It's that time of year again, when the stadiums open up and our favorite teams kick-off to the best season yet. The weather gets cooler and the fans get crazier. We all wait around to see what this year brings and we all have our reasons for why it's the best time of year. To me, there are many reasons why college football season is the best, including these:
1. Traditions
One of the greatest parts about college football is the traditions involved with each team. Whether it's the history behind the mascot, a performance by the band or a significant part of the stadium, every team has their own unique tradition. When the season rolls around, it's time to celebrate those traditions and revel in the history behind them.
2. Rivalries
These rivalries run as deep as some family roots. Some are friendly, some are not so friendly. Just think about the Iron Bowl, The World's Largest Cocktail Party and the Sunshine Showdown to name a few. Win or lose, it's always a fun time to play your biggest team's rival.
3. Condensed Seasons
Because it doesn't last much longer than twelve weeks, this is a special time of year. It's a non-stop season full of some of the most anticipated games of the year. This is the time of year that everyone looks forward to food, fun and fellowship. Oh yeah, and the football games.
4. Tailgating
What better way to kick off a football game than to play cornhole, eat some good tailgating snacks and sit around with all your friends? If you thought the football game was the real competition, just wait until everyone brings out the tailgating games.
5. Comraderie
From the tailgates, to the stadiums and back out again, you can bet you'll be friends with 90,000 other fans. These are your people, even if you don't know them. You all show up for the same thing and you all show out wearing the same colors. They may even buy you a drink or two if you're lucky.
6. Food
Three words: Buffalo Chicken Dip. My all-time favorite snack, and basically the official sponsor of all things football. Whether it's a friend or your favorite aunt who bakes it, you can guarantee it'll be the first thing everyone reaches for. But let's not forget about the Chick-fil-A kiosks inside the stadiums. Can we just agree that they're the real MVP's?
7. The Energy
On any given Saturday, you can feel the hum in the air and the vibrations from the stadium. It's almost like a religious experience, and it is super personal to everyone there. Even if you're watching from your TV at home, there is nothing like a college football game.
