From the eyes of a UF student: Getting set

My plans are finally set. I talked to one of my equally obsessed Gator friends who just got back to Gainesville, and we’ve planned the day. He gets out of class about 2 p.m. Unfortunately, I have a class until about 4 tomorrow afternoon. I have yet to decide if I’m going. I’m not sure if four hours is enough preparation time.

When we’re both out, I’m going to pick up steaks and hamburgers and then head to his house. He and his roommates are throwing a party, which will begin an hour before the game, but I plan on claiming my spot in front of the big-screen TV as early as possible. We’re going to cook out before the party starts and try to get all the pre-game jitters out. If I’m this nervous the day before the game, it makes me wonder how the players feel.

My friend's house is just off campus, so depending on the outcome I’ll either find a corner of the room to cry in or head down to University Avenue to soak in the insanity (I’ll let you figure out which outcome will produce which result).

Thousands of students are watching the game in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, which is where the basketball and volleyball teams play. The O’Connell Center is right next to University Avenue. If we win, I can only imagine the scene.

I’ll be checking in a few times tomorrow from campus to describe the happenings. It’s only 26 hours away, folks. Practice the Chomp. Rehearse the school song. Put on your favorite Gator T-shirt. Kiss a picture of Urban Meyer. Get excited. It’s coming.