COLUMBIA, S.C. — Before the Gamecocks took the field, fans tailgated in areas around Williams Brice Stadium ahead of the Old Dominion match.
As far as your eyes could see, the streets were covered in garnet and black, decorated with Gamecock gear.
Many called it a chance to continue traditions, including a group of students, Jack, Augusta, Josh and David, all juniors, who have spent the last three years tailgating together before every game.
"It’s the 3rd year now, yeah, it's pretty traditional; it’s our third year being together," David said. "So, it’s really nice to be back at it again."
Every tent on the lawn told a different story of what it means to be a Gamecock, a chance to spend more time with family.
That’s one thing Taylor, who is visiting her family, said she is grateful to do now before deploying to Texas as part of the Army National Guard.
“This is the only tailgate I get to come to this year," she said.
"I leave in three weeks so I get to spend it with them, so I’m excited, other games I'll have to facetime them.”
The same applies to University of South Carolina alums who visit their old stomping grounds, reliving old memories and making new ones.
“I'm excited for our football team as a whole, we've tons of talent, a hug fan of Shane beamer, so it's nice to be back after moving from Charleston to see some more college football," said USC alumni Nike Nishnic.
The atmosphere even encourages the next generations of Gamecocks to do anything they put their mind to.
“when i come here i want go to law school, i want to be on the soccer team, oh i want to play football here too.”
Next week, on Sept. 7, the Gamecocks will face the Kentucky Wildcats.
Kick-off is at 3:30 p.m.