What Each Fan is Drinking at the Tailgate Party and Why
Yes, we are talking about the SEC. College football’s elite playground, where the choice of bourbon at a tailgate is almost as important as the game itself. The fans? Well, let’s just say they have opinions—strong opinions—about both their team and their drink of choice. So, what kind of bourbon and pairing would each SEC football fan bring to a tailgate? Buckle up, because it’s going to be a rough ride through some very specific brand choices that say everything you need to know about these fanbases. Spoiler alert: It’s mostly about trying to look cooler than they actually are.
Alabama – Pappy Van Winkle
Of course, Pappy Van Winkle is the drink of choice for Alabama fans. Nothing says “I’m a champion” like a bottle that’s as elusive as an undefeated season and as overpriced as a season ticket to Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama fans bring Pappy Van Winkle to the tailgate with all the subtlety of a championship parade, hoping everyone will marvel at their superior taste (and perhaps, like their football program, pretend they’re just a little more exclusive than everyone else). They’ll pour it like it’s the nectar of the gods, as if the bourbon somehow imbibes them with the same mystique and invincibility they believe their football team possesses. (Spoiler: it doesn’t.)
As you sip your glass, they’ll go on about how the Pappy “has this delicate finish,” as if you, too, can taste the years of tradition and excellence—but really, you’re just trying not to choke on the pretension. They’ll tell you that only the true connoisseurs can appreciate Pappy’s deep complexity, all while subtly reminding you that their team has won more championships than you’ve had hot meals.
What does Pappy Van Winkle pair with? Conecuh sausage, obviously. It’s the kind of tailgate food that embodies Alabama football: simple, hearty, and so saturated with fat that it could probably survive a nuclear apocalypse. The sausage is smoky and flavorful, and when paired with Pappy, it’s like a culinary metaphor for their program—robust, a little greasy, and unapologetically Southern. You’ll watch Alabama fans take a bite of sausage, wash it down with a sip of bourbon, and casually mention that “this is exactly what a national championship tastes like”—which, you know, might be true if that was all they had left to win.
By the end of the tailgate, Alabama fans will have consumed a year’s worth of sausage, sipped their way through a half-bottle of Pappy, and are still sure that their team is destined to dominate the SEC for another decade. Of course, this is Alabama, so they probably will—at least until they lose to LSU or Georgia in the SEC Championship again. But at least they’ll have Pappy Van Winkle to help them swallow that bitter pill.
Arkansas – Old Forester 100 Proof
Their drink of choice, Old Forester 100 Proof—the bourbon that perfectly mirrors Arkansas football: strong, unpretentious, and a little bit rough around the edges. Arkansas fans will bring this bottle to the tailgate like it’s the best thing they’ve ever tasted, and honestly, it’s probably the only thing that isn’t going to disappoint them this season. Old Forester 100 Proof is bold and unapologetic, much like the Razorbacks themselves, who—let’s face it—are always “on the rise” right up until they lose by three touchdowns to Mississippi State.
You’ll get a hearty pour from an Arkansas fan who’ll tell you, with complete sincerity, that Old Forester has a “rich, spicy profile” that pairs perfectly with the “rugged outdoors” lifestyle they embody. Translation: they’re probably out here tailgating next to either a beat-up 1978 F-100 or a brand new Ford Raptor R (with the wealth gap of this state, there’s not much in between) with a pile of empty Tyson chicken nugget bags in the bed. Because nothing says Arkansas like the world’s largest producer of chicken and a bourbon that’ll put some hair on your chest. Old Forester 100 Proof has a punch that’ll remind you of your last trip to a Tyson Foods factory outlet—sharp, slightly industrial, and packing a little more heat than you were expecting.
And what does this bold, high-proof bourbon pair with? A platter of chicken tenders, BBQ sliders, or—let’s not kid ourselves—an entire bucket of Tyson chicken nuggets. Arkansas fans have no qualms about dining like royalty, if royalty’s idea of a fine meal includes dipping their chicken in ranch while talking about “the future of Razorback football.” (Which, let’s be honest, has been “bright” for about 20 years with very little to show for it.)
They’ll sip the Old Forester, wear their Hogs hats like they’re made of gold, and tell you about how this is the year they’re going to turn the corner. Meanwhile, they’re 2-4 in the SEC , and their quarterback is already out for the season. But it doesn’t matter. The Old Forester flows, the chicken nuggets disappear, and the delusions of grandeur continue. Cheers to another season of “next year’s the year” in Arkansas.
Auburn – Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve, the bourbon that says, “We’re sophisticated… but not too sophisticated.” Auburn fans will bring this bottle to the tailgate like they’re channeling some kind of Southern gentility—the kind that’s convinced they’re one good season away from finally cracking the SEC elite. The kind of bourbon that says, “We’ve got a legacy,” even if it’s mostly just mildly memorable bowl games and one magical 2010 season. Auburn fans sip Woodford with an air of refined confidence, as if the smooth, nuanced taste of it will somehow transform their football program into an actual contender. Spoiler alert: it won’t.
As they pour their glasses, they’ll tell you all about how Woodford Reserve is a “premium, small-batch bourbon” with “notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and spice.” They’ll say this like they’ve just discovered the secret to life, even though their football team has been trapped in a permanent state of almost—almost beating Alabama, almost winning the SEC West, almost being relevant for more than a few months every other decade. But they’ll assure you that loyalty is worth something, especially when paired with a highly marketable bottle of Woodford Reserve that gives the illusion of prestige, even if the win-loss record doesn’t quite match up.
And what does Woodford Reserve pair with? Naturally, BBQ pulled pork sliders, because what’s more Southern than the combination of slow-cooked pork, smoky sauce, and a bourbon that tries to be as refined as a Vanderbilt graduate but can’t quite shake the feeling that it’s still just a bit too mainstream. Auburn fans will throw these sliders on a plate like they’re serving you a five-course meal, all while pretending that the one time they nearly beat Alabama in 2013 somehow validates their football program’s entire existence.
