Fandom 250: Case for Alabama Crimson Tide fans

The Alabama Crimson Tide have some of the best fans in sports, and here is why they deserve to be atop the Fandom 250.

There is nothing quite like Alabama football. With 16 national championships to its name, winning runs in Alabama’s blood. The Crimson Tide has won four of the last eight national titles, and the next championship always doesn’t seem too far away. Alabama has also had its share of storied coaches from legend Paul “Bear” Bryant to legend in the making (or already one depending on who you root for). Four former coaches are in the College Football Hall of Fame. Bryant won six national titles. Saban has won four with a chance to win another one to end the 2017 season after leading this year’s Crimson Tide to an 11–1 season.

No Alabama discussion can be complete without talking about game day at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Despite the almost guaranteed wins, Alabama fans continue to come out to games in droves—and while it’s tough to beat the Tide, it’s just as difficult to top the atmosphere. In 2016, ‘Bama drew more fans than any other program. The Crimson Tide drew 1,365,657 in total fan attendance that season, averaging 101,821 per home game, which is at capacity. Football is a serious business in Tuscaloosa. Throw in the great rivalries—Iron Bowl anyone?—and ‘Bama fans can’t be beat.

Fans seem to have a lot to be thankful for and are often characterized as “the worst” by rivals because of all that winning. But ‘Bama fans take it in stride, winning their way over anyone in their path. It doesn’t hurt to claim bragging rights over basically every opponent.

Alabama is a dynasty team in the purest form. And their fans won’t hesitate to remind you about that. Roll Tide.

Full rankings for the Fandom 250 will be unveiled on December 12, 2017 at Fandom250.com.