PULLMAN, Wash. — The college football season opener for the Washington State University Cougars took place on Saturday, August 31 against Portland State University and thousands of fans flocked to Martin Stadium to watch the game.
"Go Cougs!" shouted a WSU fan.
Fans gathered in the small town of Pullman to celebrate the beginning of college football season and all the traditions that come with it.
"We wanted to kind of recreate and reestablish tailgating season," said Matt Miera, a dedicated WSU fan.
Meira set up a tailgate line across the street from the stadium on Thursday and auctioned his spot off.
"We had a guy that contributed a large amount of money to Cougar Athletic Club," said Miera. "We got some game tickets up at the club level, and they get a trailer for the weekend."
Miera says during the season opener, energy is high and the community comes together even in the midst of an unprecedented season.
"There's that stereotype that tailgating is just for football. Honestly, it's more than that," said Miera.
WSU students and alumni gathered on Saturday to enjoy food, drinks, college nostalgia and a sea of crimson and gray.
This season marks the first with only Washington State and Oregon State left in the Pac-12 conference, but that doesn't change the way most fans celebrate.
"We're here to see the Cougs," said Miera.
Miera says his support won't waver and calls for everyone to support the community no matter where they may live.
"Come to Pullman as much you can," said Miera. "If you're not in Pullman, find a Coug-run business in Seattle."