Tailgating game plan

Beef

Sausages and/or bratwurst: Go spicy or root for the Bengals.

Burgers: Please, please, please do not buy frozen patties. Take the time to shape your own. Mix chunks of Cheddar or crumbled bleu cheese in the ground beef to impress the other cooks on the lot.

Buns: This is where your tailgate can flop. Consider buns the offensive line of the tail-gating team: You need quality in the trenches to let your super-stars shine. Those beautiful brats can't realize their full potential on lame, store-brand buns.