So, as I stated above, this is in several ways not on topic.
There is an organization that many know called "Barstool Sports". I was surfing social media today and saw where they've done a survey of who has the best Tailgate, by state. For Virginia, it's VT.
I realize that for conference affiliation we need eyes on TV Sets, the conferences get money from advertisers for the number of potential watchers on a given gameday. We need Flames, old and new to watch our games.
For bowl invitations we need butts in seats, the Bowls want people who will travel and bring their money with them to the site...and still have eyes in front of the TV.
Being recognized as having the best Tailgate for the state is actually an important thing...I've been to ballgames where I wasn't cheering for either team, but both were cordial and invited me to partake of their Tailgating. Great food and a great atmosphere will bring people to our Stadium (which elevates our status with others). A poor atmosphere will do the opposite.
Just two cents that I'm throwing out. Be a light in that vast darkness.