Game day is right around the corner, and Happy Valley is about to get a whole lot happier when Rutgers rolls in this coming weekend.
We may get heckled by other schools – especially our “rival” teams – and hell, let’s be honest, we likely do some heckling ourselves. But, believe it or not, we are more than happy to welcome Rutgers into Beaver Stadium this weekend.
Sure, the Scarlet Knights seem to have something harsh against us Nittany Lions, but here are seven reasons why we will meet their hateful stares with welcoming smiles this Saturday.
1. We like to spread the happy.
We’re called Happy Valley for a reason. There is constantly an aura that floats every day in State College, but on gameday, it is something extra special. Regardless of what fans are out on the street, we welcome them to our home with open arms and pitchers of beer. We will be happy even if we have to stand in line next to a grumpy Rutgers fan at the Waffle Shop Sunday morning as they mourn the loss of Saturday’s game.
2. Tailgating is better in twos.
Tailgating. One thing is for sure – Penn State knows how to tailgate. And although I am not from New Jersey, I am sure Rutgers does too. Put the two together, and we can have a great time. We might as well all share our buffalo chicken dip and beer regardless of what team’s name is across our chest.
3. We welcome new visitors.
Considering Penn State has many Jersey natives, we are bound to have many Jersey visitors that will likely be rooting for the other team. Hopefully most of them will be wearing blue and white, but regardless, nothing is better than welcoming the Dirty Jerz to Central Pennsylvania.
4. We respect the game.
I know personally I love some healthy competition, and I am sure our man Franklin feels the same way. So when it comes down to it, let’s play some football! We all are anxious to see what goes down on the field, so let’s quit the trash talking for one second and let the boys determine who really deserves to win this game.
5. We like to show our pride.
In Happy Valley, we bleed blue and white, and you’re going to see the classic color combination dominate Beaver Stadium on Saturday in the very first Penn State Stripe Out. Although our overwhelming rainbow of color will most likely rule out the slight chance of red in the stadium, all you Rutgers fans will get to witness a brand new experience for Penn State. Aren’t you excited?
6. We hang with the Big Ten.
Even though we are both Big Ten schools, Rutgers is still new to things. We couldn’t be more honored to show them what a Big Ten match is all about.
7. Night games rule all.
There is nothing like a night game in Beaver Stadium. To have one of the rowdiest Big Ten schools (we all know Jersey knows how to get loud) come visit us is going to be something special.
So that being said, let’s keep it classy Penn State and show Rutgers what a game of football is all about.
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