Search Intent: Informational — readers want to know which NFL teams play on Thanksgiving, when each game starts, which channels broadcast the matchups, and how to stream the action.
Thanksgiving and football go together for millions of American fans. From the first afternoon kickoff to the final game under the lights, the NFL’s holiday schedule gives families and friends another reason to gather around the television.
The 2026 NFL Thanksgiving schedule brings three games on Thursday, November 26, featuring the Chicago Bears against the Detroit Lions, the Philadelphia Eagles against the Dallas Cowboys, and the Kansas City Chiefs against the Buffalo Bills. The league is also expanding the holiday experience with a Thanksgiving Eve game and a Black Friday matchup. NFL Football Operations+1
That means fans can enjoy football across several days instead of limiting their holiday viewing to Thursday.
Whether you support an NFC North team, follow the NFC East rivalry, or want to watch Patrick Mahomes face Josh Allen, this guide covers the confirmed schedule, kickoff times, broadcast channels, key storylines, and viewing options.
NFL Thanksgiving Games 2026: Full Schedule at a Glance
The NFL has announced the matchups and broadcast details for Thanksgiving week. All times below are Eastern Time (ET).
| Date | Matchup | Kickoff | TV / Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, Nov. 25 | Green Bay Packers at Los Angeles Rams | 8:00 p.m. | Netflix |
| Thursday, Nov. 26 | Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions | 1:00 p.m. | CBS |
| Thursday, Nov. 26 | Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys | 4:30 p.m. | FOX |
| Thursday, Nov. 26 | Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills | 8:20 p.m. | NBC |
| Friday, Nov. 27 | Denver Broncos at Pittsburgh Steelers | 3:00 p.m. | Prime Video |
The traditional Thursday tripleheader remains the main attraction, but the Wednesday and Friday games make Thanksgiving week even bigger.
For viewers on the West Coast, the Thursday games begin at 10:00 a.m. PT, 1:30 p.m. That timing can make it easier to watch the early game before dinner and save the Chiefs-Bills matchup for the evening.
Note that kickoff times are scheduled start times; actual game action can begin a little later because of pregame ceremonies and broadcast introductions.
1. Bears vs. Lions: Thanksgiving’s Opening Game
Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions
1:00 p.m. ET
Thursday, November 26 • CBS
Venue: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
The Bears-Lions matchup opens Thanksgiving Day and continues one of the NFL’s longest-running holiday traditions. Detroit has played on Thanksgiving annually since 1945, making its holiday game a familiar part of American football culture. NFL+1
Why this game matters
Both teams compete in the NFC North, so the matchup carries divisional importance as well as holiday appeal. A win can help a team improve its position in the division and strengthen its playoff chances.
Chicago enters the matchup with quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson, who previously served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator. Detroit counters with quarterback Jared Goff, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and defensive end Aidan Hutchinson among its key players to watch. NFL
The coaching connection adds another storyline. Johnson knows the Lions’ offensive system and organizational approach, while Detroit will be familiar with many of the concepts he helped develop.
Players to watch
- Caleb Williams, Bears: His decision-making, accuracy, and ability to extend plays could determine how well Chicago handles Detroit’s defense.
- Jared Goff, Lions: Goff’s passing efficiency and ability to avoid costly turnovers will be important.
- Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions: His combination of rushing ability and receiving skills can create problems for opposing defenses.
- Aidan Hutchinson, Lions: Pressure from Detroit’s defensive front could make life difficult for Williams.
The most important battle may be Chicago’s offensive line against Detroit’s pass rush. If Williams has time to find his receivers, the Bears can challenge the Lions. If Detroit consistently pressures him, the home team could gain an important advantage.
What fans should expect: A physical NFC North contest with plenty of divisional tension. As with any game scheduled months in advance, current records, injuries, and active rosters should be checked closer to kickoff.
2. Eagles vs. Cowboys: A Rivalry in the Afternoon Spotlight
Eagles QB Jalen Hurts thrives under pressure against the Cowboys
Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys
4:30 p.m. ET
Thursday, November 26 • FOX
Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
The second Thanksgiving game features one of the NFL’s best-known rivalries. Philadelphia and Dallas share the NFC East, and their meetings often carry significant consequences for divisional standings.
The Eagles will travel to Texas to face the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. The matchup gives fans an afternoon game built around familiar rivals, passionate fan bases, and the pressure of a divisional contest. NFL Football Operations+1
Why Eagles vs. Cowboys is a must-watch
The rivalry is about more than history. Both teams regularly enter a season with expectations of competing for the NFC East title, and a late-November meeting can influence the race.
Philadelphia will look to establish its offensive identity and protect its position in the division. Dallas, meanwhile, will have an opportunity to defend its home field against a direct rival.
