On Oct. 24, the Huskers will face Ohio State in their first matchup of the season.

Football Saturdays are a fun tradition for all Nebraskans — but as cases of COVID-19 continue to rise throughout the state, it’s important that fans work together to prevent the virus from spreading.

Here are a few tips for celebrating upcoming game days while protecting yourself and others.

Avoid gathering in large groups

COVID-19 likes crowds, and the virus doesn’t go away just because Husker football is on. On game days, avoid tailgating, backyard parties and any other sort of large gathering. Watching the game at home with the people you live with is the safest choice, says Dr. Sara Bares of the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Watch the game outside

If you do plan on inviting a small group of friends or family to watch the game, try doing so outdoors, where ventilation is better and people can space out 6 feet apart.

Ask guests to bring their own snacks and drinks

During the game, avoid serving food buffet-style. Eating food that other people have touched or breathed on can be risky, and dishing up food from the same table also puts you in close proximity with others.

Host a virtual watch party

As the weather gets colder and outdoor gatherings become less feasible, call up some friends and have a virtual watch party over Zoom! You can even put yourself in the stadium with a virtual background. Don’t forget to wear your scarlet and cream — and maybe your corn-head hat if you have it handy.

Want to kick the watch party up a notch? You can also download printable game day props and decor, available for free through Box.

Bring the game day eats to you

Chowing down on a Runza or slice of Valentino’s pizza is a classic Husker game day tradition. To recreate the stadium atmosphere at home, grab takeout from either restaurant or check out other recipes on Nebraska’s Game Day Eats Pinterest board.

Replicate the sounds of Memorial Stadium

To build excitement before kickoff, check out this Spotify playlist with a range of Memorial Stadium favorites. The soundtrack features the Cornhusker Marching Band, Journey, AC/DC and more.

Show your spirit online

Looking for more ways to show your Husker pride? University Communication has put together a library full of graphics to share on social media. Be sure to share your game day photos on social media using #HuskersAtHome so that others can join in the celebration.

Current students can also enter drawings for a weekly prize pack by posting a photo album of their safe game day setup on Instagram with the hashtag #HuskerHomegating.