As we move deeper into autumn, the term "football weather" is frequently heard. In many cases, it is used to define unpleasant conditions that devoted fans must endure, including torrential rains in the Deep South, frigid temperatures across the Northern Plains or blowing snow in the Mountain States. More often, however, it refers to crisp, breezy days, the air faintly scented with barbecue fumes or wood smoke.
Today, it is the latter that envelops Columbia, Missouri, where the Tigers host the Kentucky Wildcats. Not heading to the game, I'll catch parts of it and other contests on the TV but find it impossible to remain glued to the couch on such a beautiful autumn day, our first chilly afternoon of the season. After all, there are leaves to rake, feeders to fill and fresh air to inhale.
Like many half-hearted fans, I enjoy football primarily due to the season in which its games take place. In the American Heartland, football weather is synonymous with the glorious days of autumn, with their invigorating air, colorful foliage, active wildlife and spectacular flocks of migrants. Good for contests on the gridiron, the conditions are even better for outdoor exploration.
