The Cowboys-Chiefs game on Thanksgiving —which was hailed as a “dream scenario” for the NFL — attracted an average of 57.2 million viewers, by far the largest audience ever to watch a regular-season NFL game.
The viewing audience eclipsed the previous record of 42.1 million who watched the 2022 Thanksgiving game between the Cowboys and Giants.
The audience for this year’s game peaked with 61.357 viewers, according to CBS.
This year’s Thanksgiving matchup, which the Cowboys won, 31-28, was widely expected to be ratings gold because it had all the trappings of a must-see affair.
Business Briefing
On one side of AT&T Stadium was America’s Team, while on the other side were the Chiefs, who have become AFC’s version of America’s team during the Patrick Mahomes’ era. It is also partially the era of Taylor Swift, whose relationship with tight end Travis Kelce has enabled the franchise to transcend the traditional sports audience.
It helped that the game, close to an elimination game for both teams, was decided in the final minutes, with the Cowboys breathing life into once far-fetched playoff hopes.
Choctaw becomes Official Dallas World Cup 2026 Host City Supporter
World Cup Organizing Committee hails partnership as ‘big win’ because of Choctaw’s long-standing investment in D-FW sports.
Dallas Wings’ Paige Bueckers named to Forbes’ 30 under 30 list for 2026
The business magazine highlighted Bueckers after a standout year on and off the court.
Judge clears Dallas investor of $180M debt tied to Alliance of American Football bankruptcy
Dundon Capital Partners was accused of reneging on $250 million agreement to fund the failed football minor league venture.