The Thanksgiving Day games in the **2025 NFL season** promise thrilling matchups that fans won’t want to miss. The action begins on **November 28, 2025**, with three exciting contests featuring six teams vying for crucial wins. According to **ESPN Research**, the average over/under point total for these games is **51.2**, the highest recorded for Thanksgiving matchups over the past four decades.
As the festivities kick off, our NFL Nation reporters delve into the essential storylines surrounding each team. From historical rivalries to current season performance, here’s what to expect as the teams prepare to take the field.
Packers vs. Lions: A Historic Rivalry
The first game features the **Green Bay Packers** (7-3-1) visiting the **Detroit Lions** (7-4) at **1 p.m. ET** on **Fox**. This matchup marks the **23rd Thanksgiving meeting** between these two storied franchises, a record in the NFL.
The Packers head into this game as underdogs for the first time this season. They have been favored in every previous game and have already secured more division wins (two) than they did in their entire last season. “We’ve learned from our past,” said Packers reporter **Rob Demovsky**.
On the other side, the Lions are eager for revenge after suffering a **27-13** defeat to the Packers in their season opener. Head Coach **Dan Campbell** emphasizes the importance of this divisional clash, stating, “This is as big as any game we’ll play in the regular season.” The Lions lead the all-time series against Green Bay with a record of **12-9-1**.
Key statistics highlight the strengths of both teams. The Packers’ defense has generated pressure on opposing quarterbacks **35%** of the time, ranking sixth in the league. This statistic could be critical against Lions quarterback **Jared Goff**, whose passer rating drops significantly when pressured.
Conversely, Lions running back **Jahmyr Gibbs** is making headlines as he approaches a milestone. With just one touchdown, he could become the fifth player in NFL history to record **45 touchdowns** within his first three seasons, joining the ranks of legends like **Barry Sanders** and **Eric Dickerson**.
Chiefs vs. Cowboys: An Intriguing Face-Off
The action continues with the **Kansas City Chiefs** (6-5) facing the **Dallas Cowboys** (5-5-1) at **4:30 p.m. ET** on **CBS**. This game is critical for both franchises, as they seek to solidify their postseason aspirations.
After a dramatic comeback victory over the **Indianapolis Colts**, Chiefs quarterback **Patrick Mahomes** understands the stakes. “We just have to build off that momentum,” he stated, aware of the challenge posed by the Cowboys’ strong defense. Despite criticisms of their offense, the Chiefs remain a top team in total yards and passing.
For the Cowboys, the recent defensive performances have been promising, with standout efforts in prior victories against the **Las Vegas Raiders** and **Philadelphia Eagles**. Defensive tackle **Kenny Clark** noted the need for precision against Mahomes, emphasizing, “You can’t let him out of the pocket and improvise.”
Both teams possess formidable offensive capabilities. The Chiefs recently ended a streak of losses in one-score games, while the Cowboys have excelled in play-action scenarios. With key players like **Dak Prescott** and Mahomes on the field, fans can expect a high-scoring affair.
Bengals vs. Ravens: Prime-Time Drama
The final Thanksgiving matchup features the **Cincinnati Bengals** (3-8) traveling to face the **Baltimore Ravens** (6-5) at **8:20 p.m. ET** on **NBC**. The Bengals are looking to reverse a tough season, particularly in division play, where turnover margin has proven essential. Safety **Geno Stone** emphasized, “Whoever takes the ball away is going to win.”
The Ravens are keen on leveraging their strengths, with running back **Derrick Henry** just **18 rushing yards** shy of passing **Jim Brown** for 11th place on the NFL’s all-time rushing list. Coach **John Harbaugh** expressed confidence in Henry’s contributions, anticipating a significant performance against a struggling Bengals defense.
As the Ravens prepare to take on their rivals, quarterback **Lamar Jackson** aims to improve his prime-time record. With a career mark of **21-7** in such games, Jackson’s performance will be pivotal in securing a victory.
The Bengals’ defense has struggled throughout the season, ranking among the worst in points allowed. This matchup could provide an opportunity for Jackson and his offensive weapons to shine.
As Thanksgiving draws near, the excitement builds for these pivotal NFL matchups. Each game not only holds playoff implications but also adds to the rich history of Thanksgiving football in America. Fans can look forward to a day filled with thrilling action, historical rivalries, and significant stakes.
