by Detroit, Michigan — Thanksgiving in America wouldn’t be complete without NFL football, and the 2025 slate promises to deliver excitement across the board. While the holiday remains a time for family, food, and gratitude, football has firmly cemented itself as a centerpiece of the celebration, with the league leaning into the tradition with three high-profile matchups.
NFL Thanksgiving 2025 Schedule
As is customary since 2006, there will be three NFL games on Thanksgiving Day:
- Early Game (1 p.m. ET): Detroit Lions host the Green Bay Packers
- Middle Game (4:30 p.m. ET): Dallas Cowboys host a TBD opponent
- Late Game (8:20 p.m. ET): Baltimore Ravens host the Cincinnati Bengals
While the early and middle games have set home teams, the late game in Baltimore has no standard hosting rotation but promises plenty of intrigue.
Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions captured attention last season with a surprising surge, but 2025 has brought challenges. As it currently stands, the Chicago Bears lead the NFC North, with the Packers in second place and the Lions in third.
Detroit still has a shot at the playoffs, and this Thanksgiving clash is critical, especially after losing to Green Bay in Week 1.
Both teams entered Week 12 with wins: the Lions narrowly defeated the New York Giants, while the Packers comfortably beat the Minnesota Vikings. With three of Detroit’s final four games on the road, this home matchup could determine their playoff fate. Head coach Dan Campbell has a reputation as a motivational leader, and his ability to rally the team on Turkey Day could be pivotal.
Kansas City Chiefs at Baltimore Ravens
The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, have experienced a mixed 2025 season, sitting at 6-5 and potentially facing playoff elimination. Their recent win against the Colts was uneven, reflecting the team’s inconsistency.
Baltimore has also struggled at times, with the Cowboys teetering on the playoff edge despite scoring effectively. This matchup will test both squads’ ability to execute under pressure, with the team that avoids costly mistakes likely to come out on top.
Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens
Originally expected to be a potential AFC title-decider, injuries have reshaped the matchup. For the Bengals, Joe Burrow could return, though his mobility may be limited, and the team may be without Tee Higgins due to a concussion.
The Ravens have rebounded well, winning five straight games and currently leading the AFC North. While Lamar Jackson has faced injuries this season, he is back in the lineup, and Derrick Henry has regained form, helping Baltimore exploit Cincinnati’s weak run defense.
Watching NFL Games on TV and Streaming
Fans wanting to catch the Thanksgiving 2025 NFL action have multiple options. Games will be broadcast nationally on major networks and are also available through various streaming platforms, allowing viewers to enjoy football from virtually anywhere.
Whether you plan to watch the Lions-Packers, Chiefs-Ravens, or Bengals-Ravens games, Thanksgiving Day promises plenty of gridiron drama, high stakes, and thrilling moments for football fans across the country.
Will you be cheering for the Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, or Baltimore Ravens this Thanksgiving? Share your predictions, favorite matchups, and viewing plans in the comments below — your thoughts could spark some lively football discussion!
