The Cowboys know the feeling of helplessness against Henry all too well. In Week 3, they were overrun by the Ravens, losing 28-25. Henry gashed the Dallas defense for 151 yards and two scores, part of a 274-yard rushing onslaught.

If that sounds familiar, it should, because for decades the Lions and Cowboys have always hosted N.F.L. games on Thanksgiving. The Cowboys have played a home game on that day all but two years since 1966, and the Lions’ streak goes back uninterrupted to 1945.