In recent years, the NFL has been making a strong push to claim Christmas as its own. This year is no exception, with two high-profile matchups scheduled for December 25th. Despite the absence of NFL games on Christmas Eve, fans will still have plenty to look forward to in the coming days. The holiday season brings not only festive cheer but also intense football action, as the league wraps up its regular season. With five consecutive days of NFL football during Week 17, the two Christmas Day games promise to be highlights of the week.

Christmas Eve and Beyond: A Closer Look at the NFL's Holiday Schedule

In the midst of a busy Week 17 schedule, Christmas Eve stands out as one of the few days this week without any NFL games. However, college football enthusiasts can catch South Florida taking on San José State. As fans prepare for the holiday festivities, anticipation builds for the following day's NFL doubleheader. On Christmas Day, the Pittsburgh Steelers will face off against the Kansas City Chiefs at 1 p.m. ET in Pittsburgh's Acrisure Stadium, while the Houston Texans challenge the Baltimore Ravens at 4:30 p.m. ET in Houston's NRG Stadium. Both games will stream on Netflix and air locally on CBS affiliates in select markets.

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, have shown remarkable resilience despite facing ankle injuries. After overcoming a sprain in 2022, Mahomes once again delivered an outstanding performance, leading the Chiefs to a strong offensive showing against the Texans. Although pass protection remains a concern, the Chiefs' defensive improvements offer hope for a successful playoff run. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens, despite slipping slightly in the power rankings, have demonstrated their ability to adapt and improve. Lamar Jackson's leadership and the team's versatile offense make them a formidable opponent heading into the playoffs.

From a journalist's perspective, these Christmas Day matchups highlight the growing importance of the holiday in the NFL calendar. The league's strategic scheduling not only captivates fans but also showcases the depth and talent of its teams. As we witness these thrilling contests, it's clear that the NFL is positioning itself as a central part of the holiday tradition, offering both excitement and entertainment for football enthusiasts across the country.