Meanwhile, the confusion of the day will continue as Auburn fans try to explain their mascot situation. “Wait, so is it Aubie the Tiger, or is it War Eagle?” They’ll ask, swirling their Woodford in their glass, trying to figure out if they should be rallying behind a bird or a big cat, neither of which seem particularly suited for the SEC West, but whatever—at least it’s better than their ever-changing quarterback situation. And hey, just like their mascot dilemma, Auburn’s football program is always a little disoriented and unsure of its true identity—are they an up-and-coming powerhouse, or just another middle-of-the-pack team with delusions of grandeur?
By the end of the tailgate, Auburn fans will still be holding on to their Woodford Reserve, their hearts full of hope for next season, when—this time—they finally take that next step. And, perhaps, by then they’ll have figured out if they’re cheering for an eagle, a tiger, or some other mythical creature from the land of “we’ll get ‘em next year.”
Florida – Tito’s Handmade Vodka
And now we have Florida—the team that hasn’t won an SEC title since Tim Tebow was leading the Gators to national glory, but hey, at least they’ve got Tito’s Handmade Vodka to keep the delusion alive. Sure, it’s not bourbon (and they’ll definitely call it that), but who’s counting? Florida fans aren’t about to let a little thing like “accuracy” stop them from enjoying their tailgate. Tito’s is smooth, popular, and has just enough swagger to match the Gators’ decades-long claim to fame that maybe this year will be the year they finally return to dominance. Spoiler: it won’t be. But hey, they’ll keep saying it anyway.
Tito’s is the perfect drink for the Florida fan who still thinks they’re a dynasty. It’s not overly fancy, not too expensive, but just enough to make a statement: “We used to be kings of the SEC, and this vodka? It’s as smooth as our old offense.” When Florida fans pour you a glass (and they’ll definitely tell you it’s the best vodka ever), just know that they’ve convinced themselves that this is the year they’ll finally knock off Georgia and make it to the SEC Championship. Of course, they’ve been saying that for the better part of the last decade, but at least the Tito’s is flowing and the sandwiches are fresh.
And speaking of food: Cuban sandwiches. Because what else pairs with Tito’s in the Sunshine State? Florida’s football program may be all over the map, but a Cuban sandwich is a tried-and-true classic. Packed with layers of ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, this sandwich is everything Florida fans wish their team was: bold, flavorful, and just a little messy. It’s a sandwich that represents hope—a little salty, a little spicy, and perfect for a tailgate where everyone is pretending this is the year Florida makes it back to the top. Between bites of Cuban sandwiches and sips of Tito’s (which, of course, they’ll call bourbon even though it’s not), Florida fans will assure you that their team is “right there,” “on the verge,” and “just a few pieces away from making a run.”
As they hand you a drink, they’ll tell you about the “bright future” of Florida football, how Billy Napier is the coach to bring them back to glory, and how this is finally the year they’re going to beat Georgia. They’ve been saying that for the past decade, but this time, this time it feels different—right? Because Florida fans will never give up hope. They’ll keep showing up, tailgating with Tito’s and Cuban sandwiches, even as their team suffers another embarrassing loss to Georgia. After all, it’s not about the wins; it’s about believing in the possibility of them.
By the end of the tailgate, Florida fans will have gone through a few bottles of Tito’s (which, again, they’ll call bourbon because it’s “close enough”), a small mountain of Cuban sandwiches, and at least three hours of talking about how the next Heisman-winning quarterback is right around the corner. Sure, their team might be stuck in the middle of the SEC pack, but Florida fans will always have that hope—and an endless supply of Tito’s, ready to drown their sorrows until next year’s surefire championship run.
Because here’s the thing: no matter how many seasons they’ve spent out of the spotlight, Florida fans know how to tailgate. Tito’s, Cuban sandwiches, and that unshakable belief that this year will be the year they finally put it all together. Will it happen? Probably not. But the real magic is in the tailgate, where every fan believes this is the year the Gators are going to turn it around—and hey, that’s worth celebrating, even if it’s with something that’s definitely not bourbon.
Georgia – Blanton’s Bourbon
Blanton’s Bourbon—because nothing screams “SEC royalty” like a bottle of bourbon so hard to find, it might as well be tucked away in a vault somewhere on the Georgia campus. Georgia fans roll up to the tailgate with a bottle of Blanton’s like they’ve just discovered the ultimate prize, holding it high with that familiar, smug look of a fan base just convinced that this is finally their year to dethrone Alabama. It’s smooth, it’s refined, it’s got a cult following—and it’s also the perfect bourbon for fans who think they’re on the brink of greatness, even though they’ve been “on the brink” for decades.
Georgia fans will tell you, with a straight face, that Blanton’s is a “small-batch masterpiece,” and if you’re lucky, they’ll even educate you on the fine art of collecting the bottle caps that feature different letters spelling out “Blanton’s”—as if that somehow makes the 40-year championship drought a little easier to swallow. They’ll sip it with the same serene confidence of a team that’s “definitely” about to win it all, though you can see the faintest glimmer of regret when they remember all the years under Mark Richt, where they “almost” got there, only to falter in the big game year after year. But hey, this is their year, right? Forget the Richt years. They’ve buried those painful memories somewhere deep, next to the clips of those near-miss SEC Championships and their consistent failure to win a national title.
