Happy Thanksgiving Eve. For the second year in a row, I’ll be waking up (far too) early and lacing up for a 5K. (Sted Sarandos, will you be out there?) Yes, I’m talking about the turkey trot — the event that’s somehow made Thanksgiving one of the most popular days of the year to hit the pavement. I’m not trying to break any records, just helping raise money for charity and getting my steps in before the grand feast. (The participation medal doesn’t hurt either.) If you can’t fathom why anyone would pay to run on their day off, you’re not alone — see The New Yorker’s headline: “The Turkey Trot Is for Wimps.” Anyway, here’s hoping this race doesn’t set me too far behind — I’m in charge of the side dish this year. Now, let’s get to the sports headlines…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
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Pass the Pie and the Remote
Thanksgiving really leans into tradition: turkey, football — and your uncle who turns into an NFL commentator the second the game is on. When the table talk dries up like an overcooked bird, three NFL showdowns will be waiting for you. Here’s the game plan:
The matchups: The Lions vs. Packers kick off as the 1 pm ET appetizer, and the Cowboys vs. Chiefs bring main-course energy at 4:30 pm ET. Then, the Bengals vs. Ravens close things out at 8:20 pm ET just in time for you to decide on that extra slice of pie. Oh, and every game is chaotically on a different channel.
Blood, sweat, and bets: Expect plenty of rivalry energy and upset potential. While this isn’t the Super Bowl, these teams are fighting for playoff contention. Will the Chiefs boost their chances of making an appearance? Will the Packers clinch another victory over the Lions this season? And will your fantasy lineup finally deliver a (much-needed) win?
The halftime shows: Each showdown has its own mini–Super Bowl moment. Jack White, Lil Jon (Yeaaaahhhhhh!?!?), Post Malone, and (per holiday tradition, most likely) the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders are all hitting the stage. Consider it the perfect breather from the table debate you didn’t want to be part of anyway.
Eyes on the suites and sidelines: Everyone’s on Taylor Swift alert — because one holiday tunnel fit could break the internet. QB Joe Burrow’s likely back on the field (crystals crossed), and the usual WAG/celeb-cameo roulette means the sideline people-watching should hit like that postmeal walk.
It’s safe to say at least one matchup will likely ruin someone’s holiday — unless the family drama beats the games to it. Whatever happens, we call it the perfect combo of carbs, chaos, and enough football to distract from your aunt asking when you’re settling down.
