RedZone, band have work to do when it comes to cheering

Sure, they mean well, but doing well doesn’t cut it when cheering at Fresno State football games.

The Fresno State marching band, students and just other people that follow along continue to display their lack of knowledge when it comes to cheering at the football games.

With the No. 20 Oregon Ducks coming to Bulldog Stadium Saturday, now is as good a time as any to learn the rules of cheering at Bulldog Stadium. Leaders of the RedZone, senior members of the band, other people who are clueless — take note:

1. It’s no secret that fans of the Bulldogs are fond of “The Wave.” After all, those same fans are known as “The Red Wave.” Sorry Utah, we had it first. With that being said, the wave must only be started on defense. The distraction of a large group of moving people yelling and moving around is the last thing the Bulldogs offense needs and the first thing the opposing team’s does need. Trust me, it makes a difference. To summarize — DO THE WAVE ON DEFENSE ONLY!

2. It’s fourth and one for the Fresno State offense. It seems to be a disease throughout the stadium to stand and cheer loudly, as if it is helping the team convert. This is also a fallacy. The idea here is to be as quiet as possible so as to allow the members of the offense to hear the snap count, or perhaps draw the defense offsides. If you went to the last game, you would have seen the Bulldogs players directing the fans to quiet for this exact reason. Standing is okay on offense, just don’t cheer, save it for the defensive stand. To summarize — QUIET ON OFFENSE — ALWAYS!

3. Yes, third down thunder is exciting, and Bulldogs fans do a good job of getting loud for it. But why has everyone forgotten about first and second down? Third down thunder means get extra loud, not just get loud every once in a while. Fresno State players will reward you with adrenaline filled hits and plenty of stout defensive stands. Just make noise of any kind. To summarize — BE AS LOUD AS POSSIBLE AT ALL TIMES ON DEFENSE!

4. Lastly, clap along and participate in the chants with the band while it performs timeless classics throughout the game. Every song has a rhythm to clap along to, and the sound of 41,000 fans chanting as one will run chills through your spine.

The last piece of the puzzle is showing up on time. Nothing is cooler than a full house at kickoff time.

Remember, if you’re early, you’re on time, if you’re on time, you’re late.

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