First let me say that it is great to see the varied ages of the people on here, and the different perspectives. Even at 68, a couple of you have made me feel not quite so old.
For me, January 1, 1979. My abbreviated college career from 65-67 was at MTSU. After spending the next 2 years in olive drab, I enjoyed football, and moderate betting on same, but never developed a single team allegiance. Moving to Florence in 75 changed that. I was quickly advised by a Alabama State Trooper that I met through my work, that I would be making a choice and he strongly suggested that it be Crimson. To this day I believe that I would have had numerous run ins with the law had I not heeded his advice. I routinely met with a gentleman on Friday and we would make 5 small wagers on 5 games, then on Mondays we'd meet and argue about why we won/lost. It most always was a 3-2 result and little money changed hands. At the end of the 78 season, I chose Penn State against Alabama for a substantial amount for the time, about 3 mortgage payments. Two powerful things happened watching that game. The entire game, but of course most of all the goal line stand, cemented my fandom. The other was that the loss of funds ended my gambling forever. I look at them both as equally important. When we settled the bet, my gambling friend handed me a National Championship shirt and said he expected me to have had to sell the shirt off my back to come up with the money. I still have that flimsy little well worn shirt and have it in my hand during most stressful games. No, of course I can't still fit into it!! Roll Tide!!