Thanksgiving is here Packers fans have a lot to be thankful for. The team is 8-3 and in first place in the NFC North.

Here is a look at some things fans of the Green and Gold can be thankful for this year. I want to start by thanking everybody for reading my articles and to wish everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.

1. The Fans Own the Team

The ownership structure of the Packers is unique and it’s the only major league team in North American pro spots where the fans own the team.

This year, more people had the opportunity to join that group and buy stock in the Packers.

No, buying stock doesn’t pay dividends and it doesn’t increase in value, but there is pride in ownership and the knowledge that you are helping your favorite team compete financially and improve their facilities and infrastructure.

This unique situation is a good thing for Packers fans.

2. Three Decades of Hall of Fame Quarterback Play

The Packers have had a Hall of Fame-caliber starting quarterback on their roster every year since Brett Favre joined the franchise in 1992. The last three decades have had their ups and downs, but they have been a period of sustained winning for the franchise with Favre and now Aaron Rodgers under center.

Fans old enough to remember the years between Bart Starr’s retirement and Favre’s arrival remember the uncertainty that often plagued the team at quarterback and the scarcity of winning seasons between 1968 and 1991.

With Rodgers’ future in Green Bay after this year uncertain, fans should be even more thankful for this extended run of outstanding quarterback play.

3. Lambeau Field

There’s a reason a visit to Lambeau Field is on so many football fans bucket lists, even if they aren’t Packers fans. The stadium has been the home of the Packers since 1957 and it has the best sightlines in the NFL.

In addition, the atmosphere at Lambeau is special. Anybody who loves tailgating knows how good that activity is pre-game in Green Bay. Beer, cheese, brats and so many other tasty treats.

Plus, Packers fans have the reputation of being one of the most welcoming and friendly fans in the country. They are welcoming to visiting fans and knowledgeable about the game.

Add the fact that the Packers play on natural grass and outdoors in “football weather” which creates some memorable bad weather memories as well.

Add special traditions like the Lambeau Leap and players riding kids bicycles to and from the field at training camp and you have a unique and special fan experience.

A trip to Lambeau Field is special and its something Packers fans should be thankful for.

4. History

The Packers have existed since 1919 and been in the NFL since 1921. They have won more championships than any other team in the league. No other franchise in league history has ever won three consecutive championships, but the Packers have done it twice, from 1929-31 and again from 1965-67.

Few teams can match the Packers unique history and legacy. The organization also has former players return regularly and stay involved in the organization and that only adds to the atmosphere surrounding the team.

5. Hall of Famers

Only one team (the Bears) has more Hall of Famers than the Packers. From Curly Lambeau, Johnny Blood and Don Hutson to Bart Starr, Herb Adderley, Paul Hornung, Jim Taylor, Willie Davis, James Lofton, Reggie White and Brett Favre, the Packers have had so many outstanding players over the years.

The Packers also have the legacy of the man considered by many to be the greatest coach in NFL history, Vince Lombardi who won five championships in seven seasons from 1961-67. Lombardi transcended football and became a part of American culture.

Packers fans have seen some outstanding players wear a Packers uniform over the years and they have some more this season.

6. Matt LaFleur

Packers fans should be thankful for head coach Matt LaFleur. Through two plus seasons, LaFleur has a record of 34-9. His teams have won two straight NFC North titles and are in the driver’s seat to win a third this season.

LaFleur doesn’t get the respect he deserves. He is an innovative play caller and a good leader. One thing his teams have always done is keep their cool when they face adversity and the coach sets that tone for the team. He also has a good working relationship with his players.

The difference in this team was very noticeable the minute LaFleur arrived in Green Bay and the fans should appreciate what he has brought to the franchise.

7. The Way This Team Deals with Adversity

This has not been an easy season for the Packers. Injuries have hit the team hard with Pro Bowlers like Za’Darius Smith, Jaire Alexander, Elgton Jenkins and David Bakhtiari missing significant time. Aaron Rodgers missed a game because of Covid and now is playing through a painful toe injury. Aaron Jones has missed time due to injury as has Josh Myers, Kevin King, Robert Tonyan, Allen Lazard, MVS and Rashan Gary and that list is far from complete.

The Packers are still 8-3 and have found a way to overcome adversity throughout the season. It’s always “next man up” for this team and they find a way to get it done. Players like Rasul Douglas, Equanimeous St. Brown, Lucas Patrick and Yosh Nijman have stepped up and helped this team win football games. It’s been a special season and if they can keep it up, it can be even more special before it’s over.