What does Blanton’s Bourbon pair with? Naturally, fried chicken sandwiches slathered in pimento cheese, because nothing says “I’m on top of the SEC world” like the most indulgent Southern comfort food imaginable. It’s a tailgate classic—filling, rich, and oh-so-Southern, much like the Georgia fan base’s delusions of grandeur. The fried chicken is crispy, the pimento cheese is spicy and creamy, and together, they’re the culinary equivalent of Georgia’s program: almost perfect. As they bite into their sandwiches, you can almost hear the fan’s internal monologue: “This year’s different. This year, we’re finally going to do it.”
But let’s not kid ourselves. With every bite of chicken and every sip of Blanton’s, Georgia fans will still really be trying to forget the Richt years—the years of “almost” winning, of getting close but never quite reaching the summit. Surely the pain of almost winning those SEC titles and almost winning that national championship will be drowned out by the bourbon, right? At least the fried chicken’s good.
By the end of the tailgate, they’ll have crushed a few more sandwiches, emptied the bottle of Blanton’s, and convinced themselves that this is the year they finally do what they’ve been saying they’ll do since the 1980s. Because if there’s anything Georgia fans are really good at, it’s pretending that the last 40 years of near-misses are somehow irrelevant when they’re drinking a $70 bottle of bourbon. Here’s to hoping they really forget those Richt years—for their own sake.
Kentucky – Buffalo Trace
For KY fans? Buffalo Trace—the bourbon that screams, “We know our whiskey because we live here and everything is bourbon.” Kentucky fans will roll up to the tailgate with a bottle of this beloved spirit like they’re the gatekeepers of bourbon culture, ready to enlighten the uninitiated about the sublime history of their home state’s distilling legacy. Kentucky fans know they have it good—they’re literally surrounded by the stuff. So when they hand you a glass, they’ll give you that little nod of approval, as if they’ve just invited you into some sacred circle of bourbon connoisseurs that only true Kentucky fans can belong to. You’ll take a sip, and they’ll begin their lecture about how Buffalo Trace is crafted with precision and history—which, in all fairness, it is.
But while you’re nodding politely, they’re probably already deep into a mental monologue about how this might finally be the year Kentucky football isn’t a walking disaster. Of course, they’ll do their best to distract you from last season’s painful collapse with tales of bourbon’s 200-year history, hoping that a few more pours of Buffalo Trace will smooth over the fact that they’re still riding the highs of that one magical 2018 Citrus Bowl win. This year, though. This year’s different. Probably.
And what does Buffalo Trace pair with? Naturally, hot brown sandwiches—because nothing says “Kentucky” quite like a dish invented at the famous Brown Hotel in Louisville, which combines turkey, bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce that has absolutely no business existing on a sandwich but somehow works. Kentucky fans will tell you it’s “classic,” “elevated comfort food,” and “a true reflection of our state’s culture.” Meanwhile, it’s the kind of dish that’s half over-the-top and half a questionable choice, much like their football program. You’ll eat it with the same kind of resigned optimism they carry into each season—yes, it’s messy and a little heavy, but maybe this time it’ll all come together.
As you bite into the Hot Brown, they’ll tell you how this year’s team is loaded with potential—even though it’s the same team that got blown out by Georgia last year—and how Kentucky’s getting closer to finally being relevant again. They’ll remind you that bourbon and football have been intertwined in Kentucky for centuries—just like the perpetual hope that next year, they’ll actually be more than just a few “good games” away from being competitive in the SEC East.
By the end of the tailgate, they’ll have polished off half the bottle of Buffalo Trace, convinced that a few more sips will definitely fix everything—both their football team’s shortcomings and their ever-growing sense of “almost-there” despair. But hey, the bourbon’s good, and the Hot Brown is delicious in its own greasy, indulgent way. And in Kentucky, sometimes that’s all you need to keep believing in next season.
LSU – Sazerac Rye
Sazerac Rye, of course, because what better way to show off your “New Orleans sophistication” than by bringing something that’s hard to pronounce and even harder to appreciate for the uninitiated? LSU fans will roll up to the tailgate with a bottle of Sazerac Rye like it’s the Holy Grail, letting everyone know that not only do they watch football, they live football—and obviously, they only drink the best bourbon in the world.
They’ll pour it with the same meticulous precision as someone ordering an expensive wine at a French bistro, all while giving a lecture about how New Orleans is a spiritual experience and how this particular rye has a “hint of history” and layers of complexity that only the truly enlightened can appreciate. You’ll take a sip and, without missing a beat, they’ll raise an eyebrow and explain that the spirit of Mardi Gras is literally in every bottle. You’ll nod along, pretending you understand, all while secretly wondering if the only spirit in that bottle is the inevitable, lingering pain of being obliterated (or reminded that Mardi Gras started there in Mobile) by Alabama year after year.
And here’s the best part—Sazerac Rye pairs perfectly with a good ol’ corn dog. Because nothing says “sophistication” like a $60 bottle of rye washed down with a $2 fried snack. LSU fans will tell you it’s a bold choice and totally elevates the experience, and they’ll convince you that pairing fine spirits with a deep-fried processed meat stick is somehow inspired. You might not understand the logic, but you can’t deny the confidence. LSU fans are going to talk a big game, even if their team’s performance definitely won’t back it up. But hey, at least their bourbon is fancy enough to mask the taste of another season of mediocrity.
Mississippi State – Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel
Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel—because if there’s one thing Mississippi State fans know how to do, it’s keep it real, and maybe just a little bit rough around the edges. They’ll roll up to the tailgate with a bottle of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, and while it’s a step up from the regular Jack you’ll find at every honky-tonk in America, it’s still grounded enough to keep things honest. Mississippi State fans aren’t here to show off—well, except maybe with their unofficially dubbed “Stark Vegas” flair—but when it comes to their bourbon, they’ll proudly claim their spot somewhere between the dive bars of the SEC and the high-society liquor shelves of bourbon snobs. It’s dependable, like their football team—good enough to make some noise, but not quite consistently great… yet.
