DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions say Canadian rock band Nickelback will play at halftime of their Thanksgiving Day game against the Green Bay Packers.
The Detroit News says unconfirmed reports last week that Nickelback would perform at Ford Field drew widespread opposition, including an Internet petition drive that gathered at least 50,000 signatures. Signers say they wanted a group with stronger local ties.
Nickelback lead singer Chad Kroeger says in a statement that the band from Hanna, Alberta, is "honored to perform" and that he and his bandmates "always love playing in Detroit."
Nickelback's new album, "Here and Now," will be released Nov. 21.
The Lions also say the National Anthem will be sung by Lauren Alaina, who was runner-up in the 10th season of "American Idol."
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
