This past weekend Georgia and Florida met for their annual rivalry football game. The teams meet every year in Jacksonville as the game was previously called "The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party".
But since 2005 that name has lost its thunder due to both schools not wanting to recognize the rivalry in such a manner because of excessive drinking habits displayed by the fans.
The 2018 top ten matchup is the 96th time the two rivals have met. In an impressive 36 to 17 thumping of the Gators the Georgia faithful rallied around the team as they ran over to the stands after the game.
As I stood there and took it all in I asked myself a question that many Georgia fans probably wonder, why Jacksonville? Why do Georgia fans have to drive over 330 miles every year just to see their team play? Recently, I have been reading a lot of blogs online with Georgia fans complaining about how it is unfair that they have to travel all that way, and Gator fans do not.
Those who complain about the traveling have a point, but personally I love having the game played in Jacksonville. A home and home every year would be boring. Georgia-Florida is one the few neutral site games in all of College Football.
It is also a massive event that the city of Jacksonville hosts every year. It generates thousands of dollars in revenue for the city, and both schools as well.
It's not just an event, though; it's a vacation for fans.
UGA schedules their fall break around the game, and give the students the Friday off before the game. This day off of class has led to the start of the annual "Frat Beach" party that is held on St. Simons Island every year. Many other fans travel to Amelia Island, Tybee or Savannah to enjoy themselves for the weekend.
Georgia fans may not like the 6 hour trek compared to the Gators one hour trip, but the stadium is split 50/50. It may seem like an advantage for the Gators, but in recent years since the Smart Era has started UGA fans are known to travel well.
Lastly, I love the history that has happened for Georgia Football in Jacksonville. From Buck Belue's pass to Lindsay Scott in 1980 to 2007 when the entire team rushed the field after a Knowshon Moreno touchdown. That field has seen some of the most glorious highlights in Georgia football history.
Everyone has their own opinion about Jacksonville, but I love the tradition it provides UGA fans the opportunity to participate in every year. It's also one of the greatest feelings in the world to witness half a stadium full of sad and disappointed Gator fans empty Everbank Field.
