NFL Thanksgiving 2020: All The Games & Scores

Hey football fanatics! Get ready to digest some turkey and even more turkey legs, because Thanksgiving 2020 brought us some seriously epic NFL action. Even though things were a bit different this year with, you know, everything, the league still delivered three awesome matchups for us to feast our eyes on. So grab your comfy pants, settle into the couch, and let's dive into the breakdown of the NFL Thanksgiving games 2020. We'll cover who played, who won, and all the juicy details you need to know about these holiday traditions.

A Thanksgiving Tradition Like No Other

Guys, NFL Thanksgiving games are more than just football; they're a cornerstone of the holiday. It’s that moment when the turkey’s carved, the cranberry sauce is dolloped, and everyone’s either groaning from eating too much or cheering for their favorite team. The Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have been hosting games on Turkey Day for decades, making it an ingrained part of American culture. But in 2020, we saw a special third game added to the schedule, giving us even more gridiron goodness to enjoy. This expanded slate meant more opportunities for nail-biting finishes, standout performances, and, of course, plenty of turkey-induced naps between plays. The anticipation for these matchups builds all week, and when kickoff finally arrives, it’s a signal that the holiday officially begins for many fans. It's a unique blend of sports and celebration, a way to bring families together (even if virtually sometimes) around a shared passion for the game. The history behind these games is rich, with iconic moments etched into NFL lore. Think about the legendary performances, the unexpected upsets, and the sheer drama that unfolds on Thanksgiving Day. It's a day where legacies are made and fan memories are forged, all under the watchful eyes of millions glued to their screens. The addition of a third game in 2020 was a treat, offering a full day of football from morning until night, catering to every fan's appetite for the sport. This tradition continues to evolve, but its core appeal remains the same: a day of gratitude, family, and, most importantly, football.

The Full Slate: Lions vs. Texans

Kicking off the NFL Thanksgiving games 2020 were the Detroit Lions hosting the Houston Texans. Now, let's be real, neither of these teams was exactly setting the league on fire that season, but Thanksgiving football is Thanksgiving football, right? The Lions, playing in their traditional home slot, were looking to give their fans something to cheer about. The Texans, on the other hand, were trying to find some momentum. This game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showing flashes of brilliance and moments of frustration. It was the kind of game that kept you on the edge of your seat, wondering who would ultimately pull ahead. The Lions managed to secure a win in a close one, with a final score of 20-16. It wasn't a blowout by any means, but it was a victory that mattered, especially on such a hallowed day. Matthew Stafford was solid for the Lions, making key throws when it counted. On the Texans' side, Deshaun Watson showcased his talent, but it wasn't quite enough to overcome the Lions' determination. This game, while perhaps not a championship decider, was a perfect example of Thanksgiving football: gritty, competitive, and ultimately decided by who wanted it more on that particular day. It provided that essential dose of NFL action to start the holiday festivities, reminding everyone why these games are so special. The Lions, in their familiar role as Thanksgiving hosts, delivered a performance that, while not always pretty, was effective enough to earn them a hard-fought victory. The Texans, facing their own set of challenges, battled valiantly but ultimately fell short. It was a game that underscored the unpredictable nature of the NFL, where any team can come out on top on any given Sunday, or in this case, Thursday. The significance of this win for the Lions, on Thanksgiving Day no less, added an extra layer of joy for their fanbase, a welcome holiday treat amidst a challenging season. It was a testament to the enduring appeal of the NFL Thanksgiving tradition, providing a unique blend of sport and celebration that is cherished by fans across the country. The energy in the stadium, even with limited capacity, was palpable, and the stakes felt higher due to the holiday's significance.

