Round One of the Big Game Fan Challenge
Matchup #1: Chargers Fans Face Off
First, we have two die-hard Chargers fans who proudly claim to be among the biggest Bolts supporters in all of Oregon. They’ve been cheering on the team for decades. And while their Chargers had some bad luck in the first round of the playoffs, maybe these two will have better luck in our challenge!
Their opponent? Another loyal Chargers fan—Debbie! She’s been to Allegiant Stadium, AT&T Stadium, the Pro Bowl, and even Justin Herbert’s celebrity softball game for kids’ sports at the University of Oregon. Debbie has stood by her team through the bad, the ugly, and the good. To quote Jim Harbaugh: “Who’s got it better than us? Nobody!”
Matchup #2: Seahawks vs. Rams
On the left, we have Jill, a passionate Seahawks fan. Jill and her husband never miss a game, and she admits she yells at the TV often—don’t worry, neighbors, it’s just her Seahawks spirit!
On the right, we have a lifelong Rams fan. The move from St. Louis to L.A. didn’t shake his allegiance. He’s weathered losing seasons and celebrated the Rams’ Super Bowl victory a few years ago. Now, he’s hoping to advance in our challenge just like his Rams did last week.
Matchup #3: Raiders vs. Seahawks
Next up, we have Aaron Chambers, also known as Mr. B.O.R.N Himself. Aaron created the Bend Oregon Raider Nation and has been a die-hard Raiders fan for as long as he can remember. He’s part of a rap group with nine full albums dedicated to the Raiders and has brought seven actual Raiders players to Bend for Christmas parades over the past seven years. I’ve been to one of their watch parties—trust me, it’s a blast!
Facing Aaron is William Miller, a Seahawks superfan. William, who happens to be Jill’s husband, might just be the biggest Seahawks fan in all the land—or at least that’s what Jill says.
Matchup #4: Chiefs vs. Vikings
In the final showdown of Round One, we have the Dolbin family, devoted Chiefs fans who even made a trip to Arrowhead Stadium to cheer on their favorite team. Decked out in all the gear for every game, they’re Chiefs fans through and through.
Their opponent is Jordan, a Minnesota Vikings fan since the 1970s. He’s been loyal to the purple and gold since the days of Fran Tarkenton and the legendary "Purple People Eaters" defense. Just look at that Viking hat—Skol!
And that wraps up the first-round matchups of the Big Game Fan Challenge!
Thank you to everyone who submitted photos showcasing their NFL fandom. Tune in next Thursday when we’ll reveal the winners of Round One and announce the second-round matchups.