Are you excited for Christmas NFL games? The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of NFL games on Christmas Day. This year, two thrilling matchups are set to bring football fans the perfect blend of holiday cheer and gridiron action.
The Ravens and Chiefs are on the road on December 25 to face AFC opponents, promising a day filled with intensity and drama.
Kansas City will visit the Pittsburgh Steelers in the opening game, while Baltimore heads to Texas later in the afternoon to take on the Houston Texans in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2023 divisional round matchup.
A Preview of the 2024 Christmas Day Matchups
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Chiefs and Steelers kick off the Christmas Day slate with a clash of two storied franchises. Kansas City, led by their dynamic offense, will look to outpace Pittsburgh’s gritty defense. Patrick Mahomes, known for his dazzling playmaking abilities, faces a formidable challenge in the Steelers’ pass rush, spearheaded by T.J. Watt. Pittsburgh’s offense, meanwhile, will rely on consistency from quarterback Kenny Pickett and their ground game to keep pace with the high-octane Chiefs.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans
In the afternoon matchup, the Ravens and Texans rekindle their rivalry in a game that has playoff implications written all over it. Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities are always a spectacle, and Houston’s defense will need to bring their A-game to contain the former MVP.
On the other side of the ball, rookie standout quarterback C.J. Stroud aims to continue his impressive ascent, hoping to exploit Baltimore’s secondary. This rematch of the 2023 divisional round promises fireworks as both teams fight to solidify their standings.
What Time Will The Christmas Day NFL Games Happen?
| Game | Time (ET) | Live stream |
| Steelers vs. Chiefs | 1 p.m. | Netflix |
| Texans vs. Ravens | 4:30 p.m. | Netflix |
Where to Watch Christmas Day NFL Games
TV Broadcast: Not available.
Live Streaming: Netflix | DAZN (Canada)
Both of the NFL’s Christmas Day games will be exclusively available for streaming on Netflix.
Game Commentary Teams:
- Steelers vs. Chiefs:
- Play-by-play: Ian Eagle
- Analyst: Nate Burleson, J.J. Watt
- Sideline Reporters: Melanie Collins, Stacey Dales
- Texans vs. Ravens:
- Play-by-play: Noah Eagle
- Analyst: Greg Olsen
- Sideline Reporters: Jamie Erdahl, Steve Wyche
For viewers in Canada, the games can be streamed on DAZN, which includes NFL Game Pass.
Where to Listen to Christmas Day NFL Games
Radio Broadcast: SiriusXM
Tune in to SiriusXM channel 88, NFL Radio, to hear the national broadcast of the Christmas Day NFL games. Team-specific channels for local calls will be announced soon.
The Tradition of NFL Christmas Games
The NFL’s tradition of scheduling games on Christmas Day began in 1971 with the legendary Dolphins vs. Chiefs playoff showdown. Over the years, these games have provided NFL fans with thrilling matchups, iconic moments, and unforgettable performances. While Thanksgiving football remains a staple, Christmas games have carved out their own special place in the hearts of fans.
Some franchises have become synonymous with holiday matchups. The Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions, both Thanksgiving regulars, have also contributed to memorable moments on Christmas Day. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans have all had their share of holiday battles, providing drama and excitement for fans watching Sunday Night Football or Monday Night Football during the festive season.
The Best Christmas Day Games in NFL History
The NFL on Christmas Day has given fans some of the most thrilling matchups in football history. Whether it’s the drama of regular season clashes or unforgettable playoff games, Christmas Day has become a cherished tradition for NFL fans. From historic moments to intense rivalries, let’s take a closer look at some of the best games ever played on this special holiday.
1971: Miami Dolphins vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arguably the most iconic game ever played on Christmas Day, the 1971 AFC Divisional Playoff between the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs set the standard for holiday football. This double-overtime thriller remains the longest game in NFL history, lasting over 82 minutes. The Dolphins emerged victorious, 27-24, after a clutch field goal by Garo Yepremian. NFL fans still regard this game as one of the greatest in league history, a true classic that helped establish the tradition of NFL games on Christmas Day.
1995: Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals
The Dallas Cowboys, often associated with Thanksgiving Day football, also made their mark on Christmas Day in 1995. Facing the Arizona Cardinals, the Cowboys showcased their dominance in a 37-13 victory. Behind Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin, the Cowboys proved why they were the reigning champions, giving NFL fans a holiday display of their powerhouse offense.
2004: Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings
Christmas Day 2004 brought an intense NFC North rivalry to the forefront as the Green Bay Packers faced off against the Minnesota Vikings. Brett Favre led the Packers to a thrilling 34-31 victory in a game that featured dramatic lead changes and a last-second field goal by Ryan Longwell. The game solidified its place as one of the most exciting regular season battles on Christmas Day.
2016: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the fiercest rivalries in the NFL, and their 2016 Christmas Day clash lived up to the hype. In a game that decided the AFC North title, the Steelers edged out the Ravens 31-27. Antonio Brown’s iconic “Immaculate Extension” touchdown in the closing seconds sealed the victory, providing a moment NFL fans won’t forget.
2022: Los Angeles Rams vs. Denver Broncos
In a more recent matchup, the Los Angeles Rams delivered a dominant performance against the Denver Broncos on Christmas Day 2022. The Rams’ 51-14 blowout victory was highlighted by an outstanding performance from Baker Mayfield, who threw two touchdown passes, and a stellar defensive showing that held the Broncos to just 14 points. Though the game was lopsided, it showcased the excitement that NFL Christmas games can bring.
Bet on Christmas Day NFL Games
As you enjoy the excitement of NFL action this Christmas, enhance the experience by placing bets on FanDuel and DraftKings.
Both platforms offer special Christmas sportsbook bonuses to make your holiday wagers even more rewarding.
Whether you’re betting on Patrick Mahomes’ passing yards or Lamar Jackson’s rushing touchdowns, these games provide a perfect opportunity to join the action. You can also bet on moneyline. Learn more about it here.
Head to FanDuel or DraftKings today and take advantage of their exclusive holiday offers. Don’t miss the chance to make this Christmas unforgettable with the thrill of betting on the NFL’s biggest stars and matchups.
Credits on featured image: CEBImagery
