OPINION: Yes, I’m a Woman Who Loves Football, I Know What I’m Talking About

TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) - There’s this moment that happens a little too often — when I start talking football and someone hits me with a surprised look, a condescending chuckle, or even worse: a pop quiz to “see if I really know the game.”

Spoiler alert: I do.

I’m a woman who loves football. Always have. I grew up on Alabama Saturdays with my dad and grandparents, learned the lingo, felt the heartbreak of close losses, and screamed at the TV when the Tide rolled in. I can break down a play, recognize when the O-line’s collapsing, and I’ll happily argue about SEC dominance. But for some reason, that still surprises people.

Let’s be real: football culture wasn’t built with women in mind. But we’ve always been here — watching, cheering, coaching, covering, analyzing. Women aren’t “new” to football; people are just finally paying attention to us.

It’s not just about tailgates and jerseys (though I do love a good game-day outfit). It’s about understanding the strategy, knowing the players, following recruiting classes, and yes — screaming at the refs like we actually have control over their calls.

And it goes beyond fandom. We’re raising sons who play the game. We’re coaching little league. We’re running sports media accounts. We’re covering high school football stories — sometimes better than the guys. And we’re showing up every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with the same passion, energy, and knowledge as any man in the room.

I’m tired of women being treated like guests in a sport we’ve supported all our lives.

There’s something powerful about reclaiming our space in football — not because we need to prove anything, but because we already belong. I don’t need a man to explain what a blitz is. I’m not just watching for the cute players. And if I bring up stats or rankings, it’s not because I googled it five minutes ago.

I’m invested because I love the game.

I’ve cried after losses. I’ve sat in the stands in freezing weather. I’ve driven hours just to catch a rivalry matchup. Football is emotional, strategic, passionate — and I feel every part of it.

So here’s to the women who love football: the ones who call plays before they happen, who know the difference between a corner

Football is for us, too. It always has been.

TXAN 24 proudly supports women in sports — as fans, creators, players, and storytellers.

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