College football traditions ranked ahead of 2026 season

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 9:11 AM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

College football traditions ranked ahead of 2026 season
Summary

With the 2026-27 season approaching in 80 days, Yahoo Sports has ranked the top 10 college football traditions. Leading the list is Penn State's White Out game, a tradition that has been a highlight since 2004. Other notable traditions include the Cowbell at Mississippi State, the 12th Man at Texas A&M, and Iowa's Hawkeye Wave, which supports pediatric patients at nearby hospitals. Virginia Tech's electrifying entrance featuring 'Enter Sandman' and Clemson's Howard's Rock also made the list. Each of these traditions adds to the atmosphere and cultural heritage surrounding college football games across the nation.

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  • Top tradition is Penn State's White Out game, known since 2004.
  • Mississippi State's Cowbell tradition started with an on-field cow.
  • Iowa's Hawkeye Wave includes fans waving to hospital patients.
  • Virginia Tech's 'Enter Sandman' has been a staple for 25 years.
  • Clemson's Howard's Rock is rubbed by players before games.
Latest Updates
  • 9:11 AMYahoo SportsRanking the 10 greatest traditions in college football
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Which college football tradition is the best in the country? We ranked the top 10 ahead of the 2026 season.

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