The Undisputed Main Event: Cowboys vs. Washington

Next up, we had the classic NFC East rivalry: the Dallas Cowboys hosting Washington (then known as the Washington Football Team). This is always a massive game, and Thanksgiving Day is no exception. The Cowboys were coming into this one with a lot of pressure, trying to salvage their season. Washington, meanwhile, was showing improvement and looking to make a statement. This game, however, did not go the way the home crowd wanted. Washington came out firing and absolutely dominated. The final score was a resounding 41-16 in favor of Washington. Yikes. It was a tough one for the Cowboys and their fans to swallow on Thanksgiving. Alex Smith, the veteran quarterback for Washington, had a remarkable game, showing incredible resilience and skill. Antonio Gibson was a force on the ground for Washington, scoring multiple touchdowns. For the Cowboys, it was a struggle on both sides of the ball. This was a statement win for Washington, proving they were a team to be reckoned with in the NFC East. It was a stark reminder that on any given Sunday, or Thursday, the unexpected can happen. This game highlighted the strengths of Washington's defense and the offensive capabilities that were starting to emerge. The Cowboys, despite their star power, just couldn't match Washington's intensity and execution on this particular holiday. It was a humbling experience for Dallas, underscoring the challenges they faced throughout that season. The NFL Thanksgiving games often produce surprising results, and this matchup was a prime example. Washington's performance was a masterclass in how to execute a game plan effectively, leaving the Cowboys scrambling. It was a game that shifted the narrative in the NFC East, even if just for a day, and showcased the growing potential of the Washington Football Team. The emotion of the win was evident, especially for players like Alex Smith, whose journey back to playing at a high level was nothing short of inspirational. It was a holiday performance that will be remembered for Washington's dominance.

The Nightcap: Ravens vs. Steelers (A Fierce Showdown!)

Saving the best for last, the NFL Thanksgiving games 2020 concluded with an absolute barnburner: the Baltimore Ravens taking on the Pittsburgh Steelers. This was a matchup of two AFC North powerhouses, and boy, did it deliver! Originally, this game was scheduled for Thanksgiving night, but due to COVID-19 issues within the Ravens' organization, it was postponed to the following Wednesday. Talk about a Thanksgiving week treat! Even though it was played a few days later, the intensity was through the roof. This was a defensive slugfest, a true testament to the rivalry between these two teams. The Steelers ultimately came out on top with a 19-14 victory. It was a hard-fought game where every yard was earned. Lamar Jackson and the Ravens battled hard, but the Steelers' defense, led by T.J. Watt, was relentless. Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers' offense made just enough plays to secure the win. This game was a classic AFC North clash, filled with physicality and crucial plays. It really showcased the grit and determination of both teams. The Ravens showed why they are Super Bowl contenders, pushing the undefeated Steelers to the limit. The Steelers, continuing their incredible undefeated streak, proved their mettle in a gritty divisional game. The impact of COVID-19 on the schedule added a unique challenge, but the game itself was a pure display of high-level football. It was a game that fans will talk about for a long time, a true highlight of the NFL Thanksgiving period, even with the schedule shuffle. The resilience shown by both teams, navigating unprecedented circumstances, made the contest even more compelling. It was a testament to the league's ability to adapt and still deliver premier entertainment. The stakes were incredibly high, with both teams vying for divisional supremacy and playoff positioning. This game wasn't just about winning; it was about asserting dominance in one of the league's most storied rivalries. The final whistle blew on a game that encapsulated the spirit of Thanksgiving football – giving fans a memorable contest to be thankful for.

Final Thoughts on Thanksgiving Football 2020

So there you have it, guys! The NFL Thanksgiving games 2020 delivered a full day of football action, from the early kickoff between the Lions and Texans to the intense rivalry game between the Cowboys and Washington, and the epic showdown between the Ravens and Steelers (even with the delay!). It was a day filled with upsets, gritty performances, and classic rivalries. Even with the unique circumstances of 2020, the spirit of Thanksgiving football shone through. It's a tradition that brings people together, offering a shared experience for fans across the country. Whether you were rooting for a win, a loss, or just some good old-fashioned football, these games provided the perfect soundtrack to a memorable Thanksgiving. Until next year, keep those football Sundays (and Thursdays!) strong!