Thanksgiving also adds a national audience to a matchup that already matters to both fan bases. Casual viewers can enjoy the rivalry’s atmosphere, while longtime fans will be watching the standings and potential playoff implications.
Players and storylines to follow
For Philadelphia, quarterback Jalen Hurts and the team’s offensive playmakers will be central to the game plan. The Eagles’ ability to mix passing plays with an effective running game could put pressure on Dallas.
For the Cowboys, quarterback Dak Prescott and the passing attack will be important to watch. Dallas will need to protect the ball and take advantage of scoring opportunities against a divisional opponent.
Keep an eye on these areas:
- Quarterback efficiency: Which team makes better decisions under pressure?
- Red-zone execution: Can each offense turn promising drives into touchdowns?
- Defensive pressure: Sacks and hurried throws could swing momentum.
- Turnovers: A fumble or interception could be especially costly in a close game.
The Eagles-Cowboys matchup is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET, making it the bridge between the traditional Detroit game and the primetime finale.
3. Chiefs vs. Bills: The Thanksgiving Night Showdown
Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills
8:20 p.m. ET
Thursday, November 26 • NBC
Venue: Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, New York
The final Thanksgiving Day game brings together the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. The matchup is a major attraction because of the teams’ recent history and the quarterback duel between Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. NFL+1
For fans who prefer prime-time football, this is the main event of the holiday.
Mahomes vs. Allen
Mahomes and Allen have become two of the most recognizable quarterbacks in the NFL. Their meetings have featured high-scoring stretches, late-game drama, and important postseason implications.
Kansas City has often enjoyed success against Buffalo in the playoffs, while the Bills have also had strong regular-season results in recent meetings. The contrast makes every new matchup interesting: past results provide context, but they do not determine what will happen on game day. NFL
What Kansas City needs to do
The Chiefs will need efficient quarterback play, protection up front, and enough balance to prevent Buffalo from focusing entirely on the passing game.
Mahomes can create opportunities when plays break down, but the Chiefs will also need their receivers to win matchups and their defense to limit Buffalo’s explosive plays.
What Buffalo needs to do
The Bills will look to use Allen’s arm strength, mobility, and ability to make plays under pressure. A strong running game and disciplined offensive line could help Buffalo control the pace.
Defensively, Buffalo needs to limit explosive gains and make Kansas City work for its points. Preventing short fields and avoiding costly penalties will be important.
Key factors that could decide the game
- Turnover margin: Giving Mahomes extra possessions is risky; the same applies to Allen and the Bills.
- Third-down efficiency: Sustaining drives will help each team control the ball.
- Red-zone defense: Forcing field goals instead of touchdowns can change the outcome.
- Late-game execution: These teams have enough offensive talent to make the final minutes especially important.
The Chiefs-Bills game is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC. Fans should check their local listings and official streaming options before game day.
4. Packers vs. Rams: The First-Ever Thanksgiving Eve Game
Green Bay Packers v Los Angeles Rams
Green Bay Packers at Los Angeles Rams
8:00 p.m. ET
Wednesday, November 25 • Netflix
Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
The NFL is adding a new holiday tradition in 2026: its first-ever Thanksgiving Eve game. Green Bay will travel to Los Angeles to face the Rams on Wednesday night, giving fans a nationally streamed game before Thanksgiving Day begins. NFL+1
Why Packers vs. Rams is worth watching
The matchup features two teams with strong offensive potential and coaches who know each other’s systems. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur and Rams head coach Sean McVay have a professional connection that adds another layer to the contest.
Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love will look to lead the Packers against a Los Angeles team featuring quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Puka Nacua. The Rams’ offense also has playmakers such as Davante Adams and running back Kyren Williams. NFL
Main storylines
- Jordan Love’s passing game: Can Green Bay move the ball efficiently against the Rams?
- Matthew Stafford’s experience: Stafford’s decision-making and deep passing could be important.
- Wide receiver matchups: Nacua and Adams give Los Angeles multiple ways to challenge a defense.
- Coaching adjustments: LaFleur and McVay are familiar with one another’s football philosophies.
This game also gives fans an opportunity to start their holiday football viewing a day early. Since it is on Netflix, viewers should verify their account access and local streaming availability before kickoff.
5. Broncos vs. Steelers: Black Friday Football
Denver Broncos v Pittsburgh Steelers
Denver Broncos at Pittsburgh Steelers
3:00 p.m. ET
Friday, November 27 • Prime Video
Venue: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Thanksgiving week continues on Black Friday with the Denver Broncos visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers. The game adds another nationally televised event for fans who want to keep watching football after the holiday meal and shopping rush. NFL+1
What makes this matchup interesting?
