Aug 26, 2024Spuds, sweet onions to add flavor to inaugural football clash
Georgia sweet onion grower Shuman Farms is partnering with the Idaho Potato Commission and Georgia Southern University to bring a new flavor to a college football clash.
Rooted Rivalry: Onions vs. Potatoes will pit the Georgia Southern Eagles against the Boise State Broncos in the season opener for both teams on Aug. 31. The meeting will be the first between the two teams.
Before the game, tailgating fans can sample Idaho potato chips with sweet onion dip and snap pics with Shuman Farms’ Giant Sweet Onion, the Big Idaho Potato Truck and Spuddy Buddy, IPC’s mascot.
“As a Georgia Southern alumnus and with our farm right in their (the school’s) backyard, we couldn’t be more excited to partner with a university that contributes so much to the state of Georgia,” John Shuman, president and CEO of Shuman Farms, said in a news release. “This partnership not only allows us to support our community but also adds a fun twist to the tailgate experience by turning it into a friendly rivalry with our friends at the Idaho Potato Commission.
“We can’t wait to celebrate with fans and enjoy all the delicious ways these veggies can be used.”
The IPC has become known for its marketing moves, including the annual Famous Idaho Potato Bowl and a french fry-scented perfume.
“We’re always looking for new ways to engage with customers, and the Rooted Rivalry scores a touchdown with IPC,” Jamey Higham, IPC president and CEO, said in the release.
“We get to sample famous Idaho potatoes with passionate college football fans while introducing thousands to the Big Idaho Potato Truck and Spuddy Buddy.”
Shuman Farms, a third-generation grower, is based in Reidsville, Georgia.
Georgia Southern has won 16 of its past 17 home openers and is 33-7-1 all-time in home openers in the modern era, according to the school’s athletics website.
