College football bowl season postgame baths represent a mix of tradition and creativity, showcasing unique flavors that range from delightful to downright bizarre. While players may opt out to focus on the NFL Draft or transfer opportunities, bowl games still hold significant importance for many college programs across the nation.
These games are integral to the sport’s culture, and the celebratory act of drenching a coach or star player with a cooler of liquid has become a cherished ritual. However, various bowl games have introduced their own quirky spins on the classic Gatorade shower, resulting in some surprisingly tasty options and others that leave much to be desired.
Let’s explore the most and least appetizing postgame showers!
Tastiest
Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl
When it comes to refreshing beverages, iced coffee reigns supreme. As the second-most popular drink in the United States, with around 400 million cups consumed daily, it’s no wonder that Memphis head coach Ryan Silverfield experienced a cold brew bath following his team’s thrilling 42-37 victory over West Virginia in the Frisco Bowl. This win capped off a season that saw the team finish 11-2 and earn a spot in the AP Top 25 poll.
“It was actually refreshing,” Silverfield shared with reporters. “I’ll take it. … It smells delicious, thank you. We’ll know if I shower or not getting on the plane. It’s phenomenal. What a unique thing. … What a cool deal.”
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
In a salty twist, Northern Illinois head coach Thomas Hammock found himself on the receiving end of a French fry bath after his team triumphed 28-20 in a double-overtime thriller against Fresno State. This victory marked only the second time in Northern Illinois history that they secured back-to-back bowl wins.
The game was highlighted by a missed field goal from Fresno State, which allowed the Huskies to execute a series of clever trick plays to clinch the win.
Cheez-It Citrus Bowl
The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl was marked by an unexpected sideline altercation between coaches Bret Bielema of Illinois and Shane Beamer of South Carolina. Despite the drama, Bielema enjoyed a cheesy shower after his team secured a narrow 21-17 victory.
Pop-Tarts Bowl
In its brief two-year history, the Pop-Tarts Bowl has carved out a reputation as the quirkiest event in college football. Featuring an edible mascot that experiences a comedic demise and resurrection, a toaster trophy, and a sugary Pop-Tarts shower, it’s a feast for the senses. Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell reveled in this sweet shower after his team’s nail-biting 42-41 win against Miami (Fla.).
Least Tasty
Go Bowling Military Bowl
The Go Bowling Military Bowl featured a chaotic finale as East Carolina staged a comeback to win 26-21 against North Carolina State, marred by a fight that resulted in multiple ejections. Despite the chaos, ECU head coach Blake Harrell celebrated with a rather underwhelming shower of mini plastic bowling pins.
ECU coach Blake Harrell smiles after his bowling pin bath in the Go Bowling Military Bowl. (Photo by Timothy Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Duke’s Mayo Bowl
Mayonnaise is a condiment that divides opinions. While some enjoy its creamy texture, others would prefer a shower of bowling pins. This year, the Duke’s Mayo Bowl continued its tradition of dousing the winning coach with mayo, a ritual that has quickly become a fan favorite.
Last season, former West Virginia coach Neal Brown, who is not a fan of mayonnaise, experienced this unique shower after a victory. This year, either Minnesota’s P.J. Fleck or Virginia Tech’s Brent Pry will face the same fate as their teams compete in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
“That’s what’s so great about college football,” Fleck remarked. “I think it’s one of the quirky, really cool traditions. … I think everybody has done it a little bit differently, but I think both head coaches are really open to that because that’s what makes college football really, really special.
“Whether it’s, you know, Pop-Tarts or mayo or … Cheez-Its coming out of the Gatorade or the Powerade tub. I mean, that’s just what makes it a little bit unique and a lot of fun.”
