My 2 cents on yesterday's gameday experience (long)

I was prepared to have young and old WVU fans dropping F-bombs at my family and maybe even get assaulted based on the rumors and reference from others (including family who unfortunately live in WV). However, the tailgating experience was very pleasant. I had a parking pass in the blue lot, and received help in getting a "good" spot to get out easily from some locals. Walked around stadium, and down to the student rec center without incident.

A couple of students even helped us out by explaining the PRT system so we could go to the "downtown" campus to get some good pictures ( much more scenic/historic campus for those who did not make it down there). The remainder of the tailgating was very cordial and very SEC like (albeit smaller for the most part, and yes I've been to ALL the SEC stadiums).

I was even caught off guard when I went to buy some food with my kids, when a younger alumnus (24-26 year old range) would not let me pay for my food, and picked up the tab. Said he appreciated my bringing the kids to the game, and can't wait until he has his own and can do the same. I guess he was kind of paying it forward.

After kickoff, it got ugly!! I sat in the lower bowl of a WVU section, and was totally shocked. The pure hatred and mean spirited taunts at players and fans was brutal. I've let out some "kick their arse" chants in my day, but never have I seen the people yelling for specific physical harm to anyone so much. "f$@!ing hurt him", "I hope he dies", "pussy players", all being yelled by anyone from 16-66!! Simply amazing.

I almost got into a fight when one of our first injuries occurred and some local started into the BS about trying to slow the tempo. I saw the injury, and i guarantee you that I would not be walking for a week if that happened to me. I called the guy out to have a little respect, and he started to get in my face with his crap even more. Some other WVU fans pulled him off me and actually backed me and told me that the guy is known in the section as being an a-hole.

Dude didn't say much more during the game after some more around us told him to STFU (OK, one bright spot duringgame). But when the boo's came when other players got hurt, it just showed the class level they are on. My interpretation is that they are like that slightly awkward kid who always tried so hard to fit in, and had something to prove. Actually had the goods to keep up, but did not know how to play the game, so he was left hanging with the non-descript crowd. Then of course all this just drives the hatred toward everyone

After game, I experienced the worst gameday traffic ever. Took us 2 hours to get to Fairmont 15 miles away. Contraflow, traffic cops, extended traffic signals? I guess they have never heard of them.

Anyway, sorry for the length of thus post, but got back this afternoon (luckily only 4.5 hour drive back to Cincinnati), and had to get this off my chest. I'd go back if I had the chance, but knowing what I know now, would do thing differently to enjoy the game.

Geaux Tigers!!!