The volume of emotion-filled threads and comments over the past 36 hours is a clear indication that OSU football has a grip on our minds and hearts.  As I’ve spent hours reading comments and watching highlights (and lowlights), I got to wondering why I’m so attached to this team and its performance.  Why does it provoke more emotion than anything in my professional life, for example.  I’m curious to hear others’ takes on how we get so wrapped around the axle 12-15 Saturdays each year.  Here’s the root of my addiction as best I can tell:
1) Genetics.  Parents are both from Ohio and dad is an alum (‘70) - we watched games growing up and he was (and still is) “vocal” during the games.  
2) Community.  I’ve been a good number of places in the world, and no matter where I’m at, I almost always get an O-H from another devoted fan of the brand when I’m sporting OSU gear.

3) Urban Meyer.  Totally changed the vibe of the program.  While I’m not a fan of all of his off-field antics, my love of the program turned into a full-blown addiction when his attitude and swagger transformed the brand and created a level of expectation re: performance that I’m clearly drawn to.  He wanted the other team’s soul and I’m there for it.

Where does it come from for you?