When they pour you a glass, they’ll tell you with absolute conviction that Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel is “smooth, full-bodied, with hints of vanilla and caramel,” which sounds fancy, but we all know it’s mostly just their way of ignoring the fact that their team is currently mired in yet another season of “close but not quite.” They’ll really want to talk about how the program is “on the rise,” just like Stark Vegas, which—let’s face it—has a nightlife scene that’s thriving as long as your idea of “thriving” is a couple of dive bars, a neon sign, and a karaoke contest.
What does Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel pair with? Fried catfish and hushpuppies, naturally. It’s the quintessential Mississippi comfort food, and if there’s one thing Mississippi State fans can depend on, it’s fried catfish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and accompanied by hushpuppies so golden you’ll swear they’ve come straight from a Southern fairytale. Nothing fancy, nothing frilly—just hearty, satisfying food that tastes like home. It’s a meal as straightforward as their football program—always full of promise, sometimes messy, but undeniably satisfying when you’re in Stark Vegas and you’ve been tailgating for hours.
As they take their first bite of fried catfish, wash it down with a generous pour of Jack Daniel’s, and make sure everyone knows they’re officially in StarkVegas, Mississippi State fans will talk about how “this is the year” (even if it’s not). Sure, the team might have a few more hiccups before they actually win the SEC West, but in their world, the party doesn’t stop. After all, who needs a title when you’ve got bourbon in one hand and a catfish sandwich in the other, surrounded by the glow of neon lights and the good folks of Stark Vegas, where every tailgate is the best one ever… until next year.
By the end of the tailgate, they’ll have polished off half the bottle of Jack Daniel’s, some of which was no doubt drank directly from a cow bell, and Mississippi State fans will still be holding on to that stubborn, unshakable optimism that “next year” is the breakthrough year—maybe they’ll finally crack the top of the SEC. But for now, they’ll happily drink, eat, and revel in the simple joy of StarkVegas, where a good time is always just around the corner—right alongside the “promising” next football season.
Missouri – Evan Williams Single Barrel
Evan Williams Single Barrel—because if there’s one thing Missouri fans know, it’s that you don’t need to be flashy to be good. Just like their football team, Missouri tailgates are all about consistency. It’s solid, it’s dependable, and while it won’t necessarily win any “best of” awards, it’ll get the job done. Missouri’s bourbon choice says a lot about their football program—stuck somewhere in the middle of the SEC, not quite bad enough to be ignored, but not quite good enough to really contend. And yet, they keep showing up every season, bourbon in hand, tailgate spread ready, hoping thisis the year things will finally click.
When Missouri fans pour you a glass of Evan Williams Single Barrel, they’ll tell you all about how it’s “rich, smooth, and full of oak, vanilla, and caramel.” But let’s be honest, they’re just trying to distract you from the fact that they’ve been stuck in football limbo for years. Are they good? Sometimes. Are they great? Not yet. But Missouri fans are nothing if not optimistic, especially when they’re holding a glass of bourbon and pretending that maybe, just maybe, their football team will finally break out of the mediocrity zone. They’ll remind you that they’re “not those tigers” from LSU and that the Missouri Tigers are a totally different breed, though occasionally, it’s hard to tell based on how often they get confused with their SEC counterparts.
What does Evan Williams Single Barrel pair with? Pulled pork sandwiches with tangy BBQ sauce, of course. Missouri fans will serve up these smoky, savory sandwiches with pride, because—let’s face it—they know their BBQ is some of the best in the SEC. Sure, their football program might not be on the same level as Alabama or Georgia, but when it comes to a tailgate spread, Missouri fans can hold their own. The pulled pork is tender, the sauce is the right mix of sweet and tangy, and the whole thing is served up on a bun that’s as dependable as Missouri’s football team—good enough to get you through the day, but not exactly setting the world on fire. It’s comfort food, with just enough kick to make you think there’s potential for greatness.
As they pile up their plates with pulled pork and toss back a few more pours of Evan Williams, Missouri fans will talk about how this is the year they take the next step—this is the year they finally make it to the top of the SEC East. They’ll insist their offense is definitely ready to compete with the big dogs, and maybe this time, they’ll finally beat the SEC teams they’re always just a few plays short of beating. Of course, they’ll also remind you, with just a touch of defensiveness, that they are the Missouri Tigers, not to be confused with LSU’s infinitely more successful and more intimidating tiger mascot. Sure, the two programs share a common name, but Missouri will always be quick to point out that they’re the ones who invented the “Arch,” so, really, they’re the ones who know how to do things right.
By the end of the tailgate, Missouri fans will have downed half the bottle of Evan Williams and half the plate of pulled pork, still convinced that “next year” will finally be their breakout season. Sure, they’ll probably lose to the big teams again, but for now, they’ll hold on to that eternal hope that maybe this time—in the same way Evan Williams delivers a reliable sip every time—they’ll finally rise above their SEC middle-tier status. They may not be LSU’s Tigers, but they’ll always have their bourbon and BBQ to get them through the next season of “maybe we’re on the verge.”
Oklahoma – Maker’s Mark 46
Oh Hell yeah, for OU it’s Maker’s Mark 46—because if there’s one thing Oklahoma fans love more than a loud, optimistic proclamation about how “this year’s finally the year” for their football team, it’s a bourbon that’s both approachable and just fancy enough to feel special without being too pretentious. Much like their football program, Oklahoma fans know how to make noise, but they’re still figuring out how to make that noise mean something on the national stage. So, they’ll show up at your tailgate with a bottle of Maker’s Mark 46, as if to say, “Look, we know we’ve got a good thing here, but we’re also very aware that we need to take it to the next level if we ever want to be seen as truly elite.”
