Tailgating is a Nebraska football tradition, so here’s a handy guide to set up a great one for Nebraska’s opening week game against Arkansas State.
It’s finally here! Time to watch the Sea of Red flood the streets of Lincoln on Nebraska football gameday. It’s the only good news with the word flood in it right now. Stay strong Houston! Saturday Cornhusker football starts its season with a night game (kickoff at 7:00 pm) and if you’re watching from home, check out BTN for the best seat outside the stadium.
Arkansas State brings a team to town that is focused and won’t be an easy walk in the park. They have a strong offensive line and a significant pass rush. Nevertheless, I’m looking forward to Husker QB, Tanner Lee getting some long awaited snaps (and touchdowns).
I’ll never forget Nathan Gerry saying “you guys are gonna lose your mind next year” but in a good way when asked about then scout QB Lee. I don’t mind that he’s good cover page material either!
A long day of Husker tailgating awaits and it’s the best way to catch up with friends before the game. It’s always key to pace yourself because a long day in the sun (forecast says 85) with cold beverages in your hand can sneak up on you. This week’s menu will feature some pastry type treats that are good warm, or cold, plus the bread helps you “maintain your entertainment.”
Pillsbury has an excellent website and lots of variations of appetizers. I tweak the recipes to fit my own tastes. This week I’m in the mood for some Husker beef! For my Gameday wraps you will need:
1 can of pillsbury dough (I use the sheet kind)
2 portions of frozen steak sandwich beef
1/2 cup chive and onion cream cheese spread
1 small Vidalia onion chopped
Brown the beef and onions until tender, then drain the grease and pat dry with a paper towel. Heat the oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread out the dough onto the paper until you have a nice rectangle.
Nebraska Cornhuskers Football
Spread the cream cheese across the dough, then spread the meat and onion mixture on top. Using the long side, tightly roll up the dough and pinch the edge sealed. Then cut into 1 inch pieces. They should look like a pinwheel. Place 2 inches apart and bake for 14 to 16 minutes until brown. Let them cool before you devour them.
These appetizers will make any hungry Husker happy. Try saying that fast 5 times!
DRINK MENU:
In doing some research, there is actually a drink called a BIG BAD WOLF. I don’t think Arky State is BIG and BAD really but it was an interesting recipe and I’ll be curious to hear what you think if you are brave enough to try it.
In a shaker, pour 1/3 Curacao and 2/3 Apricot nectar. Drop in 1 egg yolk and a spoon of grenadine. Shake well with cracked ice and strain. I’m all good with things until you get the yolk in there. But I’m also a fan of a little adventure.
If you want some jello shot adventures, my Husker inspiration came from a “Wolf (Howlin’) recipe.” I don’t quite understand the Wolf part but then again I don’t understand the 3-4 defense of Coach Diaco yet either. Fortunately for us ladies, he’s entertaining and some sideline eye candy so I’m sure I’ll pick it up by mid season.
I’m use cherry jello for the Husker red color, vodka, triple sec, and white creme de menthe. Heat 1 cup of water and add the packet of cherry jello. Stir in 2 oz vodka, 2 oz white cream de menthe and 3 oz of blue curacao. Pour into shot cups and chill.
Things I’m looking forward to this year is watching my favorite punt returner take a few to da house! Lots of good chatter about the Big Red special teams group. Also intriguing this season will be defensive tackle Deontre Thomas, a freshman who is expected to contribute this year. He won’t be hard to miss when his 6′ 3″ and 280 pound frame gets “explosive” on the field.
I’m looking forward to watching Coach Diaco’s Husker Blackshirts do some things on the field. The talk of “ball disruption” reminds me of when Pelini’s defenses were taking the ball away and scoring. Off the field I’m looking forward to hugs, laughter and good times. Make sure to thank your hosts and hostesses and get home safely.
Welcome back Husker football season and GO BIG RED!