Before even having attended LSU, I described it as one of my top 5 visits along the college football tour. I just knew – and I wasn’t disappointed. Few places blend hospitality and hostility so well – the fans are most welcoming and the stadium is most intimidating. This is especially true on a Saturday night.
Few schools can match the tailgating prowess that is LSU. Wide swaths of tents shaded by sprawling oak trees set a scene that is unmatched. The southern fare only sets the bar higher with traditional gumbo, crawfish, and dirty rice. Acres upon acres of various tailgating appear like pop up restaurants with food and drinks that are Food Network worthy. Folks start prepping tailgates the day before to ensure a high quality experience.
Stroll around campus and see colorfully and creatively decked out fans and inflatable or stuffed tigers of all types and sizes. The live mascot, Mike the Tiger can be visited at the Tiger Habitat, where throngs of purple and gold clad onlookers gawk at the LSU icon.
The crowds swell to extremes as they line up and wait for the Tiger Walk. Buses carrying the LSU team unload as the players strut through screaming excitement. The Tiger Marching Band blasts the first few notes of the fight song sending shock waves of cheers through the Tiger faithful. This pregame tradition shows off the intense passion of these fans.
Appropriately nicknamed Death Valley, Tiger Stadium is especially intimidating on a Saturday night. The six-digit attendance creates decibel levels that leave a noticeable ear ringing. The classic home white uniforms, Golden Girl danceline, and Tiger chants in unison add a unique flair to an already tradition-rich venue. LSU leaves an indelible impression that proves that nothing can match the atmosphere of college football.
Excellent write up and I hate I missed that game! I am a Tiger fan like my dad but the rest of my family are either Ole Miss, MS State or FL Gator fans. It makes for some fun family experiences.
Good luck and have a blast on the rest of your journey.