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GreaterUpperValley.com

Score a Touchdown at Your Next NFL Party!

Sep 02, 2013 11:33PM ● By Erin Frisch

Football season is back, and it’s time to party! With a season that’s sure to be filled with challenges and epic plays, there’s nothing greater to look forward to for football fans. Kansas City’s season win has put the Chiefs at the top of the game, and with the help of quarterback Andy Dalton, the Cincinnati Bengals are top contenders. The San Francisco 49ers’ talent got them close last year, and the almost-reachable victory has likely given them the push they need to take it all the way. Tom Brady, along with plenty of young talent, will undoubtedly provide a superior New England Patriots’ performance. No matter who takes it, we’re in for an intense season.

Along with football season come other reasons to rejoice—namely, snacks, beer, and weekly parties. With just a few simple steps, your party will be so great that your friends will be doing touchdown dances out the door.

While decorations are typically reserved for Super Bowl parties, you can set the scene without getting too fancy. Inexpensive streamers in your favorite team’s colors or those of the predicted winning team can be twisted around the room to create a party atmosphere. Silly noisemakers, colored beads, and pom-poms or face paint will rev your guests up with excitement. Set out plates and napkins in the colors of the opposing teams for some fun competition.

During halftime and commercials, quick, fun games are a great way to pass the time. Cut out a picture of the quarterback and play Pin the Football on the Player—especially if kids are present. You can set up a pool or betting board for adults or set up poker or card games in a corner.

The most important aspect of the party? Eats, of course. There’s nothing better than some wing sauce dribbling down your chin as your team scores a touchdown. Check out this simple and sure-to-please recipe!

Discard the tips and separate the joints of 3 pounds of chicken wings. Grill or fry them for 8 to 12 minutes on each side, then set aside. In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, and add 1/4 cup of hot sauce and 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, salt, garlic powder, and ground pepper. When the contents are heated, pour them over the reserved wings and stir gently to coat the chicken evenly. Voila!

A creamy, flavorful guacamole provides the perfect cool-down to spicy wings. You will need 3 large avocados, one ripe tomato, a sprig of fresh cilantro, a small red onion, and a teaspoon of salt. Dice the tomatoes, onion, and cilantro. Peel, remove pits, and coarsely mash the fresh avocados just until chunky. Combine all ingredients. For extra creaminess, add a spoonful of sour cream. Salt to taste and serve with tortilla chips.

The most obvious companion to wings and guacamole is an ice-cold beer, but for those who prefer something fun and refreshing, margaritas are the way to go. Just fill a glass with ice and add your favorite tequila, along with an ounce of lime juice, Triple Sec, or Cointreau, and shake or stir. Rinse a glass and dip the damp rim into kosher salt, if desired, and enjoy a delicious, tangy drink.

Simplicity is the key to throwing an excellent football party. With a variety of flavors to sample, fun and memorable games and attire, and the joy of being surrounded by friends while watching your favorite sport. So get out there and take it to the end zone!

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