ESPN 'College GameDay' Etiquette: Don't Get Your Sign Thrown Out!

A quick guide for a safe and enjoyable "College GameDay" experience

With ESPN’s College GameDay headed to Berkeley for the first (and let’s not make it the last!) time ever, we wanted to highlight GameDay and Campus rules that will lead to a smooth and safe Saturday morning.

For those unfamiliar with the hub-bub this weekend, here are some frequently asked questions directly from the ESPN “College GameDay” website.

What is College GameDay Built by The Home Depot?

ESPN's College GameDay Built by The Home Depot is college football's premier pre-game show. The show travels to a different college campus or game site each week of the season from late August/early September through the College Football Playoff National Championship in January. The locations - usually announced a week in advance - are chosen by ESPN based on competitive matchups, rivalries and other factors.

How do I get selected to stand in the pit during the live broadcast?

Students and fans have the opportunity for up-close view of the show by standing in the pit immediately adjacent to the stage. Selection is on a first-come, first-serve basis for all fans. Students admitted to the pit are encouraged to wear school colors and should have a numbered wristband. Participants are subject to ESPN security procedures and policies.

(Editor’s Note: We’re still waiting for clarification from campus on how this will work, but all participants expect to receive a numbered wrist band if you want to be in the Pit. This isn’t exclusive to students.)

What is the ESPN policy for pit participants?

The following items are prohibited in the pit: bags (of any kind), food and drinks, pens, pencils, markers or dry erase boards and signs on sticks. Throwing objects is strictly prohibited in the pit. A number of sign regulations are required as well.

What are the College GameDay sign regulations?

One of the most beloved traditions associated with College GameDay is the making of signs. No vulgar signs, .com, .net, .org, political or religious signs are allowed. For fans entering the pit, signs cannot be on poles or oversized. All signs brought to Saturday's taping will be inspected before entry and must abide by College GameDay's sign policies or will be removed.

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All in all, the rules are fairly straightforward. Of course, you can opt to stand outside the pit off to the sides of the stage, with a greatly reduced chance to get on television. If you still want to get on TV throughout the day, they’re far more likely to look your away if you abide by the sign regulations (and other rules) that apply in the pit.

When in doubt on whether content is over the line, it’s probably best to err on the side of caution. We want to this to be a good experience for all, and we want ESPN to come back! Lifting some points off of a former sister site in CardChronicle (Louisville SB Nation site). Here are some points to consider.

1. Nothing too political - We aren’t sure exactly where the line is here, so probably best to avoid entirely.

2. Nothing vulgar - Don’t want to upset the mouse with a bunch of swear words flashing behind Rece Davis’ head.

3. Keep it safe - Wear comfortable clothing, stay hydrated!

4. No Posts, Poles, Sticks in The Pit

5. Spell-Check three times - Don’t be this guy!

   

6. Avoid hurricane jokes entirely - Following Hurricane Helene, and the devastation that it brought, making fun of those currently suffering isn’t in good taste and a great way to make sure we never get GameDay again. Consider highlighting hurricane relief efforts instead that are assisting our fellow conference members

7. Focus on the football - Football jokes and puns are way better than stereotypes or name-calling. Maybe highlight the time Mario Cristobal snatched defeat from the jaws of victory by choosing not to kneel out?

8. Use local celebrities and Cal-tied athletes - The best signs always come from promoting the home team. And we’ve got a wealth of NFL, NBA, and Professional alums to choose from!