I didn't grow up much of a college football fan. My Dad and my Grandpa took me to a number of Minnesota Golden Gopher games when I was a kid, but, at that age, I was more into watching the NFL on Sundays. Shortly after I arrived in college, it all started to click. The families of fans, the band, the mascots, the tradition. Now, I love college football and it consumes many of my Saturday's in the autumn. Dressing the part as a college football fan, however, is quite different from looking good at an NFL game.
College football teams offer jerseys for sale, but I wouldn't really recommend picking one up. The exception to this rule of thumb would be the University of Michigan - where top players always wear the number 1. Most teams, however, offer the number of a handful of players expected to be the team's stars that upcoming season. If your favorite player wears the number 1 - consider picking up the jersey if it is available - but other than that, most jerseys will look dated after a couple of years ("number 19? Who is that? We haven't had anyone wear the number 19 for three years"). If you're willing to spend 50-60 bucks every year or two on a new jersey, this might be for you, but I would instead recommend picking up a hooded sweatshirt with your favorite schools logo. Hoodies can be worn on more occasions and perfectly compliment a crisp Saturday afternoon.
If you're a hardcore college football fan and want to opt for a jersey, consider sporting a throwback jersey instead of a jersey for a current player. These jerseys will look "fresher" longer and you can often find sewn on versions that can live through the wash (important if you are in any danger of having beer spilled on your duds).
College football has a long and healthy tradition of tailgating. If you plan on grilling before the game, we recommend layering. Wear your hat and t-shirt, but be sure to grab your sweatshirt. Once the afternoon or evening sun dips below the edge of most stadiums, you'll want to be prepared - either for yourself, or to lend to that cute recent alumni you just met.
Avoid: Overly baggy t-shirts given away by the university - instead buy one that fits your shape a little bit better.
Quick Tip: As a general rule, crushed hats look far better than any other kind of hats at college games. The casual look just fits a little better in most college football stadiums.