When they pour you a glass, expect a long, drawn-out discussion about how Maker’s Mark 46 is “a little bolder” than regular Maker’s Mark, with a “rich, caramelized oak finish” that’s somehow supposed to symbolize Oklahoma’s unique blend of football history and hopeful future. Of course, they’ll skip over the years where they almost made it, or the times they’ve been smacked around by SEC teams in the College Football Playoff, and instead focus on the now—because this year, this time, it’s all about getting back to the top. You’ll hear the word “championship” thrown around a lot, but when you remind them that they haven’t won one in over 20 years, they’ll just shrug and take another sip of their ultra-smooth, oak-infused bourbon like maybe this time it’ll be different.
What does Maker’s Mark 46 pair with? Brisket tacos with chipotle sauce. Oklahoma’s got a thing for beef—it is, after all, the state’s favorite protein—and they know that when you want to show up to a tailgate in style, you bring something just a little more refined than your average BBQ. The brisket is tender, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth good, while the chipotle sauce adds that smoky, spicy kick that Oklahoma fans are always talking about when they theoretically discuss how they’re going to challenge the big boys in the SEC after their move. The tacos are fresh, bold, and pack a punch—kind of like the Sooner football team in the first half of every playoff game before they inevitably lose to Alabama or Georgia. Still, they’re convinced that the perfectly seasoned brisket in taco form is all the proof they need that they can do things better than the rest.
As they bite into their brisket tacos and sip their Maker’s Mark 46, you’ll hear the usual spiel: this year’s team is loaded with talent and we’re definitely ready to make a run at the playoff—all while they conveniently gloss over the fact that they’ve been getting absolutely throttled in the big games for the past few years. They’ll mention their new coaching staff (again), or their quarterback’s “big potential” (again), and of course, they’ll let you know that the SEC better watch outonce they make the leap—because that’s all Oklahoma fans seem to talk about now: their inevitable rise in the SEC. Never mind that they’ve been dominated in every playoff game by SEC teams. This year, they’ll be different—or so they say.
By the end of the tailgate, Oklahoma fans will have polished off half the bottle of Maker’s Mark 46, convinced that they’re only a few tweaks away from being back on top. After all, they’ve got a great program, a “rich tradition,” and plenty of talent—now, they just need to prove it on the big stage. They’ll tell you that this time will be different, and maybe it will. Maybe, just maybe, this will be the year they finally break through the playoff and start living up to the promises that have been whispered every offseason since Bob Stoops left. But for now, they’ll drown their playoff pain in brisket tacos and smooth bourbon, believing—just as they always have—that next year, Oklahoma will finally live up to their perennial “top 5” ranking… even if it takes a few more years to actually win a national title.
Ole Miss – Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style—because if there’s one thing Ole Miss fans know, it’s that the best way to make a statement at a tailgate is with a bourbon that feels important. This isn’t just any bottle off the shelf—it’s a little bit of history, a little bit of swagger, and a whole lot of “look at us, we’ve got daddy’s money and know how to use it.” Ole Miss tailgates are the kind of place where the bourbon flows just a bit smoother, the food’s a bit fancier, and the general attitude is a little more polished than the rest of the SEC—because let’s face it, Ole Miss fans are always a few steps ahead when it comes to style and presentation. Sure, the football team may not always back it up on the field, but damn it, they look good while doing it.
When they pour you a glass of Old Forester 1920, it’s almost like they’re presenting you with a trophy. They’ll tell you all about its rich, full-bodied flavor—”notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and a little spice,” as if it’s the perfect metaphor for their football program: complex, intriguing, and just a touch naughty—you know, like the time they almost pulled off a win against Alabama, or when their quarterback threw a touchdown in the Sugar Bowl that’ll be forever etched in their minds. It’s a bourbon for the team that almost makes it to the top, but still manages to remind everyone that they’re one good season away from doing something special. You’re pretty sure they’re still living off the fumes of those few great years when they were ranked in the top 10 and actually beat some big SEC teams… but hey, the bourbon tastes so goodthat it almost makes you believe they’re on the verge of greatness again.
What does Old Forester 1920 pair with? Crawfish étouffée, naturally—because, let’s be real, Ole Miss fans have always liked a bit of Southern flair with a touch of sophistication. They’ll dish out crawfish étouffée with pride, because they know it’s got the kind of spice and richness that matches their team’s always just a little bit too fancy vibe. The crawfish is tender, the sauce is buttery and indulgent, and it’s served with enough class to remind everyone that Ole Miss fans might be rooting for a football team that’s never quite there, but damn if they don’t do it with a level of style that few can match. Plus, let’s be honest—crawfish étouffée pairs perfectly with a bourbon that’s equally about history and swagger, not just taste. If you can’t win a national championship, at least you can win the tailgate competition for most extra.
As they chew their crawfish étouffée and sip their Old Forester, Ole Miss fans will enthusiastically remind you that this is finally the year they’re going to win the SEC West—because Lane Kiffin definitely has them on the fast track to greatness, and the program has absolutely turned the corner (except when they don’t, but hey, it’s all part of the fun, right?). They’ll also subtly hint at how they’re the richest school in the state, and how Daddy’s money has definitely made sure the stadium gets new luxury boxes every few years, because why not invest in a little comfort while watching your team “rebuild” for the next big season?
By the end of the tailgate, Ole Miss fans will have drained half the bottle of Old Forester, confidently proclaiming that “next year is the year” for their football team to finally win the SEC, while also quietly planning to buy new cars for everyone if they do. Sure, they’ve been saying that every year since the Rebel Black Bear was still a good idea, but they’ll never stop believing. After all, when you’ve got bourbon this smooth and crawfish this rich, you don’t need a national title—you’ve got Daddy’s money, a winning attitude, and an endless supply of hope that next year, maybe they’ll actually do it. And if they don’t, well, there’s always next season—and at least the tailgate was fantastic.
