Football Fix?

Earlier this month, Marc and I went to an Air Force game. Since we moved here, several people mentioned the fact that we HAD to go to at least one game. So, what better game to attend than a rivalry? Right? As soon as the Navy tickets went on sale, we were on the computer putting in our credit card number. We had great seats and were ready to see some football!

Note: I'm from the south. Born and raised. My dad played the Auburn fight song every fall Saturday morning on an old 45 record player. We'd sing "Ever to conquer, never to yield" over the scratching sound coming through the speaker of that square box...then go toss the Nerf football in the front yard while wearing our orange and blue. I was told when I was 18 that I could go to Auburn...or I could pay for it myself. I usually gain at least 5 pounds from tailgating, and I have gone hoarse from yelling with 87,451 fans. And yes, I have been known to even crouch behind furniture during a crucial play because I just can't stand to watch. I'm a college football fan...OK?

So, I think my expectations for this college football game may have been a little high due to the fact it is considered a rivalry. But before I go any further, let me say, I enjoyed it. I really did. There were some really cool moments, but... people, this is a rivalry! Air Force has been beaten the last 7 years by Navy. You would think there would be some hype, smack talking, one side would be wearing classy orange Polos with the little, blue horse...and other side mullets. But I didn't see any of that! How am I suppose to know that this is a rivalry?

With that being said, we tried to get our southern football fix here in the west, however... it just wasn't the same. Disclaimer: My perspective is not meant to offend these men who love their country and will later serve it proudly. It just simply shows my obsession in a different light, and the fact that I'm spoiled rotten.

Here we are "tailgating"...yes...we stopped at Subway, but we did have candy corn and peanuts. Very lame compared to Funchess Hall.

The pre-game was impressive. Here, all the cadets take the field with their unit. They march in and then once dismissed, they simultaneously run to the stands to claim their seat for the game. It was fun to watch them go a little crazy after such a disciplined event.

Here comes the most awesome fly over I've ever seen! See "Fly Over" post for the video. It was by far my favorite part of the day!

The band taking the field playing "The Air Force Song" while the crowd sang (well...at least the lyrics they knew i.e. "wild blue yonder" and "nothing can stop the USAF". Just a pet peeve...learn your team's fight song. That goes for you too, Cam! Here come the Falcons...through the inflatable helmet? Where was the smoke? And the video montage? Just asking...that's all.

The team sported new uniforms for this game. I heard a guy behind me say that in all his years of attending AF games, this was the first time he'd seen new uniforms. They were sharp looking and instead of having their last name on the back...they read either "Freedom" or "Service". A nice touch!

Like I said, Air Force had not beaten Navy in 7 years, but came out victorious this year! It was a good game to watch...and once the clock ticked down to :00...the cadets stormed the field...while the song "At Last" by Etta James played over the loud speaker. No...I am not kidding. A real "moment" crusher-- you just beat a HUGE rivalry for the first time in 7 years...you are not at your wedding reception having your first dance as husband and wife! C'mon AF...and may I speak to your stadium "music man"?
Final Score:
Air Force - 14

Navy- 6

A beautiful day to watch a football game...even if it wasn't quite what I thought it would be...to each his own...even if I am a bit (OK--a lot) over the top. War Eagle from Colorado Springs!