The phenomenon of earthquake games in college football has captured the attention of seismologists and football fans alike. The seismic activity generated by large crowds during pivotal moments in games has led to a deeper understanding of the Earth’s critical zone and has even inspired educational programs centered around seismology.
The first earthquake game occurred on a sleepy Sunday morning in Baton Rouge in 1988, following LSU’s dramatic victory over Auburn. The seismic activity recorded during Eddie Fuller’s game-winning touchdown grab led to the game being dubbed the „Earthquake Game.“ This event sparked interest in monitoring seismic activity during football games, leading to the discovery of similar occurrences at other stadiums across the country.
Seismologists like Juan Lorenzo at LSU and Derek Sawyer at Ohio State have used earthquake games as a tool for education and research. Lorenzo’s SeisMEAUXgraph program at LSU and Sawyer’s FanQuakes project at Ohio State have provided valuable insights into how large crowds can impact the Earth’s surface. These programs have not only engaged students but have also attracted funding and support from alumni and donors.
The seismic waves generated by fan movements during football games can be detected by seismographs, providing valuable data for studying the Earth’s critical zone. The rhythmic traditions of certain stadiums, like Virginia Tech’s „Enter Sandman“ ritual, create seismic waves that travel through the Earth’s surface, offering a unique perspective on how human activities can affect the environment.
The seismic data collected during earthquake games has also been instrumental in studying other geophysical phenomena, such as levee strength and water distribution systems. By analyzing the seismic waves generated by large crowds, seismologists have gained a better understanding of how the Earth’s surface responds to external forces, leading to advancements in various fields of study.
Overall, earthquake games in college football have not only provided entertainment for fans but have also contributed to scientific research and education. The intersection of sports and seismology has opened up new avenues for exploration and collaboration, showcasing the potential for innovative approaches to studying the Earth’s dynamic processes. As programs like SeisMEAUXgraph and FanQuakes continue to expand, the impact of earthquake games on our understanding of the Earth’s critical zone will only grow.