South Carolina – Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, because South Carolina fans know that if they’re going to tailgate, they might as well do it with some class. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill bourbon; it’s got depth, sophistication, and a bit of that Southern charm, much like the Gamecocks themselves—always trying to look just a bit more refined than the competition, even if they’re not quite at the top. They’ll show up at your tailgate with a bottle of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked like it’s the best-kept secret in the SEC, talking about the “extra barrel aging” and the “rich, caramelized oak flavors” as though the entire program is just one extra good season away from being the next big thing in the East.
When South Carolina fans pour you a glass, they’ll do it with a knowing smile, like they’ve just handed you a rare gem. It’s rich, it’s smooth, it’s got enough complexity to make you think they’ve been building toward greatness for decades, even if they haven’t really been able to break through since Steve Spurrier left town. Still, they’re full of hope. Every year, they think this will be the year they finally get over the hump and make a run at the SEC East. And if they don’t, well, there’s always next year—just like the next glass of Woodford Reserve, which they’ll happily pour for you while they talk about their exciting new recruits and potential breakout stars.
What does Woodford Reserve Double Oaked pair with? Pulled pork with a tangy mustard-based BBQ sauce—because, let’s be real, South Carolina fans know good BBQ when they see it. Forget the ketchup-heavy, sickly-sweet stuff you get in other parts of the country. This is the kind of BBQ that’s got a kick, with the tang of mustard sauce balancing out the rich, tender pork. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it perfectly matches the boldness of South Carolina’s “we could beat Florida this year” mentality. The mustard-based BBQ is both a little spicy and a little bit sweet—much like the Gamecocks themselves, who are always just a little bit unpredictable. Sure, they might be the underdog, but there’s always a chance that with the right combination of ingredients (and a few lucky breaks), they might pull off the upset of a lifetime.
As they serve you the pulled pork, slathered in that tangy mustard sauce, South Carolina fans will tell you about how they’re finally turning the corner with new leadership, a renewed sense of hope, and all the right pieces falling into place. They’ll tell you that Coach Beamer’s got them on the right track, and that this year is the year they’ll shock the SEC. You’ll listen politely while you savor the pork and sip the Woodford Reserve—because, let’s be honest, this is a program that always seems to be on the verge of something, but just can’t seem to get there. Sure, the Gamecocks have had some great years, but great never seems to last long enough to be labeled a “dynasty” or even a “contender.”
By the end of the tailgate, South Carolina fans will have drained half the bottle of Woodford, still holding on to the idea that this could be the season they finally break through and challenge Georgia and Tennessee for the SEC East. Sure, the last few years have been full of ups and downs (mostly downs), but they’ll tell you that they’ve got the right formula this time. After all, this is the year the Gamecocks finally put it all together—just like how that mustard BBQ sauce and the smooth bourbon come together for a perfect bite and a perfect sip. Even if they don’t, you can bet they’ll be ready to go next season, with another glass of Woodford in hand and a whole new set of “this is the year” speeches. It’s a cycle that’ll continue, because when you’ve got bourbon this good and pulled pork this tasty, there’s always hope that next year will be different.
Tennessee – Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel
Good ‘ole Rocky Top in a bottle itself, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel—because Tennessee fans know that nothing says “tradition” like the iconic whiskey that’s been around since the 1860s, much like their football team’s ever-present, yet elusive glory days. Jack Daniel’s is bold, confident, and familiar—just like the Volunteers, who are always one high-powered recruiting class away from returning to the promised land… or at least, that’s what they tell you. Every season, Tennessee fans are convinced that this year is the year they finally take down the big dogs of the SEC, even if they’ve been getting beat by Arkansas—yes, Arkansas—for the past few seasons. But don’t worry, with a glass of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel in hand, you can still pretend the Vols are on the cusp of greatness.
When Tennessee fans pour you a glass of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, they’ll hand it to you with all the gravity of a game-winning touchdown—because, well, they really believe this is the season they turn things around. They’ll talk about how the bourbon has “rich, full-bodied flavor” and a “smooth finish,” as if those same descriptors could somehow apply to their football program: steadily building, but always just a little behind the top tier. They’ll wax poetic about the legacyof Tennessee football—because let’s be real, that’s all they really have to cling to these days. Sure, they lost to Arkansas this year (and the year before that), and yes, their defense looked like Swiss cheese against some of the better teams in the SEC, but hey—this time is different, right? Just wait until next season, when the recruits finally pan out and the Vols win 10 games and maybe—maybe—knock off Alabama for the first time since the Clinton administration.
What does Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel pair with? Smoked ribs with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce—because when you’re tailgating in Tennessee, the BBQ has to be as bold as the dreams of every Volunteer fan who still thinks their team will contend for the SEC East after the annual Arkansas loss. The ribs are tender, smoky, and slathered in a sweet yet tangy sauce that offers the perfect balance of kick and comfort, much like Tennessee’s football season: full of hope, mixed with the occasional gut punch of getting outplayed by teams they should have beaten. The BBQ sauce is the perfect metaphor for Tennessee’s program—just the right amount of sweet optimism, but with a sharp, tangy reality check (like when Arkansas strolls into Knoxville and leaves with an upset win).
As they serve you the ribs and pour you more Jack Daniel’s, Tennessee fans will remind you that their true potential is just one season away. They’ll talk about how they’re finally on the rise, about how they’ve got a great coach in Josh Heupel, and about how this is the year they finally dethrone Georgia or at least get back to 10 wins and make a real splash in the SEC. Of course, they’ll gloss over the fact that they just got beat by Arkansas (again)—and the fact that they barely squeaked by Missouri, and that every time they face an actual contender, their defense gets roasted like one of their ribs on the grill. But hey, it’s all part of the fun, right? They’ll tell you they could’ve beaten Arkansas if not for a few key mistakes or a bad call, but don’t worry—next year, they’ll be the ones handing out the beatings.
