The hype is real. For Dallas Cowboys Nation, Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey, it’s about a high-stakes, home-field showdown.

The Cowboys (5-5-1) are back on the field in less than 24 hours, hosting the Kansas City Chiefs (6-5) in the biggest game of the holiday, one that is not only crucial for the playoff picture but is predicted to make NFL history.

Advertisement

According to multiple reports, the late-afternoon game slot is expected to become the most-watched NFL regular-season game ever, possibly breaking the 42.1 million viewers set by the Cowboys-Giants game in 2022.

The league’s decision to pit two of its biggest television draws against each other on its most-watched day was certainly no accident.

With both teams coming off dramatic, come-from-behind wins last Sunday and desperately fighting for their playoff lives, analysts are even predicting an unprecedented 50 million viewers if the game is a fourth-quarter shootout.

The good news for Dallas fans is the historic home advantage the team has over Kansas City.

Advertisement

The Cowboys have a stellar 5-1 record against the Chiefs at home and have not lost to them in Dallas since Nov. 10, 1975, when the Chiefs eked out a 34-31 victory.

The team will lean on this 50-year streak of dominance as they look to secure their third straight win and finally put the team above a .500 record.

While Dallas has avoided serious injury piling up on the short week, they will be without starting left tackle Tyler Guyton, who is dealing with a high-ankle sprain and is not expected to play.

However, the team has a capable backup in Nate Thomas, who played well against the Eagles and will be tasked with protecting Dak Prescott against the Chiefs’ pass rush.

Advertisement

The defense, which has been immensely improved over the last two weeks with the addition of Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson, will face the ultimate test against Patrick Mahomes.

A win on Thursday could solidify the Cowboys’ playoff hopes and provide a massive jolt of momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.