**Excitement Builds as Indiana Fans Gear Up for College GameDay**

There’s a palpable buzz in Bloomington as Indiana University students and fans prepare for ESPN's College GameDay ahead of the Hoosiers’ highly-anticipated matchup against Washington. In a scene usually reserved for basketball, IU's undefeated 7-0 start to the football season has fans excited like never before.

IU junior Sam Foley took an early morning drive past Memorial Stadium on Friday, expecting to see a crowd already assembling for a prime spot in the GameDay pit. To his surprise, the sidewalks were still empty. Determined to be at the forefront, Foley loaded up on supplies from the College Mall and set up his chair at 11 a.m., becoming the first student in line for the historic event.

"I was kind of surprised," Foley told The Daily Hoosier. "My friends back home got me nervous, saying people might stay overnight. But I came back, and nobody was here."

Not long after Foley arrived, senior Daniel Tauberman joined the line, equally equipped with essentials for the long wait. With a lawn chair, a portable charger, and even an umbrella for the passing rain, Tauberman was prepared for the challenge. Reflecting on his GameDay experience, he mentioned, "This is light rain. It means f-ing nothing," recalling harsher conditions during a past Purdue basketball game.

As fans ready themselves for the show's live start at 9 a.m. on Saturday, hosts and crew are gearing up for a memorable broadcast. This is the second time College GameDay has come to Bloomington, but the show's usual fan-packed setting makes this visit unique. Host Rece Davis expressed his excitement, stating, "There’s a different vibe and energy when you start the day of football early in the morning among fans."

With deep ties to IU football, notably through former coach and GameDay analyst Lee Corso, the show promises to be special for Hoosier fans. Foley highlighted Corso's legacy and shared his optimism about current coach Curt Cignetti's prospects.

For long-time followers like Foley, the national spotlight on IU football is a moment of pride. "I feel like tomorrow will be a reason why the nation can understand why Bloomington needs this so much," Foley said, recalling his own childhood memories at Memorial Stadium. "It’s just nice to see a successful team and the nation actually caring about our team."

As IU continues to make strides in the football world, the anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding GameDay in Bloomington underscore the significance of this event for the university and its dedicated supporters.