College Football Gamedays: Southern Miss

Mississippi fans approach college football games with a passion bordering on religious fervor. Saturdays in the South are often planned around football schedules from September to November’s end. Teams may win or lose games, but Mississippi always triumphs at tailgating.

The home games for SEC football teams often achieve national attention, both for the zeal of the fans and for the size of their pregame soirees. But when it comes to the action both on and off the field, Mississippi colleges and universities are a great place to enjoy the fierce rivalries on the gridiron, and the fun and inviting tailgating experience.

Visitors to any of our universities will want to experience Mississippi’s distinctive tailgating styles. Here are a few tips to help you tackle a football weekend in Mississippi:

Southern Miss | Hattiesburg

Tailgating Style

Spirit Park is the center of the action on campus. Largely populated by Southern Miss students, Spirit Park features a free pregame concert prior to each home game. Fans and family can enjoy a more relaxed setting near The District, the All-American Rose Garden or the Dome.

The Chant

Do the letters SMTTT mean anything to you? “Southern Miss To The Top” is the battle cry of the Golden Eagles. Be prepared to see “SMTTT” scrawled on everything from koozies to onesies on game day. Remember, when someone yells, “Southern Miss,” the only acceptable response is, “To The Top!”

What to Wear

Dressy casual is the standard on gameday, and always in school colors. So when the time comes to cheer the Golden Eagles, black and gold are the colors of choice for your team.

Off-Campus Place to Be

For taste of Hattiesburg on gameday, check out Glory Bound Gyro directly across from the stadium. For Downtown options, Southern Prohibition Brewing serves “Gold Rush,” an American Lager created in partnership with the University, while the Keg & Barrel features a selection of 120-plus beers. For a meal try Crescent City Grill, Ed’s Burger Joint, El Rayo, and the Mahogany Bar on Hardy Street.