Sunday Football

Another autumn Sunday morning in Baltimore is upon us. The air is crisp, the sky is clear and the birds are chirping. But they all pale in comparison to what happens when the clock strikes one o'clock. That's when millions of football fans around the country will be glued to their televisions as they watch their favorite NFL tream go to work.

Football is America is truly an event. Anyone who has been to an NFL game knows exactly what I'm talking about. Fans will stake their spots out on the parking lot as early as 5 am. Before long, the whole area outside the stadium turns into a huge party. A typical breakfast here consists of a bratwurst and beer. How can you not love that!

I always love walking around and meeting the fans. As rowdy as they are, most of them are very welcoming. I've had people almost force me to sample their marinated wild duck or beer soaked brats. I'm always happy to oblige. It truly is a festive atmosphere and I always have a great time.

As one o'clock approaches, and the fans have completed their "warm-ups", they head towards the stadium. Of course, going through security creates a human traffic jam. I always get a kick out of the comments that come from frustrated fans as they wait to be frisked. Most of the derogatory jabs are directed at the opposing team's quarterback (If the Colts or Steelers are in town, the insults are priceless!).

Once the game begins, everyone suddenly becomes a football expert. If a play goes wrong, fans will immediately tell you why it didn't work. It's like be surrounded by a bunch of John Madden clones. The only thing missing is the virtual chalkboard.

If a referee makes a bad call, he is immediately greeted by a chorus of "Bullshit!" I have to admit, when coming from 60,000 people, the word does have a melodic quality! And by default, the poor ref instantly falls into the same category as Ben Rothlesberger (Baltimore fans affectionately refer to Big Big as "Douchebag").

Here's something that always amazes me. When a player makes a bonehead play, why does he always act like he's hurt? The dejected player will lay on the field (ultimately forcing a commercial break) appearing to be writhing in excruciating pain. Then, when he thinks that people have taken the opportunity to grab a beer or a bathroom break, he'll pop up like a kid on Christmas morning. Amazing! I think my brother-in-law puts this in perspective. When a player is rolling on the field in pain, he'll say, "Ahh, he ain't hurt! He's just disappointed!"

When the game is over, as a fan, you either feel totally euphoric (the alcohol could have a factor in this) or totally depresssed. If your team wins, you feel like you just got a big raise at work. If your team loses, you feel like you're from Detroit. It's really interesting on how seriously some fans take the game.

Well, enough talk. Kick off is in less than two hours. Time to put my game face on!

KW