Three weeks ago, I went to my first Samford football game since freshman year. I have always considered myself a fan and an advocate for not only Samford but also FCS football as a whole.
But I stopped going to games in October of my freshman year. I complained about the heat blaring down, and I spent more time on my phone watching the SEC than I did watching the game in front of me. It simply occurred to me that I would rather be inside watching four games at once than sit in the blistering heat.
That’s why I was so surprised when I went to the Thursday night game against West Georgia to open the season. I had a fantastic time. I came from a busy tailgate to a full stadium. The new bridge overlooking Bobby Bowden Field created an amazing social setting. The temperature was perfect. Most importantly, I wasn’t distracted thinking about the college football I was missing.
That’s when the question started nagging at me: Why doesn’t Samford play all its games on Thursdays?
Imagine if Thursday night football became a staple here. The Samford community could gather on the Quad for a tailgate dinner, then, as the sun sets, fill Pete Hanna Stadium with students. It’s not unusual for students to show out on weekday games. Basketball last season proved that, consistently filling the student section no matter the night.
The idea could even reach beyond campus. Nationally, fans are starved for college football on Thursdays. With limited options, some might stumble upon Samford football. Conferences like the MAC have practiced a similar strategy, and it has successfully become part of college football’s culture.
Samford could make Thursday nights its own.
Sports Editor
