Clarksville, Tennessee: – It’s football season in Clarksville and the air is full of excitement! Tailgate Alley is the gathering place before an Austin Peay State University football game where students, alumni and fans come together to celebrate their beloved Governors.

As soon as Tailgate Alley opens, a sea of ​​tents and grills appears in the parking lot between Fortera Stadium and Dunn Center. The smell of sizzling burgers, hot dogs and bratwursts fills the air, enticing every passerby. Fans stroll past food trucks like Kadi’s Tacos & More, Windy City Vibes and Kelly’s Big Burger & BBQ, all offering their own delicious specialties. From the taste of perfectly grilled chicken to crispy BBQ-flavored fries, there’s something for every tailgater to enjoy.

Laughter erupts as groups engage in friendly outdoor games like cornhole and ladder toss. Music blares from all directions, creating a rhythm that keeps the energy high. A live DJ cranks up the music, and soon fans are showing off their moves and joining together in spontaneous line dances that ripple through the crowd.

“We’re here today to support Austin Peay. We’re serving barbecue from Kelly’s Big Burger food truck. We’re showcasing BBQ cooked on the new fire pit behind the restaurant on Riverside Drive. We’ve got nachos, brisket and pork. We’ve had families come in groups and individuals,” said Daniel Fuller of Kelly’s Big Burger & BBQ. “It’s been crazy out here today. Nice and cool, but also nice and civil, just beautiful. Everyone’s mingling and having fun.”

With about three hours to go, the atmosphere reaches its peak as the Governor’s Own Marching Band plays its tunes, announcing the arrival of the football team. The cheerleaders and national award-winning mascot join in and lead the team down Tailgate Alley. It’s a moment of anticipation and pride, and fans clap, chant and wave banners as the Governors march to the stadium, ready for battle.

“We’re here to support Austin Peay. Fortera is a sponsor of Austin Peay athletics. We’re here to visit fans and support the Austin Peay football team,” said Ryan Wyndham, vice president of marketing for Fortera Bank. “Today went great. It’s a good crowd and we’re looking forward to the game tonight.”

As the clock counts down to kickoff, Tailgate Alley is starting to quiet down and fans are being encouraged to enter the stadium for the big showdown. Austin Peay State University football takes on Alabama A&M this week and the stakes are high. It’s also Future Govs & Community Heroes Day presented by Domino’s. The stands will be packed, the cheers will be loud and the Governors are ready to defend their home game under the lights.

“Tailgating today was great. So many great and enthusiastic people cheered on the Austin Peay football team. We are glad football is back and we are excited to see the Govs bring home the conference championship again this season,” said Jacob Knight, assistant director of alumni engagement.

Whether you’re dancing with friends, enjoying game day food, or soaking up the electric atmosphere, a tailgating event at an APSU football game is an experience like no other. As the game approaches, fans flock to the stadium, united in their passion for the red and white colors. It’s time to cheer the Governors to victory!

The Austin Peay State University football team will face Alabama A&M on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at Fortera Stadium.

2024 APSU Home Football Games

• September 21 against Alabama A&M
• September 28th against Southern Utah (Govs Preview Day, register here!)
• October 26 against Tarleton State (home game)
• November 9th against Abilene Christian
• November 16 against Eastern Kentucky
• November 23 against UT Chattanooga

Single game and season tickets can be purchased online at www.LetsGoPeay.com/BuyTickets or by calling the box office at 931.221.PEAY (7329).

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