Oregon Civil War: Tales from the tailgate

EUGENE, Ore.--The celebrating started early across from Autzen Stadium.  Parking lots filled with cars and RVs shortly after the sun came up.   

Tailgaters broke out the drinks, the snacks and -- to battle the cold temperatures -- the fire pits.  A few college-age Duck fans turned to a rousing game of beer pong to keep warm.

Every group of tailgaters has a story. 

Here are two KVAL heard the morning of the Civil War.

A proud father

Dan Kavanaugh, father of Oregon State wide receiver Taylor Kavanaugh, dressed as a Beaver -- complete with furry hat and flat tail.

"My wife and I are both alums and the concept of having our son playing for the Beavs in the Civil War, the 113th Civil War for the roses, it's surreal," said Kavanaugh.  "There's no other way to say it.  It's surreal."

Kavanaugh and friends, including a few Duck fans, set up two motor homes across from each other.  They expected to host 70 friends.

Mighty mustaches

Jeremy Boethin and friends reunite once a year for the Civil War, but they have their own competition going as well -- a Mike Bellotti inspired mustache growing contest.

"You gotta have a mustache. Can't go beyond the corners of your mouth," he said.  "Other than that, there are no rules."

The winner is determined by a vote at their tailgate.

Boethin has won the past two years but though another friend, who was a bit camera shy, was going to take it this year.