Turkey Day Football: A tradition that lives on.

Nothing is better than football on Thanksgiving. This tradition started years ago when the Detroit Lions wanted to boost attendance and TV ratings for their less than popular team. Now, the Lions take the grid iron every Turkey day, but times have changed significantly. In the 90s the game was centered around watching the amazing cuts and spins of Barry Sanders. The Lions would typically lose as expected. The paper bag era also ensued when fans showed up to the game not wanting to reveal their own identity, was it that bad? Actually, the Lions were and the only bite they were taking out of anybody was the Turkey after the game was over. However, the Megatron and Matthew Stafford era has been much more kind to Detroit and for the average football fan. Many would argue that they are "tired" of watching the same team every year. The Lions sit atop the NFC North and take on a "Rogerless" team hoping to discount double check their way to a big win in a tight division. We should see plenty of air under the old pigskin as Stafford connects with Megatron, well worth all the fanfare.

Then there is the Cowboys who have been a Thanksgiving slate for decades as well. The BOYS being Americas team are either loved or hated. Last year did not fare so well as RG3 ruined the day in Big D. This season Dallas takes on the Oakland Raiders and should handle them in order to take at least a 3 day lead in the crazy NFC East. Tony Romo is sure to light up the big stage by tossing the hot to "Dirty" DEZ. Fortunately for the Boys and Jerry Jones, the only thing dirty about DEZ has been his play this year. Once again we will see the two best wideouts in the game. My hope is for the Lions vs. Cowboys matchup as the tradition evolves in the years to come.

Finally, the critics have been wanting for new and different teams to share in this American tradition of football on Thanksgiving day. Tradition is good, however it would be nice for the Boys from Big D and the Motor City to share the honors of football, food, and family on the special Thursday each season. It could be an awesome opportunity to rehash some old rivalries or to allow for flex scheduling to highlight the best matchup based on the flow of the season. The night cap does happen to include the Steelers and Ravens in a must win rivalry showdown which has playoff implications written all over it. Whatever the case may be, you will find millions in front of their big screens indulging in what takes place between the stripes while trying to fight off their food coma. Thanksgiving is an awesome holiday and is made just that much better because football is played and we all can enjoy it with our family and friends.