Round 2 of the Great American Tailgate challenge has arrived, and the bracket is heating up as 16 fan bases rally behind the foods that define their game‑day traditions. USA TODAY and the Pro Football Hall of Fame are once again spotlighting the dishes that make tailgating one of the most beloved rituals in sports — and after a spirited first round, the matchups have become even more compelling.
The challenge is a joint partnership between USA TODAY and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, who are teaming up for a nationwide celebration of the foods that define football culture across all 32 NFL cities.
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This stage of the competition features some of the most iconic regional clashes in the country. Arizona’s Sonoran carne asada tacos square off against Buffalo wings, setting up a battle between Southwest flavor and one of the most recognizable tailgate staples in America. Carolina’s Eastern Carolina pulled pork meets Cincinnati chili dogs in a showdown of two deeply rooted regional classics. And in one of the bracket’s most anticipated matchups, Dallas smoked brisket faces Green Bay bratwurst — a collision of Texas barbecue tradition and Wisconsin tailgate heritage.
The intensity continues across the board: Houston ribs vs. Kansas City burnt ends in a barbecue heavyweight bout; Las Vegas tri‑tip vs. LA street tacos in a West Coast rivalry; New England lobster rolls vs. New York sausage and peppers in an East Coast showdown; Philadelphia cheesesteaks vs. Pittsburgh Primanti‑style sandwiches in a Pennsylvania rivalry; and Tampa Cuban sandwiches vs. Tennessee hot chicken in a clash of two fan‑favorite staples.
Every vote cast not only helps your favorite tailgate food advance through the bracket — it also enters you into a giveaway for a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame merchandise gift card. One lucky fan will walk away with the chance to stock up on Hall of Fame apparel, collectibles, and memorabilia.
Round 2 is where momentum matters, rivalries intensify, and regional pride takes center stage. So step up, NFL fans. Cast your vote, rep your city, and help your favorite tailgate dish push one step closer to national glory. Bragging rights are on the line — and the road to Canton is only getting hotter.
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What to know about Great American Tailgate bracket challenge
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No purchase is necessary to vote or enter the giveaway.
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You must be 21 or older and a legal U.S. resident (excluding Hawaii and Puerto Rico).
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Each fan can cast one vote per round, per day.
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Every valid vote equals one entry into the giveaway for a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame gift card.
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Voting happens only on the SQWAD platform.
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The Sponsor may disqualify votes or voters for fraud, duplicate accounts, or suspicious activity.
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The food bracket winner receives recognition only — no prize.
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The giveaway winner will be notified around August 10, 2026.
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All disputes must be resolved through arbitration, as described in the official rules.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tacos vs. wings? Brisket vs. brats? NFL tailgate bracket heats up
