As homecoming quickly approaches, reality sets in. Gopher football is back and better than ever. Here are a few of the many reasons why Gopher Game Day is the greatest in college football.

Pre-Game Activities

On Gopher Game Days, the entire campus at the U is bustling. Whether kick-off is at 11 a.m. or 7 p.m., throughout the entire day you will be able to find Gopher fans young and old getting ready for the game. College students can be found at Floco Courtyard, tailgating, or at one of the various fraternities on University Avenue. Wherever your chosen location for the day, you will find people laughing, singing, dancing, playing corn hole, or just hanging out with friends and family.

TCF Bank Stadium

If you’re lucky enough to be able to sit in the student section, the views from TCF Bank stadium are breathtaking. Not only can one get an impeccable view of the field and the surrounding areas, one can also catch a glimpse at the beautiful city of Minneapolis. Whether the game is in the afternoon or under the lights, the skyline in the backdrop shines brightly next to the Golden Gophers' big screen.

Goldy the Gopher

You simply cannot beat the University of Minnesota’s mascot, Goldy the Gopher. Present at each and every sporting event, big or small, Goldy is there to amp up the crowd. During football season, Goldy even gets a workout in on the field, as he pumps out push-ups for every Gopher touchdown or field goal. Eager fans await Goldy’s famous head spin and Superman stunts. Hands down, Goldy is the best, but it’s also pretty great because he’s not a Badger.

Brick by Brick Videos

Before and during the games, Brick by Brick videos and Gopher Digital Productions are shown on the big screens. These often depict the Gopher teams and their process of preparation for the games. I’ll let the video speak for itself, but you’re guaranteed to get the chills if you’re a Gopher fan.

http://www.snappytv.com/tc/775847

On Screen

Speaking of the big screen, the Gophers have a flawless selection of on-screen displays for fans on Game Day. Whether it’s the famous field goal distraction, the encouragement for doing “the Gopher” after the third quarter, or our own reenactment of the Circle of Life, the Gopher’s know how to handle the big screen.

Student Section

The Gopher Student Section is one of the most dedicated in all of college football. With temperatures ranging from 90 degrees to -30, there is always a rowdy student section at Gopher games. Each of the proud Gophers are decked out in maroon and gold, most wearing “Gopher-alls,” while loudly cheering on the Gopher athletes. Whether the cheer is Ski-U-Mah or the Minnesota Rouser, the fan section will be reciting along. By the end of each game, the student section will clear out with a “Who hates Iowa? We hate Iowa!” chant, even if the Gophers are playing someone else.