First, I find it important to remind you that UMass announced its elevation of the football team to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and will become a member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC), starting as a transitional member next fall. Home games will be played at Gillette Stadium (you know, that place where the Patriots play).

As for this upcoming season, one game against the University of New Hampshire will be played at Gillette – a game widely known as the Colonial Clash. For the freshmen who are reading this and unaware of what the Colonial Clash actually is, it’s time you learned. UMass and UNH have had a rivalry since 1952. It is one of the biggest events for UMass students, and the turnout at these games is ridiculous. Tickets for the Colonial Clash, occurring on October 22, are on sale now at Ticketmaster.

One of the best aspects of the UMass football experience happens before the kickoff. Tailgating is a major part of the football season. Thousands will park their cars and set up their grills hours before the game to cook out and meet new people in the UMass community. Due to problems with tailgating before, the UMass Police Department put in place tailgating policies in hopes of lowering the number of problems in the future. These policies can be found in pamphlets handed out to cars as they come in to tailgate. You can also get in touch with UMPD with any questions about the tailgating policies prior to the games.

The Minutemen will get their first chance for revenge against one of their top rivals, the Rhode Island Rams, on Saturday, September 17 at the home opener. The Minutemen fell short in their previous game against the Rams, losing 37-34. If you’re looking to watch a great game of football, or just have a fun time with your friends, head over to McGuirk Stadium this Saturday to show your Minuteman pride.

Jen Mageary can be reached for comment at [email protected]