And Why Costa Rica’s Calling Your Name
Hey football fans! If you’re like me, still buzzing from the electric start to the 2025 college football season, Week 1 delivered all the thrills, spills, and jaw-dropping upsets we crave. But imagine kicking back with a cold one, watching highlights (or even live games) amid lush rainforests and ocean breezes. That’s where Costa Rica comes in—specifically, the Sportsmen’s Lodge in San Jose. As someone who’s always scouting the next adventure, let me break down the gridiron action from last week, then spill why swapping your couch for a tropical escape could level up your fandom. Spoiler: September’s weather there is prime for post-game relaxation, and cheap flights make it a no-brainer.
The Wild Ride of Week 1: Upsets, Heroes, and Heartbreak
Last week’s kickoff (August 28-31) was pure chaos in the best way, shaking up preseason rankings faster than a Hail Mary pass. With top-10 clashes stealing the spotlight, it felt like the playoffs started early. Ohio State pulled off the stunner of the weekend, edging out No. 1 Texas 14-7 in a gritty defensive showdown that had Buckeyes fans roaring. Not to be outdone, Florida State shocked Alabama 31-17 on the road, exposing some early cracks in the Tide’s armor. And LSU saved the SEC’s bacon with a nail-biting 17-10 win over Clemson, proving they’re legit contenders.
Other highlights? Miami dominated Notre Dame in a Sunday night thriller, while South Carolina took down Virginia Tech in Atlanta. Iowa State’s Kyle Konrardy booted a record 63-yard field goal, and Auburn racked up 308 rushing yards to beat Baylor 38-24. Not every favorite escaped unscathed—Boise State got crushed 34-7 by USF, denting Group of 5 playoff dreams.
Conferences-wise, the Big Ten flexed with a 16-2 nonconference record, thanks to wins like Ohio State’s. The SEC went 14-2 but had a bumpy ride with those big losses. Overall, it reminded us: offseason hype means zilch until the pads clash.
Top 25 Breakdown: Who Rose and Who Fell?
Diving into the preseason AP Top 25 results (winners in bold, all times ET)
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No. 1 Texas fell to No. 3 Ohio State 14-7 (Saturday, noon).
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No. 2 Penn State 46, Nevada 11.
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No. 4 Clemson lost to No. 9 LSU 17-10.
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No. 5 Georgia 45, Marshall 7.
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No. 6 Notre Dame lost to No. 10 Miami (Sunday, 7:30 p.m.).
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No. 7 Oregon 59, Montana State 13.
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No. 8 Alabama lost to Florida State 31-17.
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No. 9 LSU 17, No. 4 Clemson 10.
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No. 10 Miami beat No. 6 Notre Dame.
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And the list goes on with strong showings from teams like Ole Miss (63-7 over Georgia State) and Texas Tech (67-7 rout).
Expect major ranking shakeups this week—Ohio State and Florida State are climbing, while Texas and Alabama slide.
Why Watch the Next Games from Costa Rica? Enter Sportsmen’s Lodge
Now, picture this: After digesting Week 1, you’re not glued to your living room TV. Instead, you’re at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in San Jose, Costa Rica—a revamped 1906 mansion turned ultimate sports haven. This spot is made for football lovers, with a buzzing bar packed with flat-screen TVs blasting American games, from college clashes to NFL Sundays. Grab a reasonably priced beer, dig into hearty grub like burgers or Tex-Mex, and cheer alongside fellow fans (and maybe some locals). It’s got that frat-house vibe with a tropical twist—no guest fees, free Wi-Fi, and even a fitness center to work off those game-day snacks.
What makes it extra nice? You’re steps from downtown San Jose’s entertainment district, but the lodge feels like a quiet escape. I’ve heard it’s a go-to for single travelers or groups seeking fun without the hassle—think built-in tours to rainforests or beaches if you need a break from the action. Watching highlights or live streams here, surrounded by Costa Rica’s vibe, turns a regular weekend into an epic getaway.
September Weather in Costa Rica: Rainy But Rewarding
September’s “green season” means afternoon showers are common, especially on the Pacific coast and Central Valley, with 10-20 inches of rain possible. But mornings are often sunny, temps hover around 75-88°F (24-31°C), and the lush scenery is at its peak—think vibrant forests and gushing waterfalls. The Caribbean side is drier, perfect for beach hopping. Pack a poncho, but embrace it: The rain keeps crowds low and prices down, making it ideal for a spontaneous trip.
Score Cheap Flights and Jet Off
From the US , flights to Costa Rica are a steal right now—round-trips to San Jose start at $134, with options under $250 for places like Liberia. Direct flights from hubs like Fort Lauderdale make it easy, and tools like Skyscanner can snag even better deals if you’re flexible. Why not book for Week 2 and catch games at the lodge?skyscanner+1
Week 1 set the stage for a wild season—stay tuned for more twists. If you’re feeling adventurous, Costa Rica and Sportsmen’s Lodge could be your perfect play. What’s your bold prediction for Week 2? Drop it in the comments!