The Detroit Lions say the Canadian rock band Nickelback will play at halftime of the NFL team's Thanksgiving Day game against the Green Bay Packers.

The Detroit News says unconfirmed reports last week that Nickelback would perform in the game 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" in the show and says band members "always love playing in Detroit."

Nickelback's new album "Here and Now" debuts Nov. 21.

The Lions also say the National Anthem will be sung by Lauren Alaina, runner-up in the 10th season of TV's "American Idol."