May we have a discussion about stadium atmospheres? How do you rank them, include yours.

It goes without saying, especially in this LSU centric community, that LSU will win the vote as the most intimidating place to play, especially at night. (But I've been to a night game there, in the rain, when they were not winning ... SC won, the LSU fans were as subdued as I've ever seen them that night.) Coach Dietzel used to love to tell stories about that place at night though. I loved that man. I miss him, I truly do. He loved LSU. Anyways ...

I've been to at least one game in every stadium in the league now. This year Oklahoma was a day game, but I've been to Texas several times over the decades (Mom's family are mostly Longhorns) including several night games there.

It's safe to say that any number of our places are great places to see a game and experience an outstanding atmosphere at night when we're winning.

Between the Hedges is impressive at night ... been to quite a few of those. Won a couple.

The Swamp used to be outragious at night.

Neyland, in their heyday was as loud and rambunctious as any.

Bama ... I guess it all depends. Their student section may have been a little spoiled the few times I've been there.

Auburn ... been there four times but that 2010 game was lit! Great place to see a game at night.

Believe it or not, Kentucky, when they are winning ... great night time environment.

Same thing for Arkansas.

Miss State, cowbells clanging. My favorite night game there was the first game played, in the country, after 9/11. Jackie Sherrill's daughter sang the national anthem. Been to a few there.

Vaught-Hemmingway. Second most games, next to SC's, that I've attended have been in Oxford. Started as a kid when Coach Vaught was still there. Came back many times when Coach Brewer was there. Actually, almost forgot '74 when Ken Cooper was there. I was actually there and living in Olive Branch, (Maywood), for the Chuckie game ... I'll never forget it.

Been to A&M twice now. It's fun watching the cadets do their thing ... you'll laugh, a lot.

Missouri, at night, when they're winning, is a good atmosphere. Especially when they're winning although I've always noted all the Chiefs and Rams attire at those games ... unlike the rest of the conference. Less Rams these days I suspect ... haven't been back in a few years.

Vandy ... nah. Although I hear they're planning to pack their place this Saturday afternoon, which will be interesting.

Yet one thing has remained consistent, no matter winning or losing, no matter the weather, no matter the conference or independence ... it's just always been this way and I've never been able to put a finger on it but it is undeniable. I think it boils down to pride and determination and loyalty.

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