Your Guide To A Perfect Sports-Filled Thanksgiving
Ross Kelly, CBS Local Sports
When most people think of Thanksgiving, they think of family, food, and football (and not always in that order). It’s the time to give thanks to everything, and everyone, around you. When it comes to sports on Thanksgiving, the NFL is the first thing that comes to mind. For decades we’ve all watched the Cowboys and the Lions play in games and this year will be no different. However, there are also other games, and events, that you should consider.
I know I’m not talking to any last-minuters out there because everyone is already prepared when it comes to food and supplies. There won’t be an early Thursday shopping as your turkey, your stuffing, pumpkin pie, sweet potato casserole, etc. is already in hand. Thus, the only work you’ll actually do on Thursday is serving the food. But while the turkey is in the oven on Thanksgiving morning, you, your friends, and your family can enjoy a good, old-fashioned {Family Name} Football Game. I prefer tackle over two-hands or flag as there’s always that one relative that you’ve been waiting all year to get your hands on and here is your chance.
By the time your family football game is over; it’s time for the real thing. The Eagles visit the Lions in the early game and while both of these teams sport losing records, there’s plenty of intrigue in this matchup. The Eagles are the closest thing to watching a college team’s playbook run by a professional team and Detroit’s Calvin Johnson is the closest thing we’ll see to LeBron James playing football. Also, you never know when you’re watching the last NFL game coached by Chip Kelly or Jim Caldwell as both coaches are on the hot seat.
During halftime of the game is when the turkey should be ready and…you don’t need a guide on what to do with it. But go easy as you want to save some leftovers.
Next up is the Cowboys game at 4:30pm EST and the undefeated Panthers will pay a visit to JerryWorld. This should be the best game of the day and the Cowboys with a healthy Romo are a lot better than their 3-7 record. Will Cam Newton be dabbin’ on the star as the Panthers move to 11-0 or will Romo and the ‘Boys officially re-insert themselves into the NFC playoff picture? Also, don’t forget a certain DE by the name of Greg Hardy was drafted, and cut, by the Panthers. Will his former teammates have something special in line for Mr. Hardy?
By now the tryptophan should start kicking in but power through as there’s one more NFL game and it’s an NFC North matchup between the Bears and Packers. There is a chance of snow in Green Bay Thursday night and what’s better than watching football on the Frozen Tundra while it’s peppered with snow? The Packers’ offense (when it’s clicking) is a sight to behold with their impeccable timing, back-shoulder throws, and fat Eddie Lacy. Plus, Brett Favre will have his jersey retired at halftime and we may even get some awkward Favre-Rodgers moments. I'll be watching.
College sports fans can also get their fix on Turkey Day. There is a full day’s slate of college basketball games thanks to the litany of early-season tournaments. As for college football there are a couple of state-rivalry games that may pique your interest if you reside in Florida or Texas. USF and UCF play each other as South Florida attempts to stake its claim as the third best team in Florida (sorry Miami) while UCF attempts to get its first victory of the season. Texas residents will undoubtedly be checking out UT take on Texas Tech in a matchup that could have a big impact on recruiting decisions.
So there is plenty to take in on Thanksgiving as both a spectator and a participant. You may have to bring out the second TV in order to enjoy everything, but there is no shortage of options for the sports fan. But most of all, remember exactly why you are celebrating this special day and be thankful, and grateful, for all that you have.
Ross Kelly is an Associated Producer for CBS Local Sports. He is from Louisiana and is a fan of all sports, but not of any teams (except LSU). He can be reached at ross.kelly@cbs.com.