The 2024 NFL Thanksgiving schedule is set to kick off with three exciting matchups, and we have all the details you need to know for the holiday games. Our NFL Nation reporters have provided key insights into each game, while analytics writer Seth Walder has made bold predictions for each contest. The ESPN Research team offers important stats and betting nuggets for each matchup, and our Football Power Index (FPI) delves into the numbers with game projections. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody highlights fantasy football X factors, and three analysts give their final score picks for every game. Additionally, we take a look at the best moments from each team’s Thanksgiving history.
Let’s begin with the Bears and Lions matchup, which will mark their 20th meeting on Thanksgiving Day. The Lions are currently favored by 10 points with an over/under of 48.5. The Bears will be looking to wide receiver DJ Moore, who has been a standout player in recent weeks under new offensive coordinator Thomas Brown. On the Lions’ side, they aim to secure their first Thanksgiving victory since 2016 and continue their impressive offensive performance this season. Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson is predicted to make a big impact by intercepting Lions quarterback Jared Goff. Injuries to both teams will also play a role in the game, with fantasy X factor Jahmyr Gibbs expected to shine for the Lions.
The Lions are predicted to win by our analysts, with the FPI giving them a 76.2% chance of victory. This matchup has a rich Thanksgiving Day history, with the Bears leading the series 11-8, including three consecutive wins from 2018 to 2021. The Lions will be looking to turn the tide and secure a win on Thanksgiving.
Moving on to the Giants and Cowboys matchup, where the Cowboys are favored by 4 points with an over/under of 37.5. The Giants are struggling with six consecutive losses and quarterback injuries, while the Cowboys are aiming to put together a winning streak and secure their first home win of the season. Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II will be a player to watch, as he aims to add to his impressive sack total for the season. Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is expected to have a strong performance, especially with backup quarterback Cooper Rush under center. The Cowboys are favored to win, with a 52.6% chance according to the FPI.
Lastly, the Dolphins will face the Packers in the evening matchup, with the Packers favored by 3.5 points and an over/under of 46.5. The Dolphins will need to overcome their cold weather struggles to secure a win in Green Bay, while the Packers will look to continue their success in the red zone. Dolphins edge rusher Chop Robinson is predicted to have a standout performance with multiple sacks, while running back De’Von Achane will be crucial for Miami’s offense. The Packers have a solid record in cold weather games, giving them a 66.3% chance of victory according to the FPI.
Overall, the Thanksgiving Day matchups promise to be exciting and filled with intriguing storylines. From key players to injury updates and historical statistics, these games are sure to entertain football fans across the country.
