When it comes to Football Sunday, planning the snack spread is the most important part (right after ensuring you actually have access to the sports channel, of course). Pizza and chip dip are easy enough, but mastering the right drink selection can take a tailgate from subpar to success in just a few shakes. We've partnered with Smirnoff Ice to help you win game day with easy drink recipes that pay tribute to the true football heroes — the ones on the couch.
We're talking about the tailgate MVPs, the cheerleaders that rise with each field goal, and the armchair quarterbacks who "definitely could've seen that blitz coming." For all the off-duty refs shouting at screens and touchdown dancers who are just itching to do their thing, these are the drinks that match their football-viewing styles. So whether you prefer sweet and bubbly or tart and citrus-y, these five drinks will have you winning game day, regardless of the score.
1. The Team Player
(serves 2-4)
- 6 oz. Smirnoff Ice Screwdriver
- 3 oz. Campari
- 6 oz. Orange Juice
- Garnish with blood orange slices
Whether they’re passing the ball or just passing some cheese dip, fans holding this drink put their teammates (and fellow tailgaters) first. You’ll catch them sharing what they have, so the rest of the partygoers can celebrate the football game in style. This citrus punch is basically an oasis in a glass — and everyone knows tropical vacays are better spent with friends. Grab a few buddies to share with, and don't forget to cheers!
2. The Touchdown Dancer
(serves 1)
- 3 oz. Chilled Pink Rosé Champagne
- 2 oz. Smirnoff Ice Raspberry
- 1 tsp. Grenadine Syrup
- Garnish with 2-3 raspberries per glass
This fan likes to move it, so get out of their way when their team scores a touchdown. And since their drink is moving as much as they are, a seasoned touchdown dancer knows to opt for a spill-proof vessel to contain the libations. A fizzy pink beverage matches their spark and liveliness. Rosé champagne adds a little dryness, while the grenadine offers a subtle hint of sweetness. Add a few raspberries, and have some napkins at the ready, just in case.
3. The Cheerleader
(serves 1)
- 1 oz. Green Creme de Menthe
- 2 oz. Amarula
- 1 oz. Club Soda
- Garnish with Mint
The cheerleader, naturally, is all about raising morale. You'll find them supporting their team from across the room or just encouraging fellow tailgaters to go back to the snack spread for seconds. The good vibes are strong with this one, so they’ll have an energy-boosting drink in hand to match their enthusiasm. This creamy green drink is the perfect mid-game treat with its kick of mint and sparkling club soda.
4. The MVP
(serves 1)
- 1 oz. Vodka
- 1 oz. Blue Curacao
- 3 oz. Pineapple Juice
- Garnish with fresh blueberries
Every tailgate has an MVP — they're the ones ensuring the party's success, whether they're supplying snacks or refilling cups. And they deserve a drink that honors their contribution. This pineapple creation has the kind of fruity-citrus flavor combo that says "I appreciate you." And its dazzling blue color sparkles brighter than any vicotry ring.
5. The Quarterback
(serves 1)
- Smirnoff Ice Original
Sometimes it's the eleventh hour (aka one minute before kickoff) and duty calls — you hear a guest requesting "One more drink!" The QB knows this is the time to sprint to the cooler and throw a Hail Mary, tossing over a cold one to their pal. This makes the original Smirnoff Ice their go-to, as open glasses just don’t travel as well.
This post is sponsored by Smirnoff Ice. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. SMIRNOFF ICE Premium Malt Beverage. The Smirnoff Co., Norwalk, CT.
Photos: Ashley Batz/Bustle; Food and Prop Stylist: Pakayla Biehn; Art Direction: Bry Crasch/Bustle. Editor: Elly Ayres/Bustle. Senior Editor: Lexi Novak/Bustle. Production: Lucy Haller and Nancy Valev/Bustle.
