Thanksgiving in the NFL: A Deep Dive into Week 13 Matchups

As NFL fans gear up for one of the most cherished traditions in American sports, Thanksgiving serves as a backdrop for thrilling matchups that often shape the trajectory of the season. In 2025, the Week 13 slate is packed with excitement, featuring iconic teams and memorable rivalries. According to ESPN Research, the average over/under point total is set at 51.2, marking the highest figure for Thanksgiving games in the past 40 years. Here’s a closer look at what to expect this Turkey Day.

What We’re Anticipating

This year’s Thanksgiving Day games embody intensity and competitive spirit. Six teams are poised to deliver exhilarating performances, and our NFL Nation reporters have the inside scoop. They’ll unravel key storylines and historical context for each team’s Thanksgiving pedigree.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Dallas Cowboys

Time: 4:30 PM ET
Broadcasters: CBS/Paramount+
Betting Line: KC -3 (O/U 52.5)

The Chiefs’ Outlook

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by the dynamic quarterback Patrick Mahomes, are on a mission to build momentum after their dramatic comeback against the Colts last week. Mahomes highlighted the importance of consistency, stating, “Now we just have to build off that momentum.” The Chiefs are aiming to shake off a streak of narrow losses, having previously gone 0-5 in games decided by one score this season.

Cowboys Defense on Alert

On the flip side, the Dallas Cowboys have demonstrated tenacious defense, shutting down key offensive units in their recent victories against the Raiders and Eagles. Defensive tackle Kenny Clark emphasizes the challenge of facing Mahomes, stating, “Anytime you go against Patrick, you’ve got to have all your T’s crossed and I’s dotted.” The Cowboys possess the tools to pressure star quarterbacks, making this a must-watch clash.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens

Time: 8:20 PM ET
Broadcasters: NBC/Peacock
Betting Line: BAL -7 (O/U 52.5)

Bengals’ Focus

The Bengals are keen on improving their turnover margin, a crucial stat that distinguished their wins from losses in recent seasons. With a history of division battles, safety Geno Stone notes, “Whoever takes the ball away is going to win.” The Bengals are adapting as they face off against a formidable Ravens team.

Ravens’ Star Power

The Ravens, bolstered by running back Derrick Henry, are vying to capitalize on a Bengals defense that has struggled against the run, allowing an alarming 156 yards per game. Coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the momentum Henry brings, looking ahead at his potential position on the all-time rushing list. “Maybe we’ll wait until he cracks the top 10,” Harbaugh quipped.

Key Stats and Predictions

As we delve into the statistics supporting each team’s path to victory, it’s clear that both matchups hinge on individual performances and defensive schemes.

Kansas City Chiefs

• Stat to Note: The Chiefs broke their one-score game drought against the Colts, highlighting a refreshing turnaround.
• Game Prediction: Analysts Predict a high-scoring affair given the Cowboys’ shaky defense in managing zone coverage.

Dallas Cowboys

• Stat to Note: The Cowboys have excelled with play-action, with Dak Prescott leading the league in QBR on such plays.
• Game Prediction: Expect the Cowboys to leverage their running game against a vulnerable Chiefs defense that struggles against play-action.

Cincinnati Bengals

• Stat to Note: Running back Chase Brown has recorded over 100 scrimmage yards in five consecutive games, showcasing his emerging consistency.
• Game Prediction: Despite the offensive firepower, turnovers will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome against a disciplined Ravens squad.

Baltimore Ravens

• Stat to Note: Lamar Jackson, a standout performer in prime-time games, has an impressive career record, second only to Hall of Famer Steve Young.
• Game Prediction: The Ravens’ combination of rushing prowess and defensive discipline could give them the upper hand in this gripping divisional rivalry.

Fantasy Insights and Betting Nuggets

With fantasy leagues reaching their climax, players will need to navigate rosters carefully to optimize performance against the competition.

Kansas City and Dallas Fantasy Considerations

• For the Chiefs: Leaning on Mahomes and the wide receiving corps could yield big returns, particularly given the Cowboys’ high allowance of fantasy points to receivers.
• For the Cowboys: Look to exploit play-action opportunities, especially with Prescott executing at a high level right now.

Cincinnati and Baltimore Fantasy Strategies

• For the Bengals: Managers should maximize the potential of Chase Brown, whose recent performances make him a tempting start.
• For the Ravens: Strong matchups against the Bengals’ defense position Jackson and Henry as must-starts for fantasy managers.

Betting Trends

The Cowboys are 4-1 against the spread as underdogs, while the Chiefs have struggled on the road. On the other hand, Ravens’ games have consistently trended toward the over, presenting intriguing betting opportunities for gamers and casual fans alike.

Thanksgiving Game Memories

Reflecting on the past, both the Bengals and Ravens have unique Thanksgiving traditions. The Bengals’ past includes a singular, fleeting moment back in 2010, while the Ravens recall the iconic sideline incident involving Mike Tomlin in 2013. Such narratives enhance the drama of this special day, reminding fans of the long-standing rivalries that underpin the league’s history.

As the stage is set for an electrifying Thanksgiving day of NFL football, fans are left anticipating nail-biting moments, game-changing plays, and timeless memories to cherish well beyond the celebration of turkey and football.