Penn State gamedays require three key elements: sports, tailgating, and the Blue Band.

There’s nothing like the Blue Band rallying a Penn State student section in between plays, win or loss.

Of course, some songs rally better than others. We took the time to rank some of our favorite Blue Band songs as it gets ready for one last performance at the Rose Bowl.

9. Everytime We Touch

Cascada knew it made a banger when it dropped this one. However, I’m docking points for spelling “every time” as one word — criminal.

Still, the vibes of screaming out these lyrics with your friends on a rainy day at Beaver Stadium are unmatched.

8. Rock And Roll Cheer

“Rock and Roll Cheer” is an all-timer for crowd work. There are almost no words — just sounds and choreography. Everyone can yell out three letters, yell “hey!” and shake their shakers.

It isn’t the ultimate hype song, but it’s great for getting people on their feet.

7. NFOS

“NFOS” is simple. It’s short and sweet. So short, in fact, that you barely process that it’s happening before it ends. Frankly, this is for the better — most of the song is the part of “Fight on State” that nobody knows. Still, it’s great for a mid-drive song break.

6. Floating LIONS Drill Music

This is actually two songs in one, but it keeps the Blue Band efficient pregame. Some clean drums in between “The Nittany Lion” and “Fight on State” keep the vibes fresh. However, because this isn’t its own song, it can’t get too high up the list.

5. Lion Fanfare w/Downfield

Sometimes I feel like this song goes unnoticed during games. I’ve always felt that only the students nearest the Blue Band get involved with this song when it would be great to get the whole stadium involved.

If the participation rate jumped a few points with this, it could get way closer to No. 1.

4. Seven Nation Army

This is perfect. If “Seven Nation Army” was written specifically for the Blue Band, this would be No. 1. There’s nothing like yelling this after a massive play for the Nittany Lions. Words can’t describe just how good the vibes are.

3. Fight On State

By no means is this the Blue Band’s best song. However, it does mention Onward State, so this has to be in the top three.

2. The Nittany Lion

As far as big band songs go, this one’s a bit of a bop. It’s upbeat, funky, and elite. Unfortunately, no one knows the words to this one and it somewhat takes away from the vibe.

All the same, Penn State football comes out to the field to “The Nittany Lion,” which automatically bumps it on this list.

1. Alma Mater

The Alma Mater is an automatic No. 1. This is the first song that everyone learns when they come to Penn State, and it sticks with you long after the fact.

Whether you’re at football after losing to Ohio State in a fourth-quarter meltdown or at a women’s soccer game after advancing in the NCAA Tournament, this song holds a special place in your heart.