By the end of the tailgate, Tennessee fans will have drained most of the bottle of Jack Daniel’s, still convinced that this season, despite getting embarrassed by Arkansas, was just a blip on the radar. They’ll talk about how next year’s recruiting class is going to be “game-changing” and how they’re ready to compete at the highest level—just ignore the fact that they haven’t beaten Alabama in over a decade, and the last time they beat Georgia was when Peyton Manning was still under center. The optimism is real, even if the results often aren’t. But hey, at least they’ve got their Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel and sweet, smoky ribs to get them through the tough losses—and a little bit of hope to keep the tailgates lively, year after year.
Because in Tennessee, no matter how bad things get—whether they lose to Arkansas, or get steamrolled by Georgia—there’s always another season to believe in. And there’s always another glass of Jack Daniel’s to remind them that tradition and optimism will never, ever die. Even if their team still does.
Texas – Garrison Brothers Bourbon
Garrison Brothers Bourbon—because if you’re a Texas fan, you don’t just show up at the tailgate with any bourbon. No, you bring the good stuff. You bring something that’s as big and bold as the state itself, something that screams “we don’t need to win a national title to feel important.” That’s right, Texas fans arrive with Garrison Brothers Bourbon, a small-batch, Texas-made spirit that represents the confidence and swagger of a team that hasn’t been a real contender for over a decade. But don’t worry—this year will be different, because why wouldn’t it be? Just ignore the fact that Texas is still cutting checks to Jimbo Fisher (yes, that Jimbo Fisher) because they really thought they were getting an elite program, only for him to take them right back to the depths of mediocrity.
When Texas fans pour you a glass of Garrison Brothers, they’ll do so with the kind of assuredness that only comes from a team whose football program hasn’t mattered on the national stage since Vince Young and a certain Rose Bowl. They’ll hand you a glass and start raving about the rich caramel and vanilla notes, the smooth oak finish, and how “it’s one of the finest bourbons you’ll ever taste” — because clearly, the bourbon is doing a much better job of living up to its hype than their football team. After all, Texas fans love to tell you how they’re always just one good season away from greatness—and this is the year, right? This year they’ve got the recruits, the coach (and a hefty buyout to go with it), and the hopethat Arch Manning will lead them back to glory. Never mind the fact that they’re still paying off Jimbo Fisher to limp through seasons of mediocrity, too.
What does Garrison Brothers Bourbon pair with? Brisket, obviously. Because when you’re Texas, the only thing more important than winning a national championship is making sure you have the best brisket on the block. The brisket at a Texas tailgate isn’t just meat—it’s an experience. Slow-cooked for hours over an open flame, tender, juicy, and just smoky enough to remind you that everything in Texas is done bigger and better—or at least, that’s the idea. As they hand you a plate of perfectly sliced brisket, Texas fans will talk about how they have the best BBQ in the country, just as they talk about how this season, their football team is just one good recruiting class away from returning to the top. And, of course, they’ll pour more Garrison Brothers into your glass, like it’s going to fix the fact that the Longhorns haven’t been in the College Football Playoff since, well, ever.
As you take a bite of that juicy brisket and sip the rich bourbon, Texas fans will be full of optimism. They’ll tell you all about their “exciting new offense,” the next great quarterback (who they’re sure is this close to being an Heisman finalist), and how they’re finally going to beat Oklahoma this year, even if they’ve been saying that since the Obama administration. Of course, they’ll ignore the fact that they’re still getting outclassed by teams like Alabama, or that they couldn’t stop Arkansas from running all over them in the most recent matchup. Instead, they’ll talk about how they’re this close to putting it all together, and how with Garrison Brothers in hand, anything is possible. Who cares if Jimbo Fisher is still cashing checks for not winning anything of note—this year will be different, right?
By the time the tailgate wraps up, Texas fans will have drained at least half the bottle of Garrison Brothers, convinced that next season will be the year they finally get back to the top. Sure, they’ve lost to Arkansas, struggled with Kansas State, and have yet to prove they can beat anyone with a pulse, but those are just minor setbacks on their way to greatness. After all, when you’re paying Jimbo Fisher millions to coach your team and still serving up the finest bourbon and brisket in the land, you can afford to believe that this is finally the year they’ll make a run at the SEC. Or at least, a run at not being terrible for the first time since Mack Brown was the coach.
So go ahead, take another sip of that Garrison Brothers, nod politely, and smile as they talk about how next year is the year they finally dethrone Alabama and restore Texas to its rightful place atop college football. Because as long as they’ve got the bourbon and the brisket, they’ve got all the hope they need to keep believing. And hey, maybe this is the year. But probably not. At least they can always fall back on their rich bourbon legacy, right?
Texas A&M – Makers Mark
Makers Mark—the unofficial drink of Texas A&M fans who want to appear classy but are actually just trying to blend in without looking too desperate. It’s the kind of bourbon that says, “We’re here in the SEC, we belong!” but not in any overly impressive way. Makers Mark is that perfectly average bourbon that’s easy to find, not too bold, but still fancy enough to make you feel important for the 30 minutes before the tailgate gets absolutely ruined by the reality of another 7-5 season.
Texas A&M fans will pour this with an air of confidence, but you’ll quickly realize their idea of “knowing bourbon” is asking if it pairs well with “anything but vodka” (which, in fairness, is an improvement). They’ll then proceed to tell you how traditionally they drink it while they scream “WRECK ‘EM!” for some reason, before awkwardly trying to get you to join in a chant that definitely has no connection to their team, but hey, it’s part of the “Midnight Yell” tradition or whatever they call it. (Trust me, you don’t want to know.)
