College football is a sport built on passion, tradition, and the occasional (okay, frequent) trash talk. But not all fanbases are out for blood—some are actually gasp… nice! Whether it’s offering a beer to an opposing fan or welcoming visitors with open arms, these fanbases prove that Southern hospitality, Midwestern friendliness, and good ol’ sportsmanship are alive and well.
So, let’s take a break from ranking the most toxic fanbases (looking at you, SEC Twitter) and celebrate the friendliest, most welcoming groups in college football.
20. Iowa State Cyclones
Ames might not be the easiest road trip, but when you get there, you’re met with fans who genuinely want you to have a great time. Bonus points for their legendary tailgating—these people will feed you like you’re part of the family.
19. Kansas State Wildcats
The phrase “family” is literally their slogan, and they mean it. Manhattan, Kansas, might be small, but the fans are some of the nicest around. Even if their football team isn’t always dominant, K-State fans will make sure you have a great time.
18. North Dakota State Bison
They might not be an FBS program, but NDSU fans deserve a shoutout. If you ever find yourself in Fargo, you’ll be welcomed with warm Midwestern smiles… and probably an invitation to a tailgate.
17. Washington Huskies
Seattle is one of the best road trip destinations in college football, and Husky fans make it even better. You’ll be too distracted by the stunning views of Lake Washington to get into any heated arguments.
16. Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue fans may be used to playing the underdog role, but that doesn’t make them bitter—it makes them fun. They’ll gladly welcome you to West Lafayette with a high-five and a beer.
15. Virginia Cavaliers
Charlottesville is a beautiful place to watch a game, and UVA fans tend to keep things classy. You won’t find a lot of hostility in the tailgating lots—just good vibes and maybe a little too much wine.
14. Colorado Buffaloes
Before Deion Sanders arrived, Colorado fans were mostly known for being chill, outdoorsy folks who love football. Even now, they’re still some of the more welcoming fans in the country—especially if you bond over craft beer.
13. Wisconsin Badgers
Jump Around, grab a brat, and enjoy the experience. Badger fans love their team, but they also love a good time. Even if your team loses in Madison, they’ll still invite you to a postgame party.
12. Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky may be a basketball school first, but their football fans are still incredibly friendly. They’ll share their bourbon, give you directions, and even say “bless your heart” in the nicest way possible.
11. Arkansas Razorbacks
Woo Pig Sooie! Arkansas fans love their Hogs, but they’re also some of the most welcoming folks you’ll meet. If you’re visiting Fayetteville, expect great barbecue, good manners, and maybe a little too much SEC pride.
10. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Living in the shadow of Georgia’s football dominance hasn’t made Tech fans bitter—it’s made them humble and fun. If you’re in Atlanta, they’ll gladly recommend the best places to eat and maybe even help you navigate the city’s many Peachtree streets.
9. Minnesota Golden Gophers
The nicest state in America? Yeah, their football fans reflect that. Whether they win or lose, Gophers fans will probably apologize to you at least three times before you leave the stadium.
8. Ole Miss Rebels
The tailgate scene at The Grove is legendary, and it’s not just for the home team. Ole Miss fans will happily welcome opposing fans to their elaborate setups, as long as you dress well and don’t insult the Rebels.
7. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Despite being one of the most historic programs in college football, Notre Dame fans aren’t as insufferable as you’d expect. Most of them just want to talk about tradition and Rudy, and honestly, that’s pretty wholesome.
6. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Win or lose (and, let’s be real, they’ve lost a lot lately), Nebraska fans are some of the most polite in the sport. They’ll cheer for a good play—even if it’s by the opposing team—and make sure you feel at home in Lincoln.
5. Texas A&M Aggies
Aggies take pride in their traditions, and one of those is being incredibly nice. If you ever find yourself in College Station, expect to be greeted with a “Howdy!” and possibly invited to join in on a Midnight Yell.
4. Clemson Tigers
There’s just something about Clemson fans—they’re friendly, passionate, and they don’t hold grudges. Unless, of course, you’re an Alabama fan from 2016.
3. Utah Utes
Utah fans may not have the biggest program in the country, but they might have some of the best vibes. They’re welcoming, enthusiastic, and too busy enjoying the mountains to start any real drama.
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2. BYU Cougars
Provo might not be the rowdiest road trip, but BYU fans will make sure you feel like a guest of honor. Whether it’s their faith or just their general niceness, these fans keep things civil—even when the game gets intense.
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1. Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa fans aren’t just friendly—they literally wave to sick children in the hospital after the first quarter. That level of kindness is unmatched. Whether you’re a visiting fan or a lifelong Hawkeye, there’s no denying that Iowa deserves the crown as the nicest fanbase in college football.
Related: Ranking the 15 Most Insufferable College Football Fanbases
