These two schools are the largest in Indiana, and their proximity makes for an intense inter-state rivalry. IU and Purdue have been competing for the Old Oaken Bucket (the trophy awarded to the winner of the matchup) in football since 1925. Because the schools are close, the respective fan bases often frequent the game regardless of the location, making this one of the most exciting games (and biggest parties) during the football season.
The Hoosiers and Illini have a longstanding border battle that isn’t only played out on the hardcourt, but also the gridiron. Illinois holds a 45-23-2 all-time lead, but the Hoosiers will look to narrow that lead soon.
Indiana and Michigan State have been battling for the Old Brass Spittoon since 1950. You’ll always find a good crowd when the Spartans are in town, so don’t miss it when Michigan State comes to town.
Hoosiers Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
The tailgate at Memorial Stadium on game days is an unforgettable experience. If you want to get the most out of your Hoosier game day, then you’ll want to start tailgating early as the lots open up a minimum of five hours before kickoff. The Hoosiers are the pride of the state – outside of the section surrounding Purdue, which means there is an excited atmosphere around Indian football games. The entire state loves to make a weekend trip to Bloomington and with them comes the RV’s, tents, cases of beer, and the undying support of Hoosier nation.
One of the exciting Hoosier game day traditions is The Walk. Approximately two hours before kickoff the Hoosiers make their pre-game walk to the stadium as fans gather and cheer them on. During The Walk, the Marching Hundred and cheerleaders lead the fans in the singing of "Indiana, Our Indiana" and "Indiana Fight!” If you want a chance to get up close and personal with the Hoosiers before the game make sure to check out The Walk.
The Knothole Club for Hoosier fans 13 and younger gives young fans a chance to show their Indiana spirit. The club gives away freebies to youngsters every game, and if you attend every Hoosier home game, then you’ll receive a Knothole All-American t-shirt. The Knothole Club is an excellent way to get young fans indoctrinated into Hoosier football and helps creates a fun atmosphere for the whole family
If the traditional tailgate isn’t your scene, head over to Kirkwood Avenue which is lined with a ton of bars that fill with fans and locals on game day. Hoosier staples such as Crazy Horse and the Irish Lion offer a great pre-game atmosphere for those who prefer heading to the bar on game day.
The front entrance to the north end zone named Glory Plaza offers Hoosier fans the unique opportunity to be a part of Memorial Stadium. Brick pavers inside the plaza can be bought by fans and are used to honor and commemorate the Hoosier nation and their support for the crimson and cream.
Where to tailgate
Student TailgateStudents have their own area in which to tailgate, located at the north end of the grass lot between N. Fess Ave. and N. Woodlawn Ave. The area is open to anyone willing to cross over the threshold of sanity and into a Hoosier domain of dance parties, beer pong, and Purdue bashing.
Kirkwood AvenueIf the traditional tailgate isn’t your scene, head over to Kirkwood Avenue which is lined with a ton of bars that fill with fans and locals on game day. Hoosier staples such as Crazy Horse and the Irish Lion offer a great pre-game atmosphere for those who prefer heading to the bar on game day.
In 2010, the student section at Memorial Stadium was named “The Quarry.” This is where you’ll see most of the school on game days as attending football games at Indiana are a big tradition. These students get rowdy and love cheering their school on to victory, so join in on the fun to get the most out of a crisp, beautiful fall day in Bloomington.
The leading Indiana chant is the Hoo-Hoo-Hoo-Hoosiers chant, which is something you may have heard if you’ve ever watched the Hoosiers compete in basketball on ESPN. The chant is also a staple at football games as well and is most notably done following a timeout in the fourth quarter when the game is on the line. Fans here love the jumping and screaming Hoo-Hoo-Hoo-Hoosiers chant and you will too as it is a fun chant to take part in.
In 2005, head coach Terry Hoeppner had a limestone boulder (that he found) nicknamed “The Rock” installed in the north end zone of the stadium. In a tradition that continues today, IU football players and coaches would touch the Rock before running out onto the field. With the unfortunate passing of Coach Hoeppner, the Rock was renamed Hep’s Rock to commemorate the influence Hoeppner had on the football program at Indiana University
Renovations to the home of the Hoosiers were completed in 2009 and revamped the stadium. The reconstruction of the north end zone included space for classrooms, a weight/training room, Hall of Fame, and expanded seating capacity inside the stadium.
This replica turf field is located in the south end zone of Memorial Stadium and is open to all Hoosier fans thirteen and below. This interactive young fan area also offers freebies for every game attended at Memorial Stadium
Indiana, Our Indiana Indiana, we’re all for you We will fight for the Cream & Crimson, For the glory of Old IU Never daunted, we cannot falter In the battle, we’re tried and true Indiana, Our Indiana Indiana, we’re all for you!
Indiana Fight
Fight for the Cream and Crimson, Loyal sons of our old IU Fight for your Alma Mater, and the school you love so true. Fight for old Indiana, See her victories safely through, GO! IU! FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! For the glory of old IU.
Hail to Old IU
Come and join in song together, Shout with might and main; Our beloved Alma Mater, Sound her praise again. Gloriana Frangipana, E’er to her be true. She’s the pride of Indiana, Hail to Old IU!
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