Michigan fans prepare for party behind enemy lines

A coworker of mine just sent this to me via email. Her husband is a big Michigan fan, and they’ll both be at the game. The email is from a Michigan Alumni group that will be attending the Michigan-Ohio State game. Apparently they’ve been to one of these games before.

“…We know that it can be uncomfortable being in an opposing team’s environment, especially when the stakes are so high. We would like to offer a few suggestions in order to help you stay safe and have a positive experience this weekend:

–Try carpooling to the game; if possible, drive a car with non- Michigan license plates.
–Keep your Michigan gear to a minimum, or wait until you are inside the stadium to display it.
–Stay with a group.
–Know and obey the laws regarding alcohol use.
–If you are of legal age to drink, use alcohol in moderation. Stay in the blue.
–Stay low-key; don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
–If verbally harrassed by opposing fans, don’t take the bait.
–Avoid High Street in Columbus.

If at any time you feel unsafe, you should call 9-1-1 for assistance. U-M campus police also will be available in Columbus to support our fans…”

Avoid High Street? Don’t drive a car with Michigan plates? Wow, those OSU fans must be a rowdy bunch. It’s like you have to be a double agent just to go to the game.

I know rivalries in the SEC are pretty serious, but I don’t think any of them are as mad as this Mid West match up. While I can’t wait to see the game, I’d rather watch it from the comfort of some sleazy dive bar than be anywhere within 4 miles of OSU’s stadium. Especially if OSU loses.

Hell, I’m going to be disappointed if the game DOESN’T result in a brawl. I mean, what are rivalries for if not to beat up someone wearing a different color jersey?