Nfl Matchups

Kansas City at Detroit

Line: Chiefs by 2.

Last meeting: Chiefs won 43-24 in Kansas City in 1990.

Key stats: Home holiday advantage? The Lions are a modest 28-26-2 on Thanksgiving, including wins in the last two (Buffalo ‘94, Minnesota ‘95).

Worth watching: The Chiefs bench QB Steve Bono and give Rich Gannon a chance to revive NFL’s No. 21 passing offense. Will the Lions give the ball to Barry Sanders?

Outlook: With five losses in the last six games, Lions and the career of coach Wayne Fontes are on the slide. The Lions traditionally play well late in the season, but it would be a big surprise if it kicks in this season. Owner William Clay Ford, among the NFL’s most patient, declined to offer support this week. Quarterback Scott Mitchell said the season has been a “grab bag.” And the Chiefs are in the playoff hunt.

Redskins at Cowboys

Line: Cowboys by 8-1/2.

Last meeting: Redskins won 24-17 at Dallas on Dec. 3, 1995.

Key stats: Cowboys are 19-8-1 on Thanksgiving.

Worth watching: Can the Redskins get a big game out of RB Terry Allen against the Dallas defense? Will Dallas RB Emmitt Smith pull out of his slump?

Outlook: Once again, Dallas finds itself in one of those must-win situations. A win gives the Redskins a two-game lead over the Cowboys in the NFC East with only three to play. Smith should be able to run against one of the NFL’s worst defenses, which the Redskins can’t keep covering for all season.