What is Bedlam? It’s an annual tradition for Oklahoma State University students to paint the town red before the big Bedlam game, so what can we expect this year? Will it be as crazy as last year? What are some of the traditions that will take place during this event?
What is Bedlam?
The Bedlam Series is an annual event that celebrates the rivalry between the Oklahoma State Cowboys and the University of Oklahoma Sooners.
The actual term “Bedlam” is often used as a way to describe the intense excitement of the game itself. It has become one of the most talked-about events in college sports, winning multiple awards, including Best on Ground at ESPN’s 2015 ESPYs.
The history of Bedlam
The word “Bedlam” has been used since medieval times to describe a scene of wild disorder and noise. In America, it refers specifically to what goes on in Stillwater when OSU plays its archrival OU.
The name comes from England’s Bethlem Royal Hospital which was also known as “Bedlam.” In 1675, Charles II gave permission for his physician-in-ordinary Sir Thomas Allen to visit the hospital and observe what went on inside.
Visitors of the past were suitably impressed by what they heard and saw, which prompted the term “Bedlam-like” to be used for such chaotic events as a Bedlam Oklahoma football game being played between OSU and OU.
What actually happens at Bedlam
In addition to what is going on outside the stadium, there is what goes on within. The student body has to “paint the town red” before Bedlam, a task that is usually accomplished by standing on top of every car in sight.
That normally results in thousands of dollars worth of damage – and insurance companies take note – but what’s a few dents and scratches compared to bragging rights for the rest of the year?
The players prepare for Bedlam too, doing what they can to get pumped up and ready to give it their best. Most of the time that includes yelling and screaming at one another in an attempt to motivate each other for what will be a do-or-die battle in front of what is usually a raucous crowd.
The visiting team will be going all out as well, especially if the Sooners are on the hunt for a conference title.
Highlights from Bedlam 2012
Bedlam 2012 was what could be described as the most successful Bedlam ever, with OSU winning 62-7.
It is definitely worth attending if you are an OU fan because of what usually happens. If you are an OSU fan, it is more proof that what goes around comes around. “Sooner Magic” sent away undefeated teams in 2000 and 2001 and Bedlam 2014 proved what “Cowboy Magic” can accomplish.
Predictions for bedlam 2015
Bedlam 2015 has a lot of history behind it, and what will happen is anyone’s guess. What we do know is that anything can happen when the Cowboys and Sooners meet on the gridiron, and what happens outside the stadium is as wild as what happens within.
What time is Bedlam 2015?
The 2015 Bedlam will take place November 28, at the Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman. That gives students and rabid fans plenty of time to come together for what is expected to be another year full of excitement and fun!
The game kicks off at 11:00 am Central Time and will be televised on ESPN. You can purchase tickets to this event online or by calling (800) 456-GoOU.
Conclusion
This year marks what could potentially be a historic event for OSU with what has been dubbed “Cowboy Magic.” It’s anyone’s guess what will happen in this year’s big game but it should prove to be another fun-filled day for avid fans of both schools!
