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Why I'm choosing to be a Chattanooga Mocs fan


Look out, college football world: I'm ready to join the rest of you as one of the painted-faced, tailgate-enjoying, fight-song-singing, die-hard fans.

Last week, I asked the Internet for help in finding a college football team to root for (TL;DR: I'm from New York City, went to a small college with no football team and I feel left out). Thanks to all of you who reached out on Twitter and Facebook with your suggestions. Before we get into why I picked the team I chose, I'll take you through the thought process.

Readers sent in FBS teams like Rutgers, Cincinnati, East Carolina, Duke, Maryland, Kansas, Southern Mississippi, Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Tulane and South Florida. One of my cousins who has been a lifelong Florida State fan joked the Seminoles might be a good candidate after Saturday's beatdown at the hands of Louisville.

4. FCS football is making some noise

NDSU's win on Saturday is nothing new. Richmond's victory over Virginia earlier this month was one of a few FCS wins over FBS schools in 2016, and who can forget the Appalachian State victory over Michigan in 2007?

And just look at the names of NFL QBs from FCS schools: Joe Flacco (Delaware), Jimmy Garoppolo (Eastern Illinois) and Carson Wentz (North Dakota State). There's something about FCS football I want to dive into.

5. Their final game of the season is against … Alabama

I loved the idea of rooting for a team that will be a huge underdog on the road against the defending national champions. How's that for a regular season finale?

So there you have it. I'm coming, Moc Nation. I can't wait to be a Chattanooga fan.