Joe Murray’s Thanksgiving Musings

There is something about the Thanksgiving holiday that I appreciate more than the others. Of course, you would think because food is involved that might be the reason. I do love the food, and I'll have more on that in a bit. Growing up I enjoyed the Macy's Day Parade & a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. I always think about the three F's. Family, Food & Football. Most high schools have their rivalry game on Thanksgiving Day. It used to determine if a team would make the super bowl, but it was more for bragging rights. In later years it was tackle football amongst friends in the morning. We used to paint the field the night before, while family & friends would show up to the game. Below is a photo from Thanksgiving 1999.

The tradition of game day on Thanksgiving was first seen at the collegiate level. on Nov. 30, 1876, when Yale beat Princeton 2-0 led by Walter Camp. NFL teams first began playing on Thanksgiving Day in 1934 to boost the popularity of the sport and attract more fans by Detroit Lions owner George A. Richards. In 1966, the Dallas Cowboys became the second team to traditionally play on Thanksgiving. A third game was added to the lineup in 2006 and is awarded to different teams every year. The only team that has never played a Thanksgiving game is the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Over the years I noticed some new traditions on the 4th Thursday in November. I know some families that offer lasagna or cook a roast instead of the traditional turkey. Whatever the main course is on your holiday, there is nothing better than the sides. Stuffing, mashed potatoes, squash, corn, broccoli casserole, Biscuits or rolls with cranberry sauce.In or Out on Cranberry Sauce?  I didn't realize how controversial this topic was.  I prefer cranberry sauce out of a can, I also like it fresh from the bog but give me the lines in circle shaped sweetness. Some have compared it to Jello?

However you celebrate, take a moment to say what you are thankful for. Let it be acknowledged and shared amongst loved ones. I am thankful for another healthy year for myself and my family. I'm very thankful for all the listeners and your continued support. I wish you all a healthy & Happy Thanksgiving!

Listen to Joe Murray 6-11 every Monday-Friday on 98.5 The Sports Hub. You can listen live in the Sports Hub App and subscribe to their podcasts here. Follow on X @JoeyMurr and Instagram @ImJoeMurray keep up with the show!