Raise your hand if you've ever watched a college football matchup without snacks. That's what we thought. Jerky is a game day staple - but have you considered WHAT jerky you'll be eating when your team is playing their rivals? 

We've matched up some of our favorite jerky snacks with college mascots. Perhaps you'll want to chow down on the opposing team's mascot - or maybe your good luck charm is sticking with meat from your own team. Whatever your style - we've got 6 pairings to get you through your next game day house party! 

Colorado Buffaloes

The CU Buffaloes came from behind and squeaked past the Oregon State Beavers last week, and they're up against Washington State this Saturday in what could be a nail-biter after they finally broke their losing streak. Instead of munching those fingernails, CU fans should pick up some of the best Buffalo Jerky out there. Our Jackson Hole Buffalo Jerky is 100% buffalo - no fillers. Which is exactly what you want from your team. 

Florida Gators

With a 3-3 record following their loss to the Aggies, and fans blaming offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, a bye week might be just what this team needs. And it gives Coach McElwain some time to hit the recruiting trail.  Perhaps he should stock up on Alligator jerky to pass out to potential recruits!

Oregon Ducks

The Ducks were going strong this year until QB Justin Herbert broke his collarbone in their win over Cal. With a true freshman, Braxton Burmeister as their only hope for redemption and a shot at being bowl elligible, the Oregon staff is doing everything in it's power to get the replacement QB up to speed. Maybe they should try feeding him Duck jerky. If it quacks like a duck....

Arkansas Razorbacks

More QB struggles abound in Arkansas, where Austin Allen's shoulder injury seems to be keeping him down. The team is placing their hopes in Cole Kelly, and crossing their fingers Allen will be back to go whole hog in their 64th matchup against Ole Miss on October 28th. And we're pretty sure our Wild Boar sausage could bring anyone back to health. Or at least feed the guests watching the game at your place - and keep 'em from yelling (too much) at the screen.

Texas Longhorns

After a devestatingly close game (and ultimately loss) against OU, the Longhorns needed something to spice things up a bit. And wouldn't you know - that's when DeShon Elliott was named Sporting News' Midseason All-American. Still holding on to their #2 ranking in the Big 12, they just need keep bringing the heat - kinda' like our Hot & Spicy Beef Jerky. Bevo would approve. 

Akron Zips 

Maybe the Mid American Conference isn't on your radar, but if the University of Akron is bold enough to make their mascot a Kangaroo, perhaps it should be. They're ranked #1 in MAC East and fresh off a post-flooding rainy day win vs Western Michigan. And did we say their mascot is a KANGAROO? That's #winning in our book. Fans should go bonkers over our exotic Kangaroo jerky! 

Regardless of which team you root for (or against) - we can all agree on one thing. Jerky and football are a winning combination. 

Have plans to be Irish for a day on March 17th this year? Whether you’re determined to wear (and drink) green, or avoiding the St. Patrick’s Day party, we’ve got some beer and jerky pairings we think you’ll love!

Go green or go home:

We’re not sure where the green beer tradition started, but we’re pretty sure it’s an American thing. If you’re making green beer to toast your heritage, you’re gonna’ want to start with a beer that’s light in color (but not low on taste). 2 drops of green food coloring should do the trick. And of course, you’ll need some Jerky to go with your festive beverage.

The yellow coloring of a light lager or Pilsner lends itself to turning green. And your Heineken, Oskar Blues Mama’s Little Yella Pils, or your Lagunitas Pils would go great with the lighter side of Jerky - like any of our fish jerky varieties!

More of a Pale Ale drinker? Try your Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Deschutes Mirror Pond, or Ballast Point Grunion with something with a little kick, like Jeff’s Famous Habanero Heat Wave or our very own Jerky Dynasty Hot & Spicy. Let’s get this St. Patty’s party started!

Ye olde Irish Standards:

Green beer not your thing? Rather stick with something more traditional, perhaps a dry Irish stout? Whether it’s the old standby - Guinness, a Dry Irish Stout from Brooklyn Brewery, or a Bearded Seal from Pinthouse Pizza in Austin, TX  - the high carbohydrate level in stout helps to bring out the flavor in the jerky. Pair it with Buffalo Bob’s BBQ Wild Boar - Or Honey BBQ Old Fashioned Elk - The roasty notes of the stout provide a great flavor to accompany the sweetness of the BBQ taste.

No matter your beer style preference, you can’t really go wrong pairing any beer with ANY jerky. It’s just a tried and true combo. And regardless of your heritage or celebratory status, we hope you have a happy St. Patrick’s Day!