At G&G we're not in the business of scouting football teams or making game-day prognostications, but we will own up to knowing a thing or two about the tailgating and après-game partying that goes along with college football in the South. Herewith our guide to one of the weekend's hottest games and everything you need to know for a good time—win or lose.

Tailgating Spots:
North Campus (home to the historic, wrought-iron arches) is the prime tailgating real estate in Athens. Last year, UGA President Michael Adams tightened the tailgating rules to make it family-friendly (aka: no open drinking). While it is reported that the restrictions may be somewhat looser this year, it is best to keep your booze in a cup. UGA Alumni are also partial to pre-game near the school they attended (so you'll typically find your liberal arts grads on the North Campus and your more science-minded folk on the South Campus).

Tailgating Spreads:
Athens-based chef and restaurateur Hugh Acheson (5 &10 and the National) has shared some of his favorite tailgating recipes.

What to drink:
"This is a play on the classic spicy ginger ale and bourbon, but we are making our own ginger syrup. The simple way of making a syrup can be stretched into other cocktail and dessert applications as well. Maker’s is a solid bourbon, but you could use Evan Williams, Bulleit, or Old Rip Van Winkle to name a few others." —Chef Hugh Acheson

The Southern Staple: Bourbon and Spicy Ginger Soda

Ginger Syrup
½ cup sugar (fine turbinado)
½ cup water
¼ lb. fresh ginger root (peeled and finely grated)

In a small saucepot bring the sugar, water, and ginger to a boil. Turn off the heat, and allow to steep and cool for one hour. Strain off the ginger pieces, and reserve the syrup.

To Serve
(makes 1)
Large ice cubes
3 oz. Maker's Mark (Evan Williams, Bulleit, and Old Rip Van Winkle are solid alternatives)
1 tbsp. ginger syrup
2 slices fresh ripe peach (Try pear if peaches are out of season.)
2 oz. soda water

Fill a 10 oz. highball glass with ice. Add Maker's Mark and ginger syrup, and stir. Add peach slices (or pear), and pour soda water to the top of the glass. Stir gently.

More tailgating recipes from Hugh Acheson:
The Salty Dawg Cocktail
Hugh's Fried Chicken and Stewed Pickled Tomatoes
Pork and Veal Meatball Subs

Where to Eat:
You can't go wrong at either of Acheson's restaurants, but for a classic gameday tradition, head to the Varsity.
What to order: Naked Steak with Pimento (aka pimento cheese burger). 1000 West Broad Street; 706-548-6325

Also check out Mama's Boy for breakfast.
What to order: The biscuits are killer and will soak up any lingering effects from the night before. 197 Oak Street; 706-548-6249

Where to Drink:
Roadhouse Your classic dive bar. Plus, it's conveniently located next to Athens' best pizza joint, Little Italy. 137 North Lumpkin Street; 706-613-2324
The Pub at Game Day Great place to grab a beer (some 50 to 100 different brews) while you watch the game. 251 West Clayton Street; 706-353-2831
The Globe The folks at this Athens institution know how to mix a cocktail. They put together a helluva burger too. 199 North Lumpkin Street; 706-353-4721
Max Canada Insider tip: You can get a six-pack to go. 243 West Washington Street; 706-254-3392


No ticket, no problem:
The newly reopened Georgia Theatre continues its tradition of showing the games on a big screen. Doors open at 3 p.m. (21 and up). Call for more information. 215 North Lumpkin Street; 706-850-7670


Favorite UGA Tradition:
A Georgia Baptism (otherwise known as getting a lick from the team's mascot, Uga)

Read more about Athens in the G&G City Portrait

Anything to add?
We'd love to hear your thoughts on what should be seen and done before the game and in Athens. Please add your sugestions in the comments below.