FRISCO, Texas — Thanksgiving delivers one of the NFL’s most anticipated clashes as the Dallas Cowboys host the Kansas City Chiefs in a rare holiday meeting between two of the league’s biggest franchises.
The last time these two teams played on Thanksgiving was in 1995, when the Cowboys defeated Kansas City behind a strong performance from Troy Aikman. Thirty years later, the rivalry returns with a new generation of stars and postseason implications very much in play.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 PM ET / 3:30 PM CT at AT&T Stadium. A complete breakdown of all Thanksgiving games is available here: NFL Thanksgiving Games 2025 – Full Schedule.
Mahomes vs Prescott: Center Stage
This matchup belongs to Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott. The two quarterbacks have only faced each other once before — a low-scoring 19–9 Chiefs victory in 2021. Now they meet on one of football’s biggest stages, with Kansas City entering at 6–5 and Dallas at 5-5-1.
The Chiefs arrive with renewed confidence after a dramatic comeback win last week, finally snapping a troubling run of close losses. Last season, Kansas City dominated one-score games. This year, the margins have been thinner — and far more painful. The overtime victory felt less like a win and more like a second chance.
“We’ve got to build off momentum. We’re playing a good team in Dallas. It’s about rebounding fast. And getting to do it on Thanksgiving makes it even bigger.” — Patrick Mahomes
Cowboys Finding Their Identity
Dallas has quietly reinvented itself over the last two weeks. Strong defensive performances against the Raiders and Eagles have shifted the mood inside the locker room. The front seven has been disruptive, the secondary more disciplined, and the run defense has tightened at exactly the right moment.
Play-action has been the engine of Dallas’ offense all season. When Prescott is comfortable, the Cowboys operate with efficiency and tempo. Kansas City has been vulnerable in this area, which could shape early momentum.
Injury Watch
The Cowboys will be without starting left tackle Tyler Guyton (ankle), leaving Nate Thomas to protect Prescott’s blind side. Cornerback Caelen Carson remains questionable. The rest of Dallas’ key defensive pieces have been confirmed available.
Kansas City is also shorthanded up front, losing right guard Trey Smith. Tight end Noah Gray is out, and depth in the secondary is thin. Still, Mahomes will suit up — along with Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy.
Latest status updates are tracked by ESPN’s injury hub.
Odds and Prediction
Despite traveling, Kansas City enters as a narrow favorite. Dallas enjoys the home crowd, Thanksgiving tradition, and improved defense — but Mahomes rarely loses these moments.
Prediction: Chiefs 27, Cowboys 23
Expect a game of swings, noise, pressure — and one final throw that decides everything.
Live coverage and betting lines are updated by CBS Sports NFL.
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