Sweet, sweet tradition

Ah, I'm pleased to say that, once again, Thanksgiving brought back memories.

Traditionally, my family and I once again watched the parade in the morning. Traditionally, we headed to my aunt and uncle's house for dinner. And, traditionally, the Lions lost. Badly.

Yes! This is the sweet Thanksgiving tradition: family, football, and losing. As usual, Thanksgiving brought out the best (or worst, whichever you prefer- there's little difference when discussing the Lions) in them.

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful. So let's see: I'm thankful this game is still here. The Packers are thankful that they got to play the Lions. The Lions' association is thankful that the game wasn't blacked out. And Daunte Culpepper is thankful for, well, on second thought, he probably isn't thankful for much of anything football related following Stafford's unexpected start.

Frank Caliendo did his John Madden impersonation. And he picked the Lions to win. Unfortunately, the video revealed him to be eating before the game, something I would never recommend for sake of one's health.

Of course, Matthew Stafford was the highlight of the day. Not only did he ruin Daunte Culpepper's day (again), but he even brought the turnovers, something the Lions have always had a lot of.

And unlike last year, the game actually wasn't over in the first quarter. Heck, the Lions were the first ones on the board this time, and that ought to merit something.

The two ways that the Lions love to lose are either by creating some hope, only to blow the game anyway, or simply being blown out of the water. This year, like many Thanksgivings, they did both.

Look at how this fine tradition continues. And the NFL is threatening to take this game away? Psh, they'd be better off taking away the Wolverines' Ohio State game.

The tradition must go on, regardless of the Lions mediocrity. The game can not be taken away. Not now. Not when the Lions are already having trouble selling tickets. Tradition must live on.

Can you imagine a Thanksgiving without the Lions game? Just think, there would be no one for us to count on to lose. It would be a terrible nightmare, not being able to watch our losers with our family.

So be thankful for Thanksgiving.