There’s nothing like the smell of barbecue on a Saturday afternoon … hogs roasting on the street among a sea of crimson and cream. It was a breathtaking scene, coming from a culture that lives and breathes basketball to be immersed in a culture that lives and breathes football and Alabama football only. I travelled alongside my fiancé to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to cheer on his beloved Crimson Tide as they faced the Arkansas Razorbacks, and although I love football, I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that I planned to constantly have a glass of sweet tea in hand.

We awoke on Saturday morning and struck out for a late breakfast. Heading down the main strip near the football stadium, I noticed that fans were already lining the streets. Tailgating tents were set with music blaring and pigs roasting … at 11 a.m. for a 6 p.m. game! As we drove a little farther, I noticed fans in lawn chairs lining the street as if they were awaiting the Pegasus Parade.

After our meal, walking to the Paul W. Bryant Museum, we passed a multitude of fans. With a sweet Southern twang I heard repeatedly, “Hey, how y’all doin’?” I admired the flair of the women: It was game day and their hair was perfectly done, makeup-flawless, wearing dresses coupled with cowboy boots. Anyone who knows me knows that I have a great affinity for cowboy boots. I like big, sexy hair, natural but glamorous makeup and, of course, an occasion-appropriate dress. Oh, there’s nothing like a Southern woman.