First things first: Get your viewing zone dialed in. This means double checking the cable connection, calibrating your sound system, and throwing up plenty of decorations. Pulling in additional seating from around the house is a good way to make sure coveted couch spots don't get fought over like a loose ball in the fourth quarter. Last but not least, don't forget to load up on everyone's favorite snack for the big day: Skittles.

It's not enough for superfans to just watch and read about what goes down on the gridiron. There's no better way to get excited for the spectacular plays and big hits of game day than going out and throwing the pigskin around yourself. Bonus points for joining a recreation league and developing your very own touchdown dance.

A spread worthy of an offensive line's appetites is essential to homegating. Refine your recipes, try out some new ones, and start loading up the fridge with the goods. The more you cook during the week, the more you can enjoy the game day.

Homegating isn't a costume contest, but for the most devoted fans it isn't far from one, either. From fine-tuning your face paint to procuring the rarest memorabilia from the depths of the internet, build anticipation by getting your look 100 percent dialed in.

Whether your team is dripping with world championship titles or struggles to get into the playoffs, you've got to know the history. Read up on your team's stats to pull out obscure trivia during the game — it's the best way, after the food and the bigscreen and the decorations and the facepaint, to wow your homegate guests.