The NFL’s historic Bears vs. Lions rivalry will once again take center stage on Thanksgiving in 2026. According to a report by NFL reporter Jordan Schultz, the Chicago Bears are scheduled to face the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on November 26, 2026.
The Thanksgiving matchup marks the sixth time the NFC North rivals have met on the holiday since the 2014 season. Detroit currently holds a 3-2 advantage in Thanksgiving games against Chicago, including victories in both 2025 contests.
For Bears head coach Ben Johnson, the Thanksgiving game carries added significance. Johnson served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator from 2022 to 2024 before taking over as Chicago’s head coach. He remains winless against his former team in regular-season play.
The NFL has already finalized multiple Thanksgiving matchups for 2026. The Philadelphia Eagles are set to face the Dallas Cowboys in the traditional primetime slot, while the Lions will travel to Buffalo for a Thursday Night Football game in Week 2 of the regular season.