As college football season approaches once again (just a few months out!), I’ve found myself reflecting on one of my favorite memories from last fall: the SEC showdown between Louisiana State University and University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida. This game was what my boyfriend, Sawyer, and I had looked forward to, as we usually watch college football on the big screen rather than attending. Our friend Ryan, a diehard LSU Tigers fan, joined us, too, determined to cheer on his favorite team even if it meant doing so in the Gators’ stadium.

The four of us (our friend Peyton included) hit the road from Sarasota early Saturday morning, aiming to make it to Gainesville in time to soak up the pre-game atmosphere. After a smooth three-hour drive, we arrived around 2 p.m., checked into our Airbnb and got ourselves ready for the evening.

Downtown Gainesville was buzzing with a sea of purple, gold, orange and blue as fans from both sides flooded the streets. This was a huge rivalry for both teams. The weather couldn’t have been better as it was a perfect 75 degrees, the kind of crisp, sunny November afternoon that makes you enjoy college football even more (especially down South).

After arriving on the UF campus in full LSU Tigers gear, we immediately stood out. As we made our way toward the stadium, we could feel eyes on us and multiple stares from UF students not pleased to see our chosen colors. Ryan had come fully prepared, bringing enough LSU gear to outfit Peyton, Sawyer and myself. We knew we couldn’t let him go into The Swamp alone, so for the night, we became diehard LSU fans.

We made it to our seats, front row behind the end zone for a clear view of the game. We were so close we got to see the Tigers storm out of the locker room as well as be near the band (ultimately amplifying all the vibes). Luckily, we had fellow LSU fans near us who were just as proud to be there as we were.

As the game went on, the intensity kept building due to the close score. Both teams tried to get first downs and make their way down the field to score for a tight battle. The energy inside

The Swamp was unreal, the kind of atmosphere that makes college football so special. We had always heard rumors The Swamp was one of the loudest stadiums with the loudest fans. After experiencing it firsthand, I can confidently say: The rumors are true.The Swamp has its own tradition during the third quarter where they play Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down” with a light show. Gators fans sing the popular anthem word for word. I will admit it was pretty neat, but, then again, I enjoy most college football traditions.

LSU ended up not winning, which led to an awkward walk out of the stadium. We were upset they didn’t pull off a win for Ryan, who believes when he attends the game in person, they lose. He had seen Alabama and LSU at Tigers stadium a week before and they also lost. I, however, had a great day cheering on the Tigers and checking out Gainesville (even if I am a Thundering Herd and Buckeyes fan). I hope to attend more college football games this fall and just might head back to Gainesville for another rivalry game.

— Megan Gragg, account executive