This game means everything in the world to me.
My family is composed of almost entirely Nebraska fans. Both of my parents went there. Hell, I almost went there. I grew up a Nebraska fan, and I remember being visibly pissed in 1998 and 2000 when LHC Bill Snyder pissed in the Huskers' cheerios on national television. Most of you also know that I went to KU for a year. So many of you probably are wondering why the hell I'm putting so much importance on this game.
The thing is, as many KSTATEO jokes I make, as much as I (rightfully) bag on powertards for being a walking stereotype of what people make fun of KSU fans for and as much as we get dumped on by others both inside and outside of our region, I love it here. Manhattan is a great town, and this is a great university. I am eternally grateful that they gave me the opportunity to be here. I went from a near college dropout three years ago to a graduate last spring, and KSU is giving me a chance to take things to the next level in grad school. They didn't have to do so. They could have looked at my absolutely horrid, alcohol-fueled grades from my freshman year at KU and said "eh, he's not ready for the big leagues. he wouldn't be able to handle it up here." But, KSU is giving me a shot to prove my potential and propel myself to the career I want, and for that I can never thank them enough.
On the flip side, Nebraska nearly caused irreparable damage to this institution with their actions this summer. I understand why they did what they did. I understand why my entire family wants the University of Texas to sink into the ocean. I really do. But I still cannot forgive them. Not tonight. Once Nebraska is gone, I'll be able to let it go and wish them well. But not tonight. I know that a number of you feel this way as well. Don't kid yourself, the Mountain West would have been a financial disaster for KSU, even if the league had somehow been able to claim BCS status. Fans would not have cared as much. Less money would have come in to athletics. Less money to athletics usually means that less money will end up in academics as well. This would have negatively affected everyone who has ever been affiliated with K-State, regardless of whether they care about sports or not.
For this, Nebraska must pay. I know a number of you will likely be piss-drunk and belligerent with Nebraska fans tonight. I'm generally against people acting like complete dicks if their only provocation is the sight of a shirt with the enemy's colors, but tonight I honestly cannot blame you if some Nebraska fans get their feelings hurt. They knew what they were in for when they decided to travel to Manhattan. I can't condone physical violence, but I definitely cannot condone being civil or friendly to Nebraska fans tonight. Regardless of this game's outcome, let them know that they're not welcome here ever again.
EMAW.
