Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is set to play in his first-ever Thanksgiving Day game, and ahead of the matchup, he reflected on his childhood memories of watching the Detroit Lions, a long-time holiday staple.
During his media availability this week, Burrow shared that Thanksgiving in his house always included food, family and — of course — football. For many years, that meant watching the Lions, even if the results were often predictable.
Joe Burrow Recalls Watching Lions Lose on Thanksgiving
Burrow laughed as he remembered Detroit’s holiday performances when he was younger.
“Like a lot of kids, you eat Thanksgiving dinner, then sit on the couch. There’s not much on except football,” Burrow said. “It was always the Lions and somebody. You’d watch Matthew Stafford throw for 300 or 400 yards to Calvin Johnson — and probably lose the game. But it was fun to watch.”
Now 28 years old, Burrow is returning from a long absence after undergoing surgery for a turf toe injury in Week 2. Despite the Bengals’ 3-8 record, the former No. 1 pick insisted that he wanted to finish the season strong.
“I’m a football player. If I’m healthy enough to play, I’m going to play,” he said. “I’m never going to live my life being scared that something might happen.”
Dan Campbell Discusses Importance of Lions vs. Packers on Thanksgiving
While Burrow prepares for his return, the Detroit Lions are gearing up for a crucial Thanksgiving showdown against the Green Bay Packers.
Head coach Dan Campbell spoke on Tuesday about what the holiday game means this year.
“It’s opportunity,” Campbell said. “You only have a few days to get ready, but our guys are in the right mindset. You cut them loose and let them play their game.”
Campbell emphasized the magnitude of the matchup: a divisional game, a strong opponent and the honor of kicking off Thanksgiving Day.
“Big-time opponent, division game, Thanksgiving — first game on. You couldn’t ask for anything better.”