And what does Makers Mark pair with? Why, of course, beef jerky and fajitas—because nothing says “we’re a top-tier SEC program” like pretending to have a refined palate while you gnaw on a tough strip of dehydrated cow. It’s the kind of food that fills you up just enough so you can “pretend” you’re living your best life while standing in the middle of a field chanting to your team like you’re about to win a national championship (which, spoiler alert: you won’t).
Don’t worry, though. By the end of the tailgate, they’ll all be extremely convinced that next season is definitely the year Texas A&M finally takes that next step. Until they choke in the second half of the first game, of course. But hey, at least the Makers Mark will go down smooth enough to forget that little detail.
Vanderbilt – “Tailgating with Hope and Genius”
Vanderbilt—where tailgates aren’t about winning, they’re about showing up with your superior intellect and pretending that getting crushed by Alabama doesn’t sting as much as it does. If you’re a Vanderbilt fan, you probably don’t need to remind everyone that your school is an academic powerhouse—your degree practically screams Ivy League even if your football team screams “please, just one good game against an SEC opponent.” You’ve got the brains, the charm, and the self-awareness to know that football glory is a nice-to-have, not a must-have. But hey, being smart enough to recognize that doesn’t stop you from tailgating with a smile—or, let’s be honest, tailgating with hope.
Instead of showing up with the latest trendy bourbon or artisanal cocktails (because who has time for that when you’re busy reading War and Peace in Latin between plays), you’ll likely find Vanderbilt fans sipping on something far more practical—like whatever’s left over from last week’s grocery run. Maybe it’s a couple of craft beers from some obscure local brewery no one’s ever heard of. Maybe it’s a wine cooler from 2005, but hey, it pairs well with the idea that your football team will eventually live up to the potential you know is there, buried somewhere underneath the constant SEC beatdowns.
Vanderbilt fans are used to having to explain their tailgates in terms of intellectual superiority rather than actual competitive success. So don’t be surprised if, between the bites of cheap hot dogs and plastic cups of whatever, you hear a few deep thoughts about philosophy, politics, or how to cure world hunger. Because, let’s face it, you can’t be a Vanderbilt fan without being one of the smartest people at the tailgate. You’ll get unsolicited but well-informed opinions on why David Tennant was the best Doctor, or how your bourbon is a mere shadow of the truly fine scotch they’ve had in the libraries of Oxford, and if they’re feeling generous, they might even explain the nuances of quantum mechanics while you struggle to understand the box score.
What do Vanderbilt fans pair their tailgate with? Nashville Hot Chicken and Pimento cheese sandwiches, of course. Not because they’re Southern, but because the Nashville hot chicken sandwich is
‘locally sourced” and pimento cheese is a deliciously complex dish that demands a deep understanding of flavor combinations and food science. Seriously, these fans will tell you how this particular pimento cheese recipe is scientifically proven to be the best version of the spread, and why the cheese-to-mayo ratio must always be perfect, lest the integrity of the sandwich be compromised. In between sips of their carefully selected, probably organic wine or their nonchalantly procured beer, they’ll lecture you about how the sandwiches at their tailgate are like a metaphor for their football program: underappreciated, weirdly spicy, a little tangy, and deeply rooted in tradition despite not getting the recognition it deserves.
You’ll also see a few bagged kale chips scattered about the table, because, of course, Vanderbilt fans don’t just eat; they’re the type of people who analyze their food choices. They’ll explain the nutritional benefits of kale as if you asked for a TED talk, and in the same breath, tell you that this kale is locally sourced and sustainably grown, just like their football team—in theory. Meanwhile, the rest of the SEC fans will be tearing into their hot dogs and burgers, but you will be quietly pondering the deeper meaning of kale chips at a tailgate, because that’s how the Commodore mind works. Always thinking. Always analyzing. Always hoping that one day, their team won’t just make it to a bowl game by fluke, but will actually compete for an SEC title. Maybe.
As they hand you a kale chip (probably with a side of scholarly advice on how to make the perfect smoothie), Vanderbilt fans will regale you with tales of their “up-and-coming” football team, how Clark Lea is “rebuilding” the program with his innovative approach to defense (and hopefully, some offensive magic that hasn’t been seen since the Eisenhower administration). They’ll talk about how this year, the program is “finally ready” to take that next step, despite the fact that the only step they’ve been able to take recently is down. But that’s okay, because at Vanderbilt, it’s all about moral victories—like that one time they almost beat Missouri. Oh, and let’s not forget that they’ve still got the stadium renovations happening, so they’ll probably be able to host a bowl game in their new, still-under-construction stadium in a few years.
By the end of the tailgate, Vanderbilt fans will have gone through several plates of hot chicken and pimento cheese sandwiches, a whole bunch of kale chips, and who knows what else that’s far too “intellectually stimulating” for your average SEC fan. They’ll have convinced themselves that they won’t regret how their stomach feels tomorrow morning and while their football team may not win this year, next year will be the one where they finally break through—after all, the building blocks are in place, right? And when that day finally comes, you’ll want to be there, so you can say, “I knew those geniuses had it in them.”
For now, they’ll continue tailgating, sipping their craft beers, philosophizing about the meaning of football in the context of a modern liberal arts education, and, of course, nurturing that unwavering hope that one day—just one day—their team might stop being the punching bag of the SEC and actually compete. Because at Vanderbilt, it’s not about the wins. It’s about showing up, staying hopeful, and embracing the fact that you’re a fan of the smartest team in the SEC—even if that means tolerating another 40-point loss. .
The Final Rundown
There you have it, folks. The bourbon choices of SEC football fans. Just like their teams, some are delusional, some are unoriginal, and some just need something strong enough to get through the season. But hey, at least the bourbon “Just means more” and is better than the football in some cases, well, most cases really.
