Read on foxsports.comBest Thanksgiving NFL Memories for 2025's Six Turkey Day Teams
As the NFL prepares for its 2025 Thanksgiving tripleheader, each of the six teams brings unique Turkey Day memories from this century. From the Packers' 2007 offensive showcase to the Lions' 2013 domination and the Cowboys' recent 45-10 rout, Thanksgiving football has created unforgettable moments. The Chiefs, Ravens, and Bengals also have distinctive holiday histories that add to the rich tradition of NFL football on this special American holiday.
Thanksgiving and NFL football have become inseparable American traditions, and the 2025 schedule delivers another compelling tripleheader featuring six teams with distinct Turkey Day histories. As these teams prepare to take the field, their past Thanksgiving performances provide fascinating context for the holiday matchups ahead.
Green Bay Packers: 2007 Offensive Masterclass
The Packers' most memorable Thanksgiving performance this century came in 2007 against division rival Detroit. In what would be Brett Favre's final season with Green Bay, the future Hall of Famer delivered a spectacular performance, completing 31 of 41 passes for 381 yards and three touchdowns. The offensive display was complemented by Ryan Grant's 101 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Donald Driver dominated with 10 receptions for 147 yards. The Packers built a commanding 34-12 lead early in the fourth quarter before Detroit made the final score appear closer than the game actually was.
Detroit Lions: 2013 Domination
Detroit returned the favor six years later with one of the most lopsided Thanksgiving performances in recent memory. In 2013, with Aaron Rodgers sidelined by injury, Matthew Stafford threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns while Reggie Bush and Joique Bell combined for 211 rushing yards. The statistical domination was staggering - the Lions outgained Green Bay 561-126 and controlled the ball for over 40 minutes. Calvin Johnson's touchdown reception after halftime sparked the rout, which included a safety by Ndamukong Suh that further demoralized the Packers.
Kansas City Chiefs: 2006 Ground Control
The Chiefs have only one Thanksgiving appearance this century, making their 2006 victory over Denver particularly memorable. In the first-ever Thanksgiving night game, Kansas City relied heavily on Larry Johnson, who carried the ball 34 times for 157 yards and a touchdown. While the final score of 19-10 doesn't reflect offensive fireworks, the Chiefs controlled the game throughout, outgaining Denver 382-242. Lawrence Tynes contributed four field goals in a game that established the Thanksgiving night tradition that continues today.
Dallas Cowboys: Recent Commanders Rout
Dallas has numerous memorable Thanksgiving performances, but their 2023 45-10 demolition of Washington stands out for recent dominance. After Washington closed to 14-10 late in the second quarter, the Cowboys scored 31 unanswered points, including 25 in the fourth quarter alone. Dak Prescott delivered an outstanding performance, completing 22 of 32 passes for 331 yards and four touchdowns while spreading the ball to 10 different receivers. The victory sparked a late-season surge that ultimately propelled Dallas to an NFC East title.
Cincinnati Bengals: Seeking First Turkey Day Win
The Bengals approach Thanksgiving 2025 still seeking their first holiday victory this century. Their only appearance came in 2010 against the Jets, where despite taking a halftime lead on a Carson Palmer to Jordan Shipley touchdown connection, Cincinnati ultimately fell 26-10. The game ended with Palmer taking a safety in the fourth quarter, adding insult to injury for a Bengals team that managed only 163 total yards. With Joe Burrow healthy, Cincinnati hopes to create new, positive Thanksgiving memories in Baltimore.
Baltimore Ravens: 2013 Steelers Revenge
Baltimore's most memorable Thanksgiving outing came in 2013 against division rival Pittsburgh, a game famous for Justin Tucker's five field goals and the Mike Tomlin sideline incident. The Ravens built a 10-0 halftime lead and maintained control throughout, with Joe Flacco throwing for 251 yards and a touchdown to Torrey Smith. The game's most memorable moment came when Jacoby Jones' 73-yard kickoff return was complicated by Steelers coach Mike Tomlin straying onto the field, creating one of Thanksgiving's most controversial moments.
As these six teams prepare for their 2025 Thanksgiving matchups, their holiday histories add layers of narrative to what promises to be another memorable day of NFL football. From established Thanksgiving traditions to teams seeking to create new memories, the stage is set for another chapter in the rich history of Turkey Day football.
