What is Madden Thanksgiving MVP? Micah Parsons takes home trophy after Cowboys' win vs Giants
Former NFL coach and announcer John Madden was a legendary football icon, both in coaching and broadcasting.
As a sports broadcaster, Madden was known for his Thanksgiving Day games of which he called a total of 20 games. He also helped popularize the famous "turducken," to the game's most impressive player.
The NFL carried on Madden's tradition by giving a Madden Thanksgiving MVP to the game's most impressive player. Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons earned the honor this year as he had three tackles, one tackle for a loss, one-and-a-half sacks, six pressures and four quarterback hits in their 27-20 win over the New York Giants.
Parsons led the Cowboys' defense that only allowed 247 yards forced two turnovers and had a defensive touchdown. The win was Dallas' first at home this season.
The MVPs of each game are presented with a Madden Trophy as well as a $10,000 donation to a local high school/youth program.
Before each of the three NFL games today, the NFL had a Madden Thanksgiving tribute video, showing his love for calling games on the holiday.
Micah Parsons shows confidence in team's ability to make a playoff run after Thanksgiving Day win
With the win, the Dallas Cowboys improved to 5-7 and are now on a two-game winning streak. Dallas has struggled all season, sitting behind the Philadelphia Eagles (9-2) and Washington Commanders (7-5) in the division.
With the win, it keeps Dallas' slim hopes at a playoff chance alive. After the win, Micah Parsons showed his confidence in his team's ability to make a playoff run with the momentum they have.
Parsons said:
"It's been why not us, everyone's counted us out. Enough's enough. We know what we got. We know what we can do here, and I believe in every one of these guys and I believe we're going to turn it around and make a run."
The Cowboys face the Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders in their remaining schedule.
Dallas would likely need to win at least three or four games to have a shot at the last Wild Card seed in the NFC.
Do you think they pull it off? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.