Denver and Pittsburgh represent two teams that typically value physical defense, strong line play, and disciplined football. The game could turn on which offense handles pressure better and which defense creates more difficult situations for the opposing quarterback.
Denver will look to use its offensive balance and defensive pressure to challenge Pittsburgh. The Steelers, playing at home, will aim to take advantage of their crowd and establish control early.
The exact player matchups to watch will become clearer as the game approaches and the teams’ injury reports and active rosters are updated.
Key factors to follow
- Quarterback protection: Avoiding sacks and hurried throws can keep drives alive.
- The running game: Effective rushing can reduce pressure on the quarterback.
- Defensive takeaways: Turnovers often decide tightly contested games.
- Red-zone performance: Touchdowns instead of field goals can make the difference.
Prime Video is the scheduled broadcaster, so viewers should check their access before Friday afternoon.
How to Watch the NFL Thanksgiving Games 2026
Fans have several viewing options, depending on which game they want to watch. The three Thursday games are scheduled for major broadcast networks, while the additional holiday matchups use streaming services.
| Game | Scheduled broadcaster | Streaming option |
|---|---|---|
| Packers at Rams | Netflix | Netflix |
| Bears at Lions | CBS | Paramount+; local availability may vary |
| Eagles at Cowboys | FOX | FOX’s supported streaming options |
| Chiefs at Bills | NBC | Peacock |
| Broncos at Steelers | Prime Video | Prime Video |
Broadcast details are based on the published 2026 schedule. Confirm local availability and current subscription requirements before game day. NFL Football Operations+2
Can you watch without cable?
Yes, depending on the game and your location.
- CBS: A compatible live-TV streaming service or eligible Paramount+ plan may provide access.
- FOX: Supported streaming packages may carry the local FOX affiliate.
- NBC: Peacock and other eligible local NBC viewing options may be available.
- Netflix: The Packers-Rams game is scheduled to stream on Netflix.
- Prime Video: The Broncos-Steelers game is scheduled to stream on Prime Video.
Streaming rights, subscription tiers, local-market restrictions, and blackout rules can vary. Check the official service listings rather than assuming every subscription includes every game.
For official schedule information, start with the NFL Week 12 schedule.
What Time Do Thanksgiving NFL Games Start in Different US Time Zones?
The official schedule lists kickoff times in Eastern Time. Here’s how the five games line up across the continental United States.
| Matchup | Eastern | Central | Mountain | Pacific |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Packers at Rams — Wednesday | 8:00 p.m. | 7:00 p.m. | 6:00 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. |
| Bears at Lions — Thursday | 1:00 p.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 11:00 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. |
| Eagles at Cowboys — Thursday | 4:30 p.m. | 3:30 p.m. | 2:30 p.m. | 1:30 p.m. |
| Chiefs at Bills — Thursday | 8:20 p.m. | 7:20 p.m. | 6:20 p.m. | 5:20 p.m. |
| Broncos at Steelers — Friday | 3:00 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. | 1:00 p.m. | 12:00 p.m. |
These are the scheduled kickoff times converted between US time zones. They are not predictions of the exact time the opening play will occur.
For families on the West Coast, the Lions game begins in the morning, followed by the Eagles-Cowboys game in early afternoon and Chiefs-Bills in the evening. Central and Eastern viewers can fit the games around lunch, dinner, and other holiday plans.
Why the NFL Plays Games on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving football is one of the NFL’s most recognizable traditions. Detroit has hosted Thanksgiving games annually since 1945, while Dallas became a regular Thanksgiving host in 1966. Over time, the holiday developed into a major television event for fans across the country. NFL+1
There are several reasons the tradition remains popular.
A shared holiday experience: Families can watch the same games while gathering for Thanksgiving meals.
Historic team traditions: Detroit and Dallas have become closely associated with Thanksgiving football.
High-profile rivalries: Divisional matchups can have meaningful consequences for playoff races.
National television audiences: Multiple broadcast windows allow fans to watch games throughout the day.
More holiday football: The new Wednesday game and established Black Friday showcase expand the viewing window beyond Thursday.
The 2026 schedule continues that evolution while keeping the traditional three-game Thanksgiving lineup intact.
Fantasy Football Tips for Thanksgiving Week
Holiday games can be important for fantasy football managers because many leagues are approaching the final weeks of their regular seasons. A strong Thursday performance can provide an early advantage, but lineup choices should still be based on player availability, role, matchup, and scoring format.
1. Check injury reports before setting your lineup
Do not assume that a star player will be active simply because a game is nationally televised. Review the official injury reports and final inactive lists as kickoff approaches.
