It has been a busy week at the University of Nevada.
Not only is the first week of classes coming to an end, but Saturday, college football will be in full-swing.
After weeks practicing in the summer heat, the Nevada football team's trip to Berkeley is finally here.
Even though the Wolf Pack is starting out on the road, many fans are expected to make the trip over the hill.
Keith Hackett is the Senior Associate Athletic Director at Nevada and he says there is definitely a buzz around town.
"I think it's a great opportunity for our Wolf Pack fans to not only go and see a great game, spend some time in San Francisco, and I think there is a lot of energy here, in the community," Hackett said. "Lots on campus, as well."
The last time Nevada played Cal, the Pack won by three touchdowns at Mackay Stadium, in 2010.
The team and its fans are hoping for the same, Saturday.
"It meant a lot two years ago and I know it's not the first time we've done it and I think our kids are ready for the challenge and it's a way to get the season started on the right foot," Hackett said.
For the Nevada Wolf Shop, the season is already getting started on the right foot, with merchandise flying off the shelves.
"I've heard a lot of buzz with the students, talking about going over there and we have folks coming in and getting their spirit gear," text book manager Aaron Ochoa said. "So, the pom-poms, hands, the facial paint, stuff like that. So, I really think it is a buzz on campus."
In fact, some of his employees are even taking the weekend off to make the three hour trip to the bay area.
Some students are not as lucky.
"I had tickets but I couldn't go because I had to work, this weekend," Michael Moriarty said. "So, I wish it was televised, so I could watch it at home."
For others, the Nevada-Cal matchup will decide if blood is thicker than water.
"My parents are Cal alumni and I'm a UNR student," Abby Feenstra said. "So, it will be an interesting situation because I'm going down with them. It will be fun."
"I'm expecting a great game for Nevada," Gordon Sproul said. "I mean, it's going to be exciting. My whole family is part of the Cal team. They went to Cal, so it will be a good family rivalry, I guess."
As the buses roll out of town, the Wolf Pack hopes it's the Golden Bears on the losing end of that family rivalry.
The football game starts at noon, Saturday and the Nevada Athletic Department says anyone going to Berkeley for the game should make sure to get there early because parking is limited.
The Wolf Pack's home opener is a week from Saturday when South Florida comes to town.
Written by Paul Nelson
