, these games will also be available via respective network apps and streaming services, ensuring fans can watch on mobile devices, smart TVs, or computers from home or on the go.
Why Thanksgiving Football Remains a Tradition
Thanksgiving football games have become a cultural phenomenon, bringing families and communities together. The NFL’s schedule is carefully curated to maximize excitement and competitiveness, offering a mix of division rivals, playoff contenders, and emerging stars. Meanwhile, college games add regional bragging rights and pageantry to the holiday.
What to Expect in 2025
This year’s games are poised to deliver high-octane action, dramatic comebacks, and emotional moments. As players battle for playoff positioning and bragging rights, fans will witness some of the best talents in football. It’s also expected that new stars will emerge, and legacy teams will etch memorable moments into Turkey Day history.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fanatic or a casual viewer, Thanksgiving football games 2025 promise to provide thrilling entertainment and cherished traditions. Make sure to mark your calendars, prepare your snacks, and settle in early to catch all the action.