2. Consider workload, not just reputation
Running backs who receive a consistent share of carries and targets can provide a stable fantasy floor. Wide receivers with regular targets and red-zone involvement may also be attractive options.
3. Review quarterback matchups
Quarterbacks facing heavy pressure or defenses that limit explosive plays may have less upside. Look at recent performance and the expected offensive game plan before making a decision.
4. Plan around the Thursday and Friday schedule
Because several games are played before the weekend, fantasy managers need to finalize their early-week decisions on time. Check whether your league locks individual players at kickoff or locks the entire lineup.
5. Avoid making decisions based only on holiday hype
A famous rivalry does not guarantee a high-scoring game. Use player usage, recent form, injury status, and matchup data to make better choices.
Fantasy football remains unpredictable, so use the latest information rather than relying on projections made months before the games.
Are the NFL Thanksgiving Games Important for Playoff Races?
Yes. Thanksgiving falls in Week 12 of the 2026 regular season, when teams have already played much of their schedule and the playoff picture may be taking shape.
A divisional win can help a team improve its record against direct competitors. That matters because division standings and tiebreakers can influence playoff qualification and seeding.
The Bears-Lions game could affect the NFC North race. Eagles-Cowboys could influence the NFC East standings, while Chiefs-Bills could matter for the AFC playoff picture.
The Packers-Rams and Broncos-Steelers games also provide valuable opportunities for teams to improve their records before the final stretch of the season.
However, the importance of each matchup will depend on the teams’ records, conference standings, and injury situations by late November. Fans should check the latest standings during Thanksgiving week for a clearer picture of the playoff implications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Thanksgiving in 2026?
Thanksgiving Day in the United States falls on Thursday, November 26, 2026. The NFL’s traditional Thursday tripleheader will take place that day.
2. What teams play on Thanksgiving Day 2026?
The three Thanksgiving Day matchups are Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys, and Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills. NFL Football Operations+1
3. What time is the first Thanksgiving NFL game?
The Bears-Lions game is scheduled to start at 1:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, November 26, on CBS.
4. Who plays in the Thanksgiving night game?
The Kansas City Chiefs visit the Buffalo Bills in the Thanksgiving night game. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.
5. Is there an NFL game on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving?
Yes. The Green Bay Packers visit the Los Angeles Rams on Wednesday, November 25, at 8:00 p.m. ET. It is the NFL’s first Thanksgiving Eve game and is scheduled to stream on Netflix. NFL+1
6. Is there an NFL game on Black Friday?
Yes. The Denver Broncos visit the Pittsburgh Steelers on Friday, November 27, at 3:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video. NFL+1
7. What channel is the Bears vs. Lions game on?
The Bears-Lions game is scheduled for CBS. Eligible streaming options may include Paramount+, depending on the plan and local availability.
8. What channel is the Eagles vs. Cowboys game on?
The Eagles-Cowboys game is scheduled for FOX at 4:30 p.m. ET on Thanksgiving Day.
9. Where can I watch Chiefs vs. Bills?
The Chiefs-Bills game is scheduled to air on NBC at 8:20 p.m. ET. Peacock is a streaming option for eligible viewers.
10. How many NFL games are scheduled across Thanksgiving week?
There are five featured games across the Wednesday-to-Friday holiday window: one on Thanksgiving Eve, three on Thanksgiving Day, and one on Black Friday. Other regular-season games take place during the rest of Week 12.
11. Are Thanksgiving NFL games included in NFL+?
Availability depends on the game, device, location, and NFL+ plan. Check the official NFL ways to watch guide for current viewing rules and supported services.
12. Where can I find updates to the schedule?
The official NFL Week 12 schedule is the best place to verify kickoff times, matchups, and broadcast information.
Final Thoughts
The nfl thanksgiving games 2026 schedule gives fans five featured matchups across three days, starting with Packers-Rams on Wednesday night and finishing with Broncos-Steelers on Black Friday.
Thanksgiving Day itself features three major games: Bears vs. Lions at 1:00 p.m. ET, Eagles vs. Cowboys at 4:30 p.m.
Each matchup offers a different reason to tune in. Bears-Lions continues Detroit’s long holiday tradition. Eagles-Cowboys brings a heated NFC East rivalry to the afternoon window. Chiefs-Bills provides a prime-time showdown between two teams with a memorable recent history.
The Packers-Rams game adds a new Thanksgiving Eve tradition, while Broncos-Steelers extends the football celebration into Friday afternoon.
For the best viewing experience, confirm local broadcast availability, check the latest injury reports, and review the official NFL schedule before kickoff. With football spread across the holiday week, fans have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the action alongside family, friends, and a Thanksgiving meal.