The NFL Thanksgiving schedule for this year may not make you feel as drowsy as all that turkey you’ll be eating, but it has certainly lost some of its appeal since the start of the season.
It might appear like there isn’t much to be excited about in Thursday’s three-game series because of losing streaks and backup quarterbacks. But let’s chose to be grateful for the upcoming football marathon in the spirit of the season.
Here are some things to look out for on Thursday in each game.
Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions
These bears are not your typical 4-7 team. Although Chicago has a losing record, one-possession games have accounted for five of its seven losses. The Bears have lost four games in a row in the past two weeks, except the game they lost on a tip-drill Hail Mary.
Caleb Williams, a rookie quarterback, should definitely be watched because he appears to be playing with a little more vigor now that the team has fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. In Week 12, Williams threw for 340 yards and two touchdowns in a loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Will he be able to maintain his recent hot streak?
In contrast, the Lions have emerged as the NFL’s bully. They have won nine games in a row. They have scored 40 points or more twice. They have scored at least 50 twice more. They have won 76-12 in their last two games.
To put it plainly, Detroit has not shown any indications of recovering from a crushing defeat in the NFC title game the previous year. Regardless of whether quarterback Jared Goff has thrown five interceptions or the Lions are ahead by thirty points, they are a fierce club that never lets up.
If Detroit performs as it has throughout the season, it may create an opportunity for Williams to be involved in his first meaningful shootout.
New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
Only mothers could enjoy this type of contest, so include your favorite GIF of someone squirming.
Cooper Rush will start at quarterback for the Cowboys, while Tommy DeVito will start for the Giants.
Players in New York publicly questioned whether the team was too soft following their 23-point defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Additionally, rookie receiver Malik Nabers tactfully chastised the coaching staff for not using him.
Dallas, however, is still alive and well! In Week 12, the Cowboys defeated the Washington Commanders on the road in one of the most strange wins of the season. Two kickoff return touchdowns helped Rush have his greatest game of the season. Despite missing several field goals and having a punt blocked, Dallas prevailed. (You know, special teams were everywhere.)
Perhaps, just as they did for the Cowboys a week ago, the NFC East gods will work their magic once more on this game. Although it may be crucial for the draft order, it’s unfortunate that this game won’t have any postseason consequences. Nevertheless, the most recent iteration of Dallas was at least entertaining.
Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers
This nightcap is a prime rib roast if the first two games are dry turkey.
The Dolphins are 5-6, but ever since Tua Tagovailoa returned from a concussion in Week 2, they have been playing at a high level. Tagovailoa has completed 76.5% of his throws in five games since he returned from injury, with 11 touchdowns and just one interception. Miami has a 3-2 record in those games, but both of their losses were due to field goals at the last second.
In addition to being anxious to hold onto their slim prospects of making the playoffs, the Dolphins, who have won three straight games, will be looking to refute the notion that they are incapable of playing in cold weather.
In contrast, the Packers have won six of their previous seven games. They are among the better teams in the conference, despite finishing third in the very competitive NFC North. Additionally, Jordan Love, who was selected in the 2020 NBA Draft like Tagovailoa, possesses what Miami most wants: a postseason victory.
In the end, this game will serve as a yardstick for a desperate Dolphins squad. Is it possible for Tagovailoa and company to eventually travel in cold weather and win a major championship?
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