Dating a football player can be a little challenging sometimes. It is hard to balance social life and the football life. It is hard trying to work on school work, and worry about your boyfriend playing every Friday night. Wondering if he will come home with bruises or if he will be too hurt to do anything. After being a football girlfriend for more than a year now, I think I know the basics of dating a football player.

1. His practice schedule will be confusing -- Those plans you made with him on Saturday morning? He was supposed to call you? Ha. Nope. Doubles come first!

2. Time is precious -- You might be able to see him for a couple hours a week, maybe a month, but those times are precious.

3. Support is key -- It may be hard to get to his games. College football goes around the state (I know from experience) but it does not stop you from texting him before and after games. Posting on social media. Everything. He needs the support from you.

4. Show interest -- Now this one may be hard for you depending on the type of person you are, but show interest in football. Learn what is what. (Make sure you know more than a touchdown.) Also know if he plays offense or defense before you scream the wrong side during the game. Embarrassing!

5. Offering help -- Offer as much as help as you can give. Whether it be small gestures, like laundry, homework, talking. Or massaging him. But be prepared for the shirt coming off, the groaning every time you touch a bad spot, and many bruises.

6. Nap time -- Now this is going to suck because of schedules. Yours always clashing with his. You having homework, and him not. But he needs rest. Always. But in the end, you'll make time for him.

7. Be his number one fan -- This goes along with support, but being his number one fan will win his heart more and more. Plus, if you go to a game to surprise them, and they spot you out in the stand, they will try their hardest to show off, and bust their butts off.

In the end, it is hard. But if he did not give up on his favorite sport, he will not give up on his favorite person. Once it is over, it is the best feeling having him back, until he drags you along to the gym to watch him lift. (Been there, done that.) But in the end, he will thank you and love you more for supporting him over the years and just holding his hand through the toughest times of your relationship.