Southern football is different. Football is all tied up in their cultural identity and approaches the level of a religion. Each school has their flag, their traditions and symbols and sacred songs. Every school has its heroes and mythology and memories of magical years. The pride is enormous. The emotional investment and identification surpasses anything we can imagine. We love our Ducks, but we do so with a trace of irony and self-mockery. In Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Alabama, the fortunes of the state's teams are essential dinner conversation 12 months a year. The Spring Game is played to a packed house.
There is nothing in our experience like War Eagle and the '57 National Champions. On the field, the 2010 Oregon Ducks are a fair challenge for the Auburn Tigers, but as fans we'll never equal their passion or their single-minded fervor. It's another mindset, another way of life.
I lived in Columbia, SC, for five years, working at the in the sports department of the newspaper there. Our office was just down the street from Williams-Brice, and those people packed it 80,000 strong even when they went winless (in 1999, I believe).
ReplyDeleteNothing else matters there. Then again, they often have very good weather all through the season, which encourages attendance. And as much as I like the atmosphere at Autzen, nothing beats Southern tailgating.
But I would also say that fans there don't seem to be as educated about the game as the Duck faithful I encounter, and they're certainly not as passionate in game as our fans when their team is on defense.
Paul--
ReplyDeleteThat's a great perspective. Every anecdote, every scholarly article I've read confirms what you relate, that there is fervor and devotion for Southern football that is truly distinct.
I wouldn't trade places with them. It never rains in Autzen Stadium, and if you read the comments here and on Moseley's blog or Addicted to Quack, one can readily see that Oregon fans are civil, well-rounded, and well-informed as any in the country.
Best Christmas wishes to you and go Ducks.
Dale