If I were to say “RGIII,” would you know who I was talking about? Maybe. How about Alfred Morris? No? Well the great thing about this time of the year is that you don’t need to be a Redskins fan—or even a big football fan at all—to make the most of the NFL season. For some girls, NFL Sunday is a day of non-stop action. One game is on the TV, another is on the computer, and Twitter is constantly refreshed for live updates from sports analysts and team insiders…Okay, maybe that’s just me. For everyone else, here’s my field-goal-attempt 3 ways to spice up the football season:
1. Go to a game!
Anyone who’s ever been to an NFL game can tell you that tailgating is one of the most fun social experiences that you can have. The entire parking lot instantly becomes one giant family all rooting for the same cause. The food, drinks, and music are endless, so even if you’re not a huge fan there are plenty of things to enjoy. Washington Redskins Standing Room Only tickets can be found in the $40-$60 range, and regular tickets are available starting around $65. I admit it won’t be the cheapest Sunday adventure, but it is definitely worth the memories. Plus the Metro Blue Line Largo Town Center stop drops you off just a short mile from the stadium. Invite some friends, make the boys carry a cooler, and make a whole day of it. Just don’t forget to bundle up!
2. Go to a sports bar!
What’s even easier than taking the Metro to the stadium? Walking to Rhino! DC is absolutely packed with great sports bars, and Rhino is no exception on NFL Sundays. Okay, I know what you’re thinking. You were just there the night before and things either A) got out of control, B) got way too crowded, or C) led to some sort of embarrassing event and you’re not sure if you want to head back in there any time soon. But trust me! The atmosphere of a sports bar during a game is so different than on a regular night out, you might even forget you’re in the same place. Grab a table, order some food and drinks, and watch a game. All eyes will be on the TVs, so there’s no pushing or shoving or squeezing to the bar, and you can actually keep a conversation going without having to yell over the music. $10 pitchers and 25 cent wings is a fun and inexpensive way to spend your Sunday, even if you don’t plan on paying much attention to the game. Plus it’s a quick walk back to campus if you start feeling guilty about upcoming homework for the week.
3. Host a small party!
So you went out Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, but believe it or not, football has the power to keep your body going for a casual Sunday Funday. Think of it as the $10 of gas you put in your car just to make it home when you’re running on empty. The perfect football party consists of your close friends, a few drinks, and some simple finger foods. Head to the grocery store early in the day and pick up some chips and dip, a veggie platter, or pizza bites. For those more experienced in the kitchen, put on your chef’s hat and make some seven-layer dip, pigs in a blanket, or homemade pizza. It’s your party, so have fun with the spread! And again, even if you’re not entirely into the game, it’ll be nice to have your friends over to extend the weekend as long as possible.
So some of you might be thinking: Jeez, that still sounds like a lot of football involved. For those of you who really have no interest in football shenanigans, there’s one way to turn the game into a game of your own—with roommate bets! Is it your turn to clean the dishes this week, but you’re not really feeling it? Bet your roommate that the Broncos will win the game. If they do, you’re off the hook! If they lose, you’ll do the dishes and her chore. All you have to do is check the score online later. There’s plenty of room for creativity on this one, so make it fun!
What are some of your favorite parts of football season? Have any funny tailgating stories or ever won a crazy bet? Let us know! And remember, don’t be afraid to let your inner tomboy out.