Colorado and Utah played every year from 1903-1962. However, the rivalry remained dormant until conferences realigned in 2011. The rivalry has been reignited since as both teams currently play annually in the Pac-12 South. Colorado leads the all-time series 31-27-3 and will look to extend their lead when these teams meet next.
These two teams have been playing one another since 1898, but this rivalry picked up when Colorado became competitive under Bill McCartney in the 1980’s. This was validated when Colorado joined Nebraska in the Big 12 Conference in 1996. In 2011, both teams left the Big 12 for other conferences and now play conference games when they used to play each other on Thanksgiving weekend. In 2013, it was announced that the two schools would renew the rivalry from 2018-2024.
Buffaloes Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Colorado Buffaloes tailgate combines the athletic spectacle of Pac-12 football with the relaxing ambiance of the Colorado mountain landscape. The relaxing ambiance helps make tailgating at Colorado more laid back and relaxed than some of their fellow Pac-12 schools where everyone goes all out to get as drunk as possible. The laid back atmosphere also means that Buffaloes fans are some of the friendliest in the nation and more than willing to share food and drinks as long as you have something to offer.
When you arrive in Boulder, the first thing you’ll notice is how dedicated the fans here are to their team. Everywhere you go, you’ll find people adorned in black, silver, and gold as they prepare to cheer on their Buffaloes. Once you hit campus, you’ll see a sea of tents, grills, and other tailgate furnishings signaling that you’ve arrived at the biggest party in town. Don’t be shy and join in on the festivities as you’ll make friends quickly particularly if you are wearing Buffs gear.
Every Friday before game day the festivities get kicked off with the Pearl Street Stampede. This pep rally and parade feature the band, cheerleaders, and the team.The Pearl Street Stampede is a great way to spend a Friday night as it allows you to get into the Buffaloes Gameday spirit a day early.
Ralphie’s Corral offers fun activities for the whole family. If you’re bringing your family to the game, then Ralphie’s Corral is the perfect place to stop by before the game. Here you’ll find inflatable bounce houses, football toss games, beer, concessions, and much more. Not to mention it is your chance to get up close to Ralphie before the game, so make sure to stop by Ralphie’s Corral.
Two and a half hours before the game, the Colorado band and cheerleaders lead the team as they march from the Duane Physics Building to Folsom Field. Arrive early and give the team some extra encouragement before they take the field.
Where to tailgate
Ralphie's CorralRalphie’s Corral offers fun activities for the whole family. If you’re bringing your family to the game, then Ralphie’s Corral is the perfect place to stop by before the game. Here you’ll find inflatable bounce houses, football toss games, beer, concessions, and much more. Not to mention it is your chance to get up close to Ralphie before the game, so make sure to stop by Ralphie’s Corral.
On Campus Tailgate LotsThe on-campus tailgate lots open four hours before kickoff and gives you the opportunity to tailgate alongside fellow fans. These lots are perfect for setting up your tailgate and also are close to Folsom Field.
University Hill Most of the students’ pregame festivities take place at University Hill, so if you’re a student then you’ll most likely head to Folsom Field after having a great time up the Hill.
Buffaloes Stadium Guide
In Game
Colorado football games get off to a quick start out of the gate as Ralphie leads the team onto the field. The unique tradition is one of the most iconic in all of college football and alone will make your trip to Boulder worthwhile. Outside of Ralphie the band also puts on an outstanding show here as their pregame, halftime, and postgame performances are all superb.
When it comes to fan support Colorado has some of the best in the nation as you’ll surely see when attending a game in Boulder. Despite recent struggles, the Buffaloes fans still come out in strong numbers to support their team. The days of winning National Championships and watching greats like Kordell Stewart and Rashaan Salaam may be in the rearview mirror, but you wouldn’t know it if you listened to the crowd’s rousing rendition of the “Go Buffs” chant.
It’s not just the fans or mascot that make attending a game in Boulder a must as the natural beauty of Colorado is worth the trip all on its own. You’ll be able to see the Flatirons from your seat, which will leave you wondering at times if you should be paying attention to the action on the field or simply admiring your surroundings. A Colorado Buffaloes game has so much to offer that it can be overwhelming at times, so take a deep breath and enjoy the wonderful experience that is a Buffaloes football game.
Ralphie is the live mascot for the Colorado Buffaloes football team and widely regarded as one of the best live mascots in sports. The newest Ralphie, Ralphie V, is a majestic beast that is 500 pounds and riles up the crowd by running onto the field before every game. Get to your seats before kickoff, so you don’t miss out on witnessing this one of a kind tradition.
The Ralphie statue offers an excellent photo opportunity for anyone attending a Colorado Buffaloes football game. Snap a picture with this statue before watching her real life counterpart lead the Buffaloes onto the field.
Located just beyond the west stand, the Rocky Mountains, and the Flatirons create a beautiful backdrop to Folsom Field. The scenery provides fans with a truly special experience that cannot be had anywhere else in the country. When attending a Buffaloes game make sure to take in the natural beauty that surrounds and makes Folsom Field one of the most beautiful stadiums in the country.
The Colorado banner in the south end zone is an iconic part of Folsom Field. It also lets everyone know not only where they are, but also who is going to win the game as the Buffaloes are tough to beat at home.
Ralphie isn’t the only one who puts on a great show at a Buffaloes game, the Golden Buffalo Marching Band is a sight to behold as well putting on an outstanding show. One of their signature maneuvers is the formation of the Buffalo logo during the pregame routine. Get to your seat early as you wouldn’t want to miss this excellent game day tradition.
Hail, all hail our alma mater
Ever will our hearts be true
You will live with us forever
Loyal will we be to you
We sing forever your praises
Evermore our love renew
Pledge our whole devotion to you
Dear old CU.
Fight CU!
Played after games
Fight CU down the field,
CU must win
Fight, fight for victory
CU knows no defeat
We’ll roll up a mighty score
Never give in
Shoulder to shoulder
We will fight, fight
Fight, fight, fight!
Go, Buffs! Chant
The crowd really gets riled up during the “Go Buffs” chant, which features some colorful language. If you really want to get into the Colorado gameday spirit then join in on this rowdy chant.
Located in Boulder, Upslope taps into Colorado's active lifestyle by offering superior quality, hand-crafted ales & lagers in cans for the on-the-go beer enthusiast.
Boulder Baked serves comfort food -- soups, pot pies, grilled cheese sandwiches, etc. -- and desserts in the evenings, because that's when you want them.
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