The annual rivalry between the Falcons and the Toledo Rockets dates back to 1980 when the Falcons took down the Rockets 17-6. The rivalry has been played every year since then with the winner taking home the Peace Pipe Trophy initially and now the Battle of I-75 Trophy. These two Ohio-based universities are only 25 miles apart, so there are plenty of fans from both sides when these two meet creating a tense and fun game day atmosphere.
Bowling Green competes with Kent State for the Anniversary Award. The rivalry began in 1985 with the Falcons securing victory over the Golden Flashes 26-14. Since then the Falcons have held the upper hand in the series winning 23 of the 30 meetings. While these matchups have been lopsided on the field in the stands, you’ll find lots of fans from both teams make the trip across the state when these two bitter rivals get together.
Falcons Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Tailgating at Bowling Green starts bright and early with fans arriving hours before the game to toss back a few cold ones before entering Doyt Perry Stadium to cheer on their Falcons to victory. You’ll want to make sure to get to Doyt Perry several hours before the game, so you can take in all the sights and sounds of tailgating at Bowling Green.
It’s not just the drinking that will make a Bowling Green tailgate an outstanding experience. You’ll also be able to take part in some of the best cookouts northern Ohio has to offer. People will most likely be willing to share with you as long as you have something to offer to them. You’ll find that the fans here are very friendly no matter what colors you are wearing.
At Bowling Green, you’ll also be able to take part in exciting pre-game traditions like the Falcon Team Walk. The walk takes place a couple of hours before the game and gives fans the chance to see the band, cheerleaders, and team up close before the game. Make your way to sidewalk between the Stroh Center and Doyt Perry Stadium to take part in this fun tradition.
The camaraderie between fans and the fun spirited atmosphere make tailgating at Bowling Green a treat for any college football fan out there.
The Falcon Football Tailgate Park offers a variety of games and activities for the whole family including inflatables and much more. If you’re bringing your family to the game, then this is a great place to stop by and hang out before entering the stadium for any exciting day of football.
The walk takes place a couple of hours before the game and gives fans the chance to see the band, cheerleaders, and team up close before the game. Make your way to sidewalk between the Stroh Center and Doyt Perry Stadium to take part in this fun tradition.
Where to tailgate
Falcon Football Tailgate ParkThe Falcon Football Tailgate Park offers a variety of games and activities for the whole family including inflatables and much more. If you’re bringing your family to the game, then this is a great place to stop by and hang out before entering the stadium for any exciting day of football.
Alumni Association TailgatesIf you’re alumni or are attending the game with alumni than the Alumni Association Tailgates offer an excellent place to tailgate before the game. $10 will allow you eat to your heart's content without having to worry about setting up a tailgate of your own, which is perfect for those traveling to the game from far away.
$10 Parking LotsThere is no better place to set up a tailgate of your own on game days than the parking lots surrounding Doyt Perry Stadium. There are a variety of parking lots depending on how much you’re looking to spend on parking, so you should have no problem securing a great spot to set up the grill and crack open a few beers.
Falcons Stadium Guide
In Game
During the game, you will be able to check out the inside of Doyt Perry Stadium, one of the oldest remaining football stadiums in the MAC. There are a variety of new and historical elements that make these games a memorable experience. One of the best parts of taking in a Bowling Green game is the band. The band is very active throughout the game, playing a blast or clip from a song after almost every play. The input from the band helps to drive home the small school atmosphere and keeps the fans amped up and involved in the game.
The traditional and favorite chant during the game from the Bowling Green fans is the Falcon Screech. Anytime the Falcons pick up a first down the public address announcer calls out FOR ANOTHER FALCONS FIRST DOWN, followed by a loud Falcons screech that shakes the opponents.
The loudest section in Doyt Perry Stadium is the student section located in the northwest corner. Just as you would expect from a small school, the students pack the section and dawn the school’s colors, paint faces, dye hair, and wave signs all game long. The band also sits on the north end of the stadium as well creating a boom from the north end of the field. If you’re looking to sit in the loudest section of the stadium, then secure a spot near the north end where you’ll be a part of one of the most uproarious crowds in the MAC. You’ll have an outstanding time taking in a game at Doyt Perry Stadium where the rambunctious fans create a delightful small school football experience.
Located in the south end zone, the team store tent is the perfect place to grab some Bowling Green gear. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to the game or a souvenir you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
Following first downs a loud falcon screech will be played over the PA system. The screech is a fan favorite and energizes the entire crowd while striking fear into the heart of opponents, so keep your ears peeled for this game day tradition.
These two falcon mascots can be seen entertaining the crowd on the sidelines of every Bowling Green football game. One of the more unique traditions involving this pair of mascots is that they throw bubble gum, so keep your eyes peeled for them so you can snag a piece.
The official fight song for Bowling Green and is usually played after every score and at various times throughout the game.
Forward Falcons, Forward Falcons, Fight for victory. Show our spirit, make them fear it, Fight for dear Bee Gee. Forward Falcons, Forward Falcons, Make the contest keen. Hold up the fame of our mighty name, and win for Bowling Green (Repeat)
Ay Ziggy Zoomba
Ay Ziggy Zoomba is Bowling Green’s unofficial fight song. Gilbert Fox, an Air Force bombardier in World War II, brought a loose translation of a Zulu war chant back with him, and since its introduction in 1946 to a campus spirit assembly, it has kept its place in BGSU history. The Falcon football team traditionally sings “Ay Ziggy Zoomba” after each victory making it a big part of the Bowling Green game day experience.
Ay Ziggy Zoomba Zoomba Zoomba Ay Ziggy Zoomba Zoomba Ze Ay Ziggy Zoomba Zoomba Zoomba Ay Ziggy Zoomba Zoomba Ze Roll along you BG warriors Roll along and win for BGSU! (Repeat 2nd Time – Faster) (Repeat 3rd Time – Even faster)
Since 1982, Buffalo Wild Wings (or B-Dubs as our friends call us) has been the ultimate place to watch the game, have a cold beer and eat some great food.
Beckett’s offers a classic pub fare menu. We’re open daily and food is served until midnight. Join us to watch your favorite sporting events, meet with friends before and after the games, and for delicious food in a casual atmosphere!
Waffle House restaurants provide a unique dining experience where regular customers are greeted by name and enjoy social interactions with their servers and other customers. All food is prepared fresh, cooked to order and served on real china in a kitchen that is out front and in full view.
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