The Beehive Bowl between Southern Utah and Weber State is one of the Thunderbirds’ biggest game of the year. The rivalry dates back to 1984 and in 2011 became a yearly rivalry with the Thunderbirds move to the Big Sky Conference. The Wildcats lead the all-time series 16-7, but you won’t want to miss the next Beehive Bowl, so make sure to be in attendance when Southern Utah takes on Weber State.

Grand Canyon Rivalry

Rival Team: Northern Arizona Lumberjacks

The winner of the annual rivalry matchup between Northern Arizona and Southern Utah takes home the Grand Canyon Trophy. The two Big Sky Conference rivals first met in 1982, and they have played every year since 2008. Don’t miss it when the Thunderbirds square off with the Lumberjacks as there is always a lot on the line.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Southern Utah University and the Thunderbird Club have put together a fun tailgating experience that provides you with just about everything you could want at a tailgate. The Thunderbird Village is an excellent place to hang out before the game offers live music, performances by the SUU Marching Band and Spirit Squads, tailgate games, and more. If you’re looking for pregame entertainment, then make sure to stop by the Thunderbird Village before the game.

In addition to a fun fan zone and performances by Southern Utah spirit groups, you’ll also be able to grill out with friends before the game. Southern Utah offers plenty of space to park, and there is even a visitor’s tailgating area, so if you’re a fan of the away team you’ll be able to meet lots of fellow fans.

It may not be The Grove, but tailgating at Southern Utah is a fun experience that just about anyone would enjoy. Arrive early and take advantage of the fun tailgating atmosphere Southern Utah offers.

Traditions

Thunderbird Village

Enjoy live music, performances by the SUU Marching Band and Spirit Squads, tailgate games, and much more at Thunderbird Village. Thunderbird Village is your pregame entertainment destination and is a fun place to hang out before the game no matter what your age.

Thundercharge

Take part in the Thundercharge, which takes place 15 minutes before kickoff. The Thundercharge invites fans to line the team entrance at the southwest corner of the stadium before the game. Make sure to be a part of the Thundercharge as it’s an excellent way for you to get up close to your favorite players before the game.

Where to tailgate

Thunderbird Club Tailgate

Join the Thunderbird Club Tailgate, which starts two hours before the game. The tailgate is open to the public and is a great way to get into the Thunderbirds spirit before the game.

Lot F4

Lot F4 is the main tailgate lot for Southern Utah fans, so get here early and claim your spot before the game to tailgate with fellow Thunderbirds fans.

Lot G5

If you’re a fan of the visiting team Lot G5 is the pre-game destination for you. Lot G5 is the designated visitor's lot making it the perfect place to meet fans of the away team.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds Stadium Guide

In Game

Eccles Coliseum is a beautiful place to take in a game as you’ll have a fantastic view of the beautiful Red Mountains as well as the beautiful Southern Utah campus. The stadium also provides fans with plenty of unique architecture as the south end zone’s design commemorates the Olympic Torch passing through Cedar City and is quite the sight to behold.

In addition to a beautiful view, Southern Utah is home to some wonderful fans. Southern Utah may not be the biggest program, but that doesn’t’ mean the fans that show up aren’t some of the most die hard fans out there. The stands at Eccles Coliseum are typically packed full of Thunderbirds fans, none more so than the student section.

Finally, the Southern Utah spirit groups and the band put on a great show. The band will keep you entertained with their musical performance throughout the game, and you won’t want to miss the halftime performance by the SUU Waukeenyans. The Thunderbirds mascot Thor is also a big part of the show as well, so keep an eye out for him as you never know what he’ll do next.

A Southern Utah Thunderbirds game is a fun experience for any FCS football fan, so don’t hesitate to take a trip to Cedar City, Utah.

Things to check out

Olympic Torch Memorial

Stop by and see the Olympic Torch Memorial in the south end zone. The memorial is a must-see for any sports fans and is a unique part of Eccles Coliseum.

SUU Marching Band

The SUU Marching Band provides a great atmosphere at Thunderbirds football games. All throughout the game, you’ll hear the band as they try to rile up the crowd with their tunes.

SUU Waukeenyans

Don’t leave your seat at halftime as the SUU Waukeenyans put on a fantastic performance. The dance team’s halftime performance is one of the biggest parts of the game making it a must-see for anyone taking in a Thunderbirds game.

Spirit Squad

Join the Spirit Squad as they pump up the team with their cheers and chants. The Spirit Squad performs a variety of stunts and chants that will bring you to your feet throughout the game.

Thor

Thor the Thunderbirds mascot is one of the most popular parts of the game. Fans young and old enjoy Thor’s shenanigans, so keep an eye out for him during your trip to Cedar City.

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