UNI and NDSU are two of the most successful programs in the Missouri Valley Football Conference making every matchup in this rivalry a must-see. The two schools have won at least a share of last eight conference titles making every matchup between these two a can’t miss for FCS football fans.

Northern Iowa Panthers vs Southern Illinois Salukis

Rival Team: Southern Illinois Salukis

The UNI-Southern Illinois rivalry spans across several sports although few are as important as football. The Panthers and their fans hate losing to the Salukis, so get your tickets when Southern Illinois comes to town.

Northern Iowa vs Iowa State and Iowa

Rival Team: Iowa State Cyclones and Iowa Hawkeyes

While the games may never take place at the UNI-Dome, Panthers fans love the opportunity to knock off in-state FBS schools Iowa and Iowa State. It’s always a thrilling game when the Panthers take on the big boys in the state, so don’t miss it when UNI takes on Iowa or Iowa State.

Northern Iowa Panthers Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

UNI not only allows tailgating it encourages it, and as a result, you’ll see lots of purple and gold outside the UNI-Dome on Saturdays in the fall. Panthers fans from all over the state come to Cedar Falls on game days to get down with other fans before the game and celebrate. You’ll see tents, grills, and coolers all over campus before games, so get here early and join in the fun.

Tailgating at UNI starts six hours before kickoff giving you plenty of time to enjoy yourself before the game. Those of you who are looking to get the most out of your tailgating experience will want to arrive early as the lots around the stadium fill up quickly.

Additionally, if you’re attending the homecoming game make sure to attend the parade in the morning. The parade is a fun way to get into the game day spirit as well as the perfect way to kick off your Panthers tailgate.

Tailgating is a big part of the football culture at UNI making it a must for anyone looking to get the full Panthers game day experience.

Traditions

Homecoming Parade

If you’re returning to UNI for homecoming, then make sure to take in the homecoming parade before the game. The parade is a fantastic way to show off your UNI pride and get into the Panthers spirit before the game, so don’t miss it.

Where to tailgate

Open Tailgating Lots

Except for the west lot, part of the south lot, and the WRC metered lot, all other lots are first come first served when it comes to tailgating. Arrive early, and set up for a full day of tailgating before a UNI game.

Northern Iowa Panthers Stadium Guide

In Game

UNI fans are some of the most passionate fans in the FCS making a trip to Cedar Falls, Iowa a must for any college football fan. You’ll witness the incredible fan support before the game even starts as everyone in attendance is in their seat before kickoff ready to cheer on the Panthers. You also won’t want to miss your opportunity to take part in UNI’s famous interlude dance, so come prepared to get down during your visit to UNI.

The fans aren’t the only thing that makes attending a UNI game a fantastic experience. The band and spirit groups put on quite the show. The marching band keeps the crowd engaged with their tunes, and the cheerleaders will get everyone on their feet at key times throughout the game.

The football at UNI is pretty good too. The Panthers are one of the most successful teams in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, having won 33 conference championships and producing great players like Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner. UNI is typically near the top of conference meaning just about every Panthers game has playoff implications.

There are few better places to take in an FCS football game than the UNI-Dome, so start planning your trip to Cedar Falls today.

Things to check out

Athletic Hall of Fame

The UNI Athletic Hall of Fame between the McLeod Center and the UNI-Dome is a must-see for any college sports fan. The Hall of Fame contains a slew of trophies won by the Panthers over the years including an ESPY Award won by the school in 2010 for “Best Upset.” Take some time before the game to see the Hall of Fame and all it has to offer.

Student Section

The student section at a UNI football game is phenomenal as it's packed to the gills with die hard fans. UNI students go all out to support their team, and they even started the famous Interlude Dance back in 2011. Enjoy the atmosphere provided by the UNI students during your trip to Cedar Rapids.

Panther Marching Band

The students aren’t the only ones who make lots of noise at Panthers games. The Panthers Marching Band also puts on an incredible display that you won’t soon forget. Whether you like traditional school songs or modern pop songs, you’ll enjoy the marching band’s performance at a UNI game.

Cheerleaders

The UNI cheerleaders cheers and routines are a big part of any Panthers football game, so join in the cheers to show off your UNI pride. Stay in your seat when the cheerleaders take the field as you won’t want to miss these talented performers.

TC and TK

If you see either of the Panthers mascots around the stadium, make sure to give them a high five. TC and TK get into all kinds of antics during the game and are a must-see for anyone in attendance.

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