Three K-State Fans Claim “Tailgater of the Game” Title with Three Home Games Left.

The 2026 K-State football season is in full swing with three tailgaters claiming the title of "Tailgater of the Game." Three home games remain for fans to have a chance at winning a Pit Boss griddle, prize banner and bragging rights.

Each week, Kansas Beef Council (KBC) and K-State Collegiate Cattlewomen (CCW) walk the tailgating lots with beef swag and entry cards looking for tailgaters cooking beef for their chance to win a tabletop, two-burner Pit Boss griddle. One winner is drawn, at random, and awarded the griddle along with a prize banner and bragging rights.

The season’s first three winners include Eric Miller and family of Manhattan, featuring quesadilla burgers; Angie Eck and family of Gardner, featuring beef sticks and breakfast burritos; Staci Hartner-Uhl and family of Rossville, featuring steak and eggs.

KBC and CCW will return with “Tailgater of the Game” Oct. 10, Oct. 17 and Nov. 7. All six weekly winners will be entered into a season-ending drawing for a Pit Boss smoker and a pair of suite tickets to the Nov. 21 finale against Arizona.

“Tailgater of the Game” is part of KBC’s efforts to connect with fans in fun, memorable ways. By recognizing winners throughout the season, KBC highlights the versatility of beef— from burgers and brats to roasts and ribs—while celebrating traditions that unite fans and communities.

Follow along to see this season's winners at @ksbeef on Instagram and visit www.kansasbeef.org for recipe inspiration, cooking tips and more.