RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesThe Championship Round of the Great American Tailgate challenge has arrived, and only two iconic foods remain in the battle to be crowned America’s Favorite Tailgating Dish. USA TODAY and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have guided fans through weeks of voting, regional pride, and unforgettable matchups.
After three intense rounds, the bracket has delivered a finale worthy of Canton.
Green Bay bratwurst enters the championship after a strong, confident win in the Final Four, reaffirming its place as one of the most enduring and beloved staples in football culture. Brats have powered through the bracket on the strength of Midwestern tradition, game‑day heritage, and a fan base that shows up every single round.
On the other side, Philadelphia cheesesteaks arrive as the bracket’s most dominant performer. Cheesesteaks surged through the semifinals with one of the widest margins of the round, continuing a streak of overwhelming support that has made them the food to beat since the opening vote. Few dishes carry the cultural weight, national recognition, and passionate fan backing that Philly brings into this final showdown.
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 .
Every vote cast not only helps decide the national champion — it also enters fans into a giveaway for a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame merchandise gift card. One lucky voter will walk away with the chance to stock up on Hall of Fame apparel, collectibles, and memorabilia.
This is it. Two foods. One title. Cast your vote, rep your city, and help decide which iconic tailgate dish earns a place in tailgating history.
Get your tickets now: Celebrate food, football at Hall of Fame with Great American Tailgate
Vote for your favorite tailgate food
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What to know about Great American Tailgate bracket challenge
No purchase is necessary to vote or enter the giveaway.
You must be 21 or older and a legal U.S. resident (excluding Hawaii and Puerto Rico).
Each fan can cast one vote per round, per day.
Every valid vote equals one entry into the giveaway for a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame gift card.
Voting happens only on the SQWAD platform.
The Sponsor may disqualify votes or voters for fraud, duplicate accounts, or suspicious activity.
The food bracket winner receives recognition only — no prize.
The giveaway winner will be notified around August 10, 2026.
All disputes must be resolved through arbitration, as described in the official rules.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tailgate title fight: vote your favorite and enter to win $1,000 prize
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