College football fans have a reputation for being passionate, loud, and occasionally a little too invested in their teams (looking at you, SEC). But not all fanbases are built on trash talk and rival hatred—some schools are known for their warmth, hospitality, and downright good vibes.
From handing out free food to opposing fans to keeping their tailgates lighthearted, these 20 fanbases prove that being nice and loving football aren’t mutually exclusive. So, let’s celebrate the friendliest crowds in college football!
20. Baylor Bears
Waco might be in the heart of Texas, but Baylor fans bring a Southern charm that’s hard to beat. They’re welcoming, respectful, and more focused on enjoying football than stirring up drama. Plus, they have the iconic Baylor Line, a sea of freshmen running onto the field, which is just plain wholesome.
19. Purdue Boilermakers
Maybe it’s the fact that their mascot is a giant, smiling train engineer, but Purdue fans just have a great attitude. They’re known for being respectful to visitors and love bonding over a good tailgate and a cold beer. Boiler Up, indeed!
18. Utah Utes
Utah fans are loud, loyal, and incredibly kind. They embrace the “Utah nice” mentality and always make sure opposing fans feel safe and welcome. Bonus points for having one of the best stadium backdrops in the country!
17. Washington Huskies
The Pacific Northwest is all about friendly vibes, and Husky fans live up to that reputation. Whether you’re cruising on a boat to Husky Stadium or just walking around Seattle, you’ll find Washington fans to be some of the nicest in college football.
16. Minnesota Golden Gophers
Minnesota nice is real, and Gopher fans embody it. They’re polite, welcoming, and more likely to offer you a hot dish at a tailgate than talk smack. They also stick with their team through thick and thin, proving that kindness and loyalty go hand in hand.
15. North Dakota State Bison
Yes, they’re an FCS powerhouse, but Bison fans deserve recognition for their hospitality. Fargo might get very cold, but the people there are incredibly warm, always willing to chat about football over a plate of comfort food.
14. Texas A&M Aggies
Aggie fans are known for their traditions, but they’re also some of the friendliest in the country. They welcome visitors with open arms, and while they’ll out-yell you in the stands, they’ll also offer you a handshake afterward.
13. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska fans might be the best example of supporting their team through thick and thin. Memorial Stadium is packed no matter how the team is doing, and visiting fans consistently report that Huskers treat them with respect—win or lose.
12. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake Forest may not have the biggest football program, but their fans make up for it with hospitality. They’re known for being friendly to visitors and keep things lighthearted—even when the ACC competition gets fierce.
11. Army Black Knights
Army fans bring a level of respect and sportsmanship that’s hard to top. There’s something special about watching a game at West Point, where the love of football is matched only by admiration for the cadets.
10. Iowa State Cyclones
Cyclone fans bring the Midwest nice in full force. Whether you’re in Ames for a game or just passing through, you’ll get a friendly wave and probably an offer for some tailgate food.
9. Ole Miss Rebels
The Grove might be the most legendary tailgate in college football, and Ole Miss fans make sure everyone has a good time—whether you’re rooting for the Rebels or not. They’ll feed you, toast to a great game, and make you feel like part of the family.
8. Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky may be a basketball school first, but their football fans are some of the best. They’re polite, fun, and genuinely appreciative of good football, no matter who’s playing.
7. Oregon Ducks
Oregon fans are loud and passionate, but they’re also incredibly welcoming. Maybe it’s all the coffee and fresh air, but Ducks fans are known for keeping things positive—even when their uniforms change yet again.
6. Kansas State Wildcats
“Family” is a big part of the K-State culture, and their fans extend that hospitality to visitors. The atmosphere in Manhattan, Kansas, is always friendly, and opposing fans often walk away impressed by how respectful the Wildcats are.
5. Clemson Tigers
Clemson fans have the southern hospitality thing down. Whether you’re at Death Valley or just running into a Tigers fan in the wild, they’re likely to greet you with a smile and a hearty “Go Tigers!”
4. Wisconsin Badgers
Camp Randall is home to Jump Around and some of the nicest fans in college football. Wisconsin fans just want to have a good time, drink some beer, and cheer on the Badgers. And they do it all with a Midwestern friendliness that’s impossible to dislike.
3. Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State’s White Out is one of the most intimidating atmospheres in football, but their fans? Surprisingly kind. They love a good game, they respect their opponents, and their tailgates are legendary for their hospitality.
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2. Georgia Bulldogs
Yes, Georgia fans love their football. But they also know how to treat people right. Whether you’re visiting Athens for the first time or have been coming for years, Dawg fans will welcome you with open arms and plenty of food.
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1. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame takes the top spot because their fans are simply different. They’re incredibly passionate but never cross the line into toxic territory. Visitors to South Bend constantly rave about how welcoming and classy Irish fans are—whether it’s helping lost guests find their way or engaging in respectful football debates.
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