Thanksgiving NFL games winners losers 49ers Cowboys impress Lions not so much

The Thanksgiving Day tripleheader saw the 49ers and Cowboys shine, while the Lions and Commanders struggled. Individual performances were also outstanding.

The three-game Thanksgiving Day tripleheader was a pivotal moment in the NFC playoff picture. The San Francisco 49ers established themselves as dominant forces in the NFC West, the Dallas Cowboys emerged as strong Super Bowl contenders, and the Green Bay Packers showcased their potential as postseason contenders. Individual performances also shone brightly, with DaRon Bland setting an NFL record with his fifth pick-six of the season and Christian McCaffrey's impressive two-touchdown game.

Dak Prescott's exceptional performance on Thanksgiving, where he threw for 331 yards and four touchdowns, showcased the Dallas Cowboys' offensive prowess. Additionally, Bland's record-setting pick-six and 10 tackles highlighted the strength of the Cowboys' defense. Despite missing key players, the Green Bay Packers' backups, such as Rashan Gary and Christian Watson, stepped up and delivered standout performances. Gary recorded three sacks and two forced fumbles, while Watson emerged as a top receiver for the team.

The San Francisco 49ers' victory over the Seattle Seahawks was a testament to their defensive dominance, holding the Seahawks to just 56 total yards in the first half and sacking Geno Smith six times. Christian McCaffrey's two-touchdown game and Deebo Samuel's versatility further solidified the 49ers' offensive prowess.

Conversely, the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders struggled in their Thanksgiving Day matchups. The Lions' offensive line, known for its strength, struggled to protect Jared Goff, resulting in a loss to the Packers. The Commanders' offense, led by Sam Howell, was overmatched by the Cowboys' defense, and the team's coaching staff faced scrutiny following a blowout loss.

Overall, the Thanksgiving Day games provided a clear picture of the NFC playoff landscape, with the 49ers, Cowboys, and Packers emerging as strong contenders, while the Lions and Commanders faced significant challenges. As the season progresses, these games will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the NFC playoff race.