Thanksgiving Special: Patriots players as the holiday's foods

The New England Patriots are set to travel and face off against the New York Giants in Week 12. Before they face off, both teams will celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday. While both teams are clearly struggling this season, this rivalry matchup is always fun to watch, considering the Giants are responsible for handing the Patriots two losses […]

Sophie Weller NFL Trending News Writer
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New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones leads the team to the field prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium
Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots are set to travel and face off against the New York Giants in Week 12. Before they face off, both teams will celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday.

While both teams are clearly struggling this season, this rivalry matchup is always fun to watch, considering the Giants are responsible for handing the Patriots two losses in the Super Bowl. And this time, while they aren't fighting for a Super Bowl championship, this is a key game for draft position. 

On the note of Thanksgiving, which of the holiday's foods symbolize Patriots players?

Turkey – David Andrews

After every tough loss this season, it has been David Andrews who has taken the podium first and addressed the media. The captain is the staple of the team, holding everything together. And because Thanksgiving typically centers around Turkey, it seems fitting that Andrews earns this honor.

Gravy – Jabrill Peppers

Jabrill Peppers is someone who manages to make his presence known wherever he is on the field. And with that, he manages to get everywhere. Gravy is a food that is spread across the top of every thanksgiving dish and goes with everything. With that, it doesn’t matter who Peppers plays with because he makes an impact regardless. 

Cranberry Sauce – Demario Douglas

This dish adds something sweet to the meal, which is exactly what Demario Douglas has done this season for the Patriots. The rookie receiver has made some big plays in clutch moments, while many of the other veteran receivers haven’t lived up to expectations.

Macaroni and Cheese – Trent Brown

This isn’t on everyone’s table during Thanksgiving, but when it is you certainly notice it. And that’s the same with Trent Brown. He’s been dealing with an injury a bit this season and has been forced to miss some games. While Conor McDermott has done a solid job filling in for him, when Brown is on the field, you immediately notice his impact.

Mashed Potatoes – Mike Onwenu

The offensive lineman was moved to right tackle this season and has excelled there. Because of that, he has shown that can be moved around. And like mashed potatoes, they are good wherever they go. 

Brussel Sprouts – Mac Jones 

Brussel Sprouts are a food that not everyone likes, but those that do, LOVE them. However, they remain a popular side dish during thanksgiving. That describes Mac Jones this year, with many having lost faith in the third-year quarterback after the struggles this season, but he keeps returning to the field as the starter and aiming to convince everyone that he is good. With a few games left, is this the time he can prove himself to the fanbase? 

Stuffing – Deatrich Wise

Stuffing is also a staple of Thanksgiving, but it isn't as flashy as the turkey that sits at the center of the table. That is Deatrich Wise. The defensive lineman is a long-term player, that is key to the team, but his contributions and efforts aren't always recognized on the stat sheets. 

Sweet Potato Casserole – Lawrence Guy

This one was easy, as the defensive lineman spent 10 minutes on Wednesday talking about how his favorite dishes at Thanksgiving are anything with sweet potato. Also, this is a very sweet dish, and Guy always comes to the media podium smiling and cracking jokes.

Apple Pie – Matthew Slater

A true leader of the team, Matthew Slater is known for being one of the nicest guys on the Patriots roster. His friendly personality combined with the fact that he is universally loved makes this choice very easy. 

Pumpkin Pie – Jahlani Tavai

A nice guy who remains fairly quiet, but has been a loud presence on the field. While Apple Pie typically is the main dessert of thanksgiving, the spices in pumpkin pie always pack a punch and Tavai has done just that for the Patriots this season, becoming a key player on defense. 

Pecan Pie – Ezekiel Elliott

Pecans are pretty tough and that describes Ezekiel Elliott. The running back drives through the opposing team’s offensive line to get some yards. And often there is no stopping his 6-foot-0, 225 pound build.