Thanksgiving Day has become a beloved tradition in the NFL, offering fans a chance to gather with family and friends to enjoy thrilling games filled with unforgettable moments. Over the years, Thanksgiving games have given us some of the most jaw-dropping, “OMG” plays that have left fans speechless. From miraculous catches to stunning defensive plays, here are the best “OMG” moments in NFL Thanksgiving history that have kept us on the edge of our seats.
Randy Moss’ “Hail Mary” Catch (1998)
One of the most iconic Thanksgiving plays came from Randy Moss, who put on a show in 1998. In a game against the Dallas Cowboys, Moss made a jaw-dropping catch, leaping over defenders to secure a “Hail Mary” pass from quarterback Randall Cunningham. This amazing play not only left fans in awe but also helped solidify Moss’s reputation as one of the most dominant receivers in NFL history.
The Miracle on the Field – Leon Lett’s Thanksgiving Fumble (1993)
In what is still remembered as one of the most bizarre and shocking plays in NFL history, Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Leon Lett made a colossal mistake during a Thanksgiving Day game against the Miami Dolphins. With the Cowboys leading late in the game, Lett tried to recover a blocked field goal attempt but inadvertently touched the ball, allowing the Dolphins to recover and score a game-winning touchdown. This stunning blunder left everyone—including Lett himself—staring in disbelief.
Calvin Johnson’s One-Handed Catch (2011)
Detroit Lions’ receiver Calvin Johnson pulled off one of the most incredible one-handed catches in NFL history during a 2011 Thanksgiving game against the Green Bay Packers. As quarterback Matthew Stafford threw a high pass into the end zone, Johnson reached out with one hand, managing to secure the ball with a defender draped all over him. It was an instant “OMG” moment, and fans still talk about it today.
Barry Sanders’ 80-Yard Touchdown Run (1997)
Barry Sanders, one of the NFL’s most electrifying running backs, gave us one of the best “OMG” moments on Thanksgiving in 1997. Against the Chicago Bears, Sanders broke free for an 80-yard touchdown, showcasing his agility and vision. He weaved through defenders, broke multiple tackles, and showed why he was one of the greatest to ever play the game.
Des Bryant’s Touchdown Catch (2014)
In a highly anticipated game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles, wide receiver Dez Bryant made a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch. Bryant reached out with his left hand, snagging a pass from quarterback Tony Romo in the corner of the end zone. The acrobatic nature of the catch had fans in complete awe, making it one of the best plays of that Thanksgiving.
DeSean Jackson’s Punt Return TD (2010)
In a memorable 2010 Thanksgiving matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys, DeSean Jackson delivered one of the most exciting punt returns in NFL history. Jackson took a punt deep in his own territory, danced past multiple Cowboys defenders, and sprinted 60 yards for a touchdown. The electrifying play sealed the game for the Eagles and gave fans one of the most exhilarating moments in Thanksgiving football.
Michael Irvin’s Leap for the Catch (1999)
Michael Irvin, the legendary Dallas Cowboys wide receiver, provided an “OMG” moment in 1999 when he made a leaping catch against the Washington Redskins. Irvin jumped into the air, snagging a high pass over a defender and maintaining control of the ball as he crashed to the ground. This unforgettable play was a testament to Irvin’s incredible skill and athleticism.
The “Killer” Block by Leroy Hard (1994)
On Thanksgiving Day 1994, Leroy Hard of the Detroit Lions made a powerful statement when he broke through the defense with a brutal block that led to a long touchdown run. The hit was so vicious that it sent the defender flying, allowing the running back to race down the sideline for a score. Fans were left gasping at the sheer power and impact of the play.
The Brett Favre Touchdown (1995)
In a Thanksgiving game against the Detroit Lions in 1995, Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre threw a deep touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Freeman. The ball was perfectly thrown, hitting Freeman in stride, and he managed to catch it in the end zone, despite tight coverage. Favre’s ability to thread the needle on that throw was an instant classic, leaving fans saying, “OMG, that was perfect!”
Matt Stafford’s “No Look” Touchdown Pass (2012)
Detroit Lions quarterback Matt Stafford had one of the best “OMG” plays of Thanksgiving in 2012. On a crucial drive, Stafford threw a “no-look” touchdown pass to tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who was in tight coverage. Stafford’s ability to deceive the defense and thread the ball into Pettigrew’s hands was a thing of beauty. Fans watching were left in awe, wondering how Stafford pulled it off with such precision.
Steve Gregory’s Interception and Return (2010)
In a 2010 Thanksgiving game between the New England Patriots and the Detroit Lions, safety Steve Gregory made an interception and returned it for a touchdown. Gregory’s quick thinking and awareness on the field made the play even more spectacular, as he cut across the field and outran Lions players for the score. It was a huge momentum shift in the game and a defining moment for the Patriots.
Jacoby Jones’ 108-Yard Kickoff Return (2011)
During a Thanksgiving game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones made history with a 108-yard kickoff return touchdown. It was the longest kickoff return touchdown in NFL history, and it left fans absolutely stunned. Jones’ blazing speed and determination made this play one of the most memorable of the day.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving Day NFL games have delivered some of the most thrilling, “OMG” moments in football history. From stunning catches to electrifying runs and miraculous plays, these unforgettable moments have kept fans talking long after the final whistle. Whether it’s a spectacular individual effort or a team-wide game-changer, the NFL has given us some incredible memories every Thanksgiving, ensuring that this holiday tradition will continue to deliver jaw-dropping moments for years to come.
