The 2026 college football season? Wild, honestly. There were moments that stuck with me, a few twists I didn’t see coming, and a handful of stories I’ll probably be telling for years.
Some days, it was all about running into celebrities at games. Other times, it was the food, the travel chaos, or just soaking up the local color. I hit up 15 different games, each with its own flavor—sometimes literally.
Celebrity Sightings and Memorable Moments
This season, celebrities seemed to pop up everywhere. Spotting Matthew McConaughey at a Texas game is like playing “Where’s Waldo?” He was charming, stopping for photos and just blending right into the crowd, but with a little more swagger.
Lee Corso’s last “College GameDay” was another highlight. Watching him enjoy a hotdog—with a knife and fork, no less—felt like witnessing the end of an era, but with a smile.
Matthew McConaughey at Texas Games
McConaughey on the sideline before a Texas game? Not exactly a rare sight. I actually brushed past him in a hallway once, while he was posing for a picture with a young fan on his birthday.
Little moments like that just amp up the buzz on game day. It’s hard not to feel the excitement when you see a movie star cheering for your team.
Lee Corso’s Final “College GameDay” Appearance
Corso’s final “College GameDay” before Texas-Ohio State had everyone a bit nostalgic. After the show, he wandered into the press box and, in classic Corso fashion, ate a hotdog with a knife and fork.
It was quirky, a little funny, and somehow the perfect send-off for a college football legend.
Travel Adventures and Misadventures
Traveling for college football is never boring. You get the good, the bad, and the just plain weird.
This year, I had everything from smashing a cockroach in an SEC press box to getting locked out of my hotel room in Atlanta. It’s all part of the adventure, right?
The Cockroach Incident
One day in an SEC press box, a cockroach dropped from the ceiling right onto my workstation. The thing was fast—almost too fast for my comfort.
I squashed it before it could make a run for the field. Not exactly the pregame ritual I’d planned, but hey, it’s a story.
Hotel Room Troubles in Atlanta
After the SEC championship, I found myself sealed out of my own hotel room. The door just wouldn’t budge.
Thankfully, a maintenance guy—clearly off the clock—showed up with a crowbar and saved the day. Sometimes, you just need a little help to keep moving.
Game Day Atmosphere and Tailgating
There’s nothing quite like the energy at a college football game. Fans go all out, and every school puts its own spin on things.
Kyle Field was electric, and Ohio State tailgaters brought their A-game with morning beer die. It’s passion, creativity, and a little bit of chaos—just how it should be.
Kyle Field’s Electric Atmosphere
Kyle Field really is something else. On a sunny December morning, with “POWER” blasting and flames shooting up from the end zone, the Aggies made their entrance and the whole stadium shook.
It felt like the kind of scene you’d dream up, but it was all real. Hard to top, honestly.
Pregame Beer Die at Ohio State
Before Texas played Ohio State, I crawled through Columbus traffic and watched students play beer die on their lawns. It was the first Saturday of the season, and the mood was just right.
Seeing those games—dice flying, cups splashing—made me oddly optimistic. Maybe it’s silly, but it felt like a little slice of hope.
Scenic Detours and Local Cuisine
One of the perks of this gig? Exploring new places and finding great food. I always try to sneak in a hike or a walk before the games, just to see a different side of the city.
And let’s be honest, the local eats are half the fun.
Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail
The day before a game, I’ll usually find a trail to clear my head. The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, just north of Tupelo, Mississippi, is a personal favorite.
I managed more than three miles there in September, the day before LSU-Ole Miss. It’s peaceful, and a nice break from the chaos.
Local Eateries and Live Music
Halloween in Austin meant enchiladas at El Alma, just south of the Colorado River, and a beer at Frazier’s Long & Low. Can’t beat that combination.
And in Tupelo, the Blue Canoe is a must. Burger, brew, and live music—plus, I caught Virginia fans storming the field on TV after an overtime win. That’s a night.
Press Box Meals and Game Day Feasts
Press box meals are a big part of the experience. Georgia, in particular, went all out with roasted turkey, the best stuffing I’ve had, mac and cheese, and green beans.
I skipped the Hawaiian roll—tough call—but I caved for a slice of pumpkin pie. No regrets there.
Georgia’s Pregame Feast
Before a mid-November game against Texas, Georgia served up a pregame meal that could’ve been the main event. Turkey, stuffing, mac and cheese, green beans—the works.
Honestly, the food might’ve been the highlight that day. Sometimes, it’s the little things that stick with you.
Conclusion
The 2026 college football season really was a wild ride. There were moments that stuck with you—some good, some not so much.
From spotting celebrities in the stands to the occasional travel disaster, it just felt like anything could happen. Game days buzzed with energy, and honestly, the food was better than you’d expect in most places.
If you’re curious about the finer details or just want to relive a few highlights, check out USA Today.
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