Thanksgiving is about more than just turkey and pie—it’s also about gathering with family and watching some of the most exciting football games of the year. The NFL has long been a Thanksgiving Day staple, offering fans unforgettable moments on the field. For legendary coach Bill Belichick, Thanksgiving holds a special place in his career, thanks to some remarkable victories with the New England Patriots.
During a recent episode of the COACH podcast, Belichick and his colleagues, Michael Lombardi and Matt Patricia, reflected on the role of football in Thanksgiving celebrations. Together, they relived some of the Patriots’ most iconic Thanksgiving moments, including a game that went down in history as one of the NFL’s strangest: the infamous “Butt Fumble” match against the New York Jets.
The perfect pairing: Football and Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving and football have been intertwined for decades. The tradition of Thanksgiving Day games started in 1934 when the Detroit Lions hosted the Chicago Bears. Since then, fans across the country have looked forward to watching their favorite teams play while enjoying their holiday meals.
Michael Lombardi captured the spirit of this tradition perfectly, emphasizing the joy of spending Thanksgiving surrounded by “football, friends, and family.” For many, watching the annual games has become just as important as carving the turkey.
Bill Belichick’s Thanksgiving victories
Belichick’s career is filled with historic wins, but a few Thanksgiving victories stand out. On the podcast, the coach reminisced about these unforgettable games, highlighting three key matchups:
- 2002 vs. Detroit Lions: The Patriots secured a win against the Lions, a Thanksgiving Day tradition for Detroit.
- 2010 vs. Detroit Lions: Another victory for the Patriots over the Lions, solidifying Belichick’s knack for holiday success.
- 2012 vs. New York Jets: This game became legendary for one bizarre play that still gets talked about today—the “Butt Fumble.”
Revisiting the ‘Butt Fumble’ game
One of the most unforgettable moments in NFL history took place on Thanksgiving in 2012. The Patriots faced off against the Jets in what would become a game fans would never forget.
The now-famous “Butt Fumble” occurred when Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez accidentally collided with his own teammate, Brandon Moore, leading to a fumble. Patriots safety Steve Gregory quickly seized the opportunity, returning the fumble for a touchdown. The Patriots went on to dominate the game, winning 49-19.
While the play was disastrous for the Jets, it became an iconic moment in NFL lore, embodying the unpredictability that makes football so thrilling.
A rivalry for the ages
The Patriots-Jets rivalry is one of the NFL’s most enduring. Over the years, Belichick’s success against the Jets has only added to the intensity of their matchups. Reflecting on the 2012 win, Belichick shared how meaningful it is to clinch a victory on Thanksgiving. Winning on this holiday, he said, adds an extra layer of celebration for players and fans alike.
Creating new memories
Thanksgiving football games are about more than just wins and losses—they’re about creating lasting memories. Families gather around the TV, cheering for their favorite teams, and those moments become part of the holiday tradition. Whether it’s reliving past glories or watching new ones unfold, football on Thanksgiving has a special way of bringing people together.
Belichick’s reflections on his Thanksgiving victories remind fans why these games hold such a cherished place in the holiday season. They’re not just about competition; they’re about community, tradition, and the joy of the game.
Why Thanksgiving football matters
Thanksgiving football has a unique ability to unite people. It’s a chance to celebrate not only the sport but also the bonds that it fosters. As families sit down to their holiday feasts, the excitement of a touchdown or the tension of a close game adds to the festive atmosphere.
For fans, these games are more than just entertainment—they’re a way to create shared experiences that last a lifetime. And for the players and coaches, the opportunity to perform on Thanksgiving is a special honor.
Looking ahead to more holiday thrills
As the NFL continues its Thanksgiving tradition, fans can look forward to more thrilling moments on the field. Each year brings new matchups and new memories, ensuring that football remains an essential part of the holiday experience.
So, as you prepare to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal, don’t forget to carve out time for some football. After all, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of watching your favorite team play on one of the biggest days of the year. Whether it’s a hard-fought victory or a surprising upset, Thanksgiving football has a way of making the holiday even more special.
Conclusion
For Bill Belichick and countless other fans, Thanksgiving and football are inseparable. The memories created on the field become part of the holiday’s rich tapestry, adding excitement and joy to the season. As the tradition continues, so too will the stories that make Thanksgiving football a celebration in its own right.
This year, as you gather with loved ones, remember to raise a toast not just to the food on the table, but also to the game that has brought families together for generations. Here’s to touchdowns, triumphs, and the enduring magic of Thanksgiving football.
