I don't follow football. I couldn't tell you the name of a single player on my university's team, but boy, do I love football season. For me, it's not just about the stats and winning the championship. I go for the food, fun, and friends (but, mostly the food). Even if the sport isn't your thing, I'm giving you 11 reasons to get stoked for the frenzy of football season.
1. Everyone is hyped.
You don't have to follow the game to share in the excitement. Yell, cheer, scream, shout, high-five and hug your neighbors, even if you have no idea who they are. There's nothing like standing under the Friday night lights with an adrenaline rush from the crowd.
2. Tailgating
Corn hole, music and ice cold beer-- what more could you possibly need? Grab those folding chairs and light the grill because it's a parking lot party!
3. Kettle corn
Long lines, but trust me, it's worth the wait.
4. Being cozy
Who doesn't love hoodies or getting wrapped up in a big fuzzy blanket? They come in handy for chilly nights in the bleachers or for watching it on TV at home.
5. Events leading up to the big game
Bonfires, picnics, parades, fundraisers- you name it, no matter what level of football, there's something going on to celebrate. Whether it's a party at your place or a night out at the backer bar, there's always a reason to get together.
6. Marching Band
Call us geeks, but we know how to party. Plus, the exhausting amount of work it takes to put together a killer half time show will pay off in the end.
7. Having a sense of pride
It's a community thing-- no matter if it's your school, university, or city in general, you have a team to be proud of. Even if they lose (I'm looking at you, Cleveland), hey, at least they put up a fight... hopefully.
8. You always have something to wear.
Especially in college, you're bound to have some tees sporting your team's name. Throw one on and you're set for the day (or two).
9. Everyone comes together.
Strangers who would flip each other off over a parking spot are now fist bumping over a touchdown. People recognize that name on your shirt and immediately want to make small talk-- nothing unites people quite like a rivalry game.
10. Everything has a theme.
Step into your local grocery store and you'll find a table featured with all sorts of shirts, hats, mugs, lanyards, bumper stickers, cookies, cakes, etc.
11. Football Pants
Yes, man booty is important, too. I'm personally biased towards baseball pants, but shiny spandex doesn't hurt-- and neither does the whole team standing in a line in front of the bleachers. Enjoy the view, ladies (and gents, too- if you're into that sort of thing)!