Marshall and Ohio are only separated by 80 miles, which has led to the development of an intense rivalry between these two schools. The rivalry dates back to 1905 when Marshall shutout Ohio 6-0. The winner when these two meet walks away with the bell, as well as regional bragging rights. Marshall trails the all-time series 20-33-6 but has gotten the best of the Bobcats in recent times having won the majority of the meetings since 1980.
The rivalry between Marshall and West Virginia is a very one-sided one with the Mountaineers having won all 12 meetings between these two instate rivals. That, however, doesn’t stop the game from being one of the most anticipated when it appears on Marshall’s schedule, as Thundering Herd fans come out in droves to watch their team play for state supremacy.
The Thundering Herd and Pirates share a friendly rivalry that stems from the Marshall plane crash in 1970. The crash happened when Marshall was on their way back home from a 17-14 loss to the Pirates, and the two teams have bonded over Marshall’s loss ever since. The Pirates hold a 10-5 all-time lead, although the Thundering Herd won the last meeting 59-28.
Thundering Herd Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
The atmosphere surrounding the tailgate at Marshall is just electric. The town is flooded with green making it looks like St. Patrick’s day in the streets. The tailgate will get you ripped and roaring as fast as the blink of an eye; it doesn’t matter if you are even near the stadium you’ll find groups of people having a great time all throughout Huntington on game days.
Despite being a smaller program, Marshall has had a lot of success on the field over the last few decades, and the tailgating has kept up the pace right alongside it. You’ll find one of the better tailgate atmospheres Conference USA as everyone starts tailgating bright and early with the lots around the stadium opening six hours before kickoff.
The parking lots are the best spot to be, you’ll find a variety of drinking games, along with cornhole and all the grilling you can handle. People set up some large campsites in the parking lots outside the stadium as fans come from all over the area. Thundering Herd games are major social events as people come in herds to see their favorite team on Saturday.After the game ends, be sure to head over to Fat Patty’s to watch the rest of the always exciting college football slate. While you’re there, make sure to grab one of their signature burgers. If you’re not in the mood for a burger, head over to Black Sheep Burrito and Brews to add some Mexican flair to your day.
After the game ends, be sure to head over to Fat Patty’s to watch the rest of the always exciting college football slate. While you’re there, make sure to grab one of their signature burgers. If you’re not in the mood for a burger, head over to Black Sheep Burrito and Brews to add some Mexican flair to your day.
While you’re on the Marshall campus be sure to take a stroll by the memorial fountain which commemorates the lives lost in the plane crash carrying the Marshall football team. The tragedy united the Marshall students and fan base and played an integral part in the fanbase and program being where it is today.
If you’re looking to get into the Marshall gameday spirit, then make sure to take in the Thunder Walk. The Thunder Walk allows fans to give the Thundering Herd players and coaches some last minute support before they enter the stadium, so make sure to stop by and check it out.
Located on the front of the stadium; the bronze memorial pays remembrance to the Marshall players and coaches who lost their lives in the 1970 plane crash. Stop by and pay your respects to one of the worst sports-related tragedies in US history.
West LotThe West Lot outside of Joan C. Edwards is the place to be on Thundering Herd gamedays. Here you’ll find the most diehard Thundering Herd fans around grilling, drinking, and having fun. If you want to get into a tradition that unites the entire town of Huntington, then make sure to tailgate before a Marshall game.
Lot Between 16th and 18th StreetIf you’re looking to tailgate with Marshall students, then set up shop in this lot as it's where the majority of the students park.
Dolen LotVisitors tend to tailgate in the Dolen Lot, which is located near the visitor’s side of the stadium and across from the Marshall softball field. If you’re looking to tailgate with the visiting team’s fans then get your spot in the Dolen Lot.
Thundering Herd Stadium Guide
In Game
The atmosphere at Marshall is incredible, just based on the fan support alone it’s hard to tell if you can call this a small school when the fanbase is so strong for every home game. Marshall is located on the banks of the Ohio River in West Virginia and brings in the fans from all over on Saturdays. The fans are covered in green from head to toe and chanting out their signature WE ARE MARSHALL chant.
The stadium’s layout enhances the crowd noise, as it’s horseshoe shape helps keep in the noise and echoes throughout. The northern end zone is an especially great to sit as it puts you in the heart of the action. Sitting here allows you to be right next to where the team bursts onto the field before the game.
The Marshall band and cheerleaders also add to the gameday excitement as they provide some great in-game entertainment throughout the game. The band’s electrifying pregame and halftime performance riles up the crowd, while the cheerleaders’ constant enthusiasm ensure that everyone stays loud throughout the game.The love and devotion Marshall fans have for their team creates an unforgettable experience that will have you wanting to come back soon, so plan your trip to Marshall today.
The love and devotion Marshall fans have for their team creates an unforgettable experience that will have you wanting to come back soon, so plan your trip to Marshall today.
The Marching Thunder are the official Marshall marching band. They provide excellent entertainment throughout the game, as not only are their pregame and halftime shows legendary, but they also do a superb job of pumping up the crowd at key moments in the game.
Marco is the official mascot of Marshall athletics and performs at every Marshall home game. He has been patrolling the sidelines since 1954 and has had many different looks. However, regardless of how his look has evolved over the years, he has always been at the games cheering on the Thundering Herd.
The cheerleaders at Marshall play a significant part in the gameday experience and tradition. One of the most famous Marshall cheerleading traditions is that after every Marshall player scores, a male cheerleader will press a female cheerleader over his head as many times as the Thundering Herd has scored points. The tradition gets everyone pumped as the crowd goes wild during this routine.
Marshall fans celebrate every Thundering Herd score by doing the Thunder Clap. To join in on this excellent tradition, all you have to do is raise your hands over your head and clap them together. Fans clap once for every point the Thundering Herd have scored up until that point in the game.
We are the sons of Marshall Sons of the great John Marshall Year after year we go to Marshall U. Cheering for our team and gaining knowledge, too Proudly we wear our colors Love and loyalty we share Sure from far and near You’ll always hear The wearing of the green For it’s the Green and White of Marshall U.
From the beginning, Fat Patty's has offered a number of specialty burgers and sandwiches, wings, appetizers, salads, wraps, as well as steak and chicken dinners.
We love Steaks, Burgers and Brews featuring the areas largest selection of craft beer in the tristate with 48 beers on tap in over 80 varieties in all.
If you’re looking for a unique place to eat and relax, Black Sheep Burrito & Brews is a place to separate from the flock and identify yourself however you please.
With a lively, yet relaxed atmosphere this is the perfect place to come and relax, have a drink and enjoy some delicious food while watching your favorite sporting event.
Celebrating 18 years of Love and Weenies, Hillbilly Hot Dogs serves gourmet hot dogs, burgers, vegetarian, vegan and more with quirky, down-home charm.
Watch video
