The rivalry between Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston State is the second longest continuous running rivalry in the FCS dating back to 1923. In 2007, a 21-pound cedar trophy depicting pistols and a tombstone was added to the rivalry. Head down to Houston to watch the Lumberjacks take on the Bearkats in the annual Battle of the Piney Woods.

Chief Caddo

Rival Team: Northwestern State Demons

The winner of the annual rivalry game between Stephen F. Austin and Northwestern State takes home Chief Caddo as well as bragging rights. The rivalry began in 1957 and Northwestern State holds a 30-20-2 lead in the all-time series. Come on out and cheer on the Lumberjacks as they look to close the gap on their longtime rivals this season.

Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Stephen F. Austin offers open tailgating that starts at 8 am regardless of game time giving you plenty of room and time to tailgate. As a result of SFA’s lax tailgate rules, you’ll find a vibrant tailgate atmosphere around Homer Bryce Stadium on game days. Everywhere you look, you’ll see SFA fans dressed head to toe in purple and white tailgating and having fun.

If you want to get the most out of your tailgating experience, then make sure to check out Alumni Corner. Alumni Corner is located on the corner of Hayter St. and Raguet St and features everything needed for a good tailgate party. Here you’ll be able to enjoy food, live music, games, and even a Kids Zone. Those of you who don’t want to set up a tailgate party yourself will without a doubt want to stop by Alumni Corner before the game.

You’ll have a lot of fun tailgating before a Lumberjacks game, so arrive early and join in the fun to make the most out of your trip to Stephen F. Austin.

Traditions

Alumni Corner

Whether you’re an SFA alumni or not, you’ll want to check out Alumni Corner at the intersection of Hayter St. and Raguet St. Alumni Corner features live music, food games, and a Kid Zone making it a great place to hang out before the game. Alumni Corner is free for SFA Alumni Association members and $15 for non-members.

Homecoming

There is no better time to visit Stephen F. Austin than homecoming. Homecoming features a ton of traditions throughout the week including a bonfire, parade, and much more, so don’t miss your chance to take part in all the great traditions leading up to the game.

Where to tailgate

Ag Pond

If you want to be at the center of the tailgating action at Stephen F. Austin, then make sure to set up shop near Ag Pond. Here you’ll find some of the biggest and best tailgates on game days making it an excellent place to tailgate before the game.

Grassy Areas near Homer Bryce Stadium

Thanks to Stephen F. Austin’s open tailgating policy you can tailgate in any grassy area within the tailgate footprint. Tailgating opens at 8 am every game day and are first come first serve, so arrive early to secure your spot at Stephen F. Austin.

Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks Stadium Guide

In Game

Texans love football, and it’s no different at Stephen F. Austin where the Lumberjack football game is a big part of university life. Students and alumni come out in good numbers to support the team, and you’ll find plenty of traditions surrounding game day creating a festive atmosphere.

One of the best traditions at a Lumberjacks game is Ole Cotton. Following every Jacks score, Ole Cotton is fired off by the SFA ROTC. The fans go wild when Ole Cotton is fired, and there is nothing better than watching the Jacks run up the score as the sound of Ole Cotton rings in the background.

The Lumberjack Marching Band and the spirit squads are also a big part of game days as well. The marching band’s pregame and halftime shows are quite a sight to behold, and you won’t want to miss either the dance team or cheerleading squad when they take the field.

Finally, it’s like they say everything’s bigger in Texas. Homer Bryce Stadium is home to the third-largest scoreboard in the FCS, so enjoy having an excellent view of all the replays no matter where you’re sitting.

Plan your trip to Stephen F. Austin today as it’s home to a fantastic game day experience that any FCS football fan would enjoy.

Things to check out

Ole Cotton

After every Lumberjacks score, the SFA ROTC fires off Ole Cotton. Rejoice in the sound of Ole Cotton as the SFA runs up the score on their opposition.

Scoreboard

Homer Bryce Stadium is home to the third-largest scoreboard in the FCS at 80 ft by 36 ft. Enjoy the replays on the videoboard as no matter where you are in the stadium you’ll have an excellent view.

Purple Haze Association

If you want to sit with the rowdiest fans at any Lumberjacks game, then the Purple Haze Association is the place for you. The students go all out to support the team on game days and create an intense atmosphere making it difficult for opponents to come away from Homer Bryce Stadium with a victory.

Lumberjack Marching Band

The Lumberjack Marching Band is a big part of every SFA football game and puts on quite the show. The band’s pregame and halftime shows are both outstanding, so make sure to catch both of them during your trip to Homer Bryce Stadium.

Dance and Cheerleading Squads

The SFA dance and cheerleading squads keep the crowd in the game even when things aren’t going the Jacks way. The cheerleaders will pump you up with their routines while the dance team dazzles you with their performances. Enjoy both talented spirit groups at the game.

‹ Southern Utah Thunderbirds

Stetson Hatters ›