It was 2007, and I was in my first year of teaching at Hampton High School in Virginia. Though I was teaching freshmen, it was not long before I learned the name that echoed in the hallway: Tyrod Taylor. The Senior football star left a legacy in that school, and I’ve been following his career ever since.

If you asked me 2 years ago, I would have scoffed at the mention of the NFL and left the conversation bored and somewhat bitter. I was raised a Bills fan, by genetics and proximity, but I was really only in it for the food. Though I’m still in it for the food, I’m now in it for Tyrod.

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When word hit the street that Tyrod had been signed by the Bills – MY Hampton High School’s Tyrod – I began what has now become true NFL fandom. I am late to the game, but I’ve participated in 3 Fantasy Football leagues to date, and my Bills wardrobe has taken over my closet. Scott had an awful time last year trying to convince me not to make Tyrod my 1st draft, as I believed this guy was the biggest thing to happen to the Bills in years.

tyrodtaylor-3I never understood the enthusiasm and obsession that football fans have for their teams and favorite players. Now I get it. Scott and I talk Bills all the time, and it’s fun to be part of the Buffalo Bills fan family. Dedicated, loyal to a fault, and just so much love behind this team.

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Scott during last year’s Storm Jonas in Virginia

Just a week ago, my dad surprised me with a signed football helmet by Tyrod Taylor himself, making it my first autographed piece of sports memorabilia (INSERT SQUEAL). I’ll be donning my brand new #5 Taylor jersey today (Scott surprised me this week!) and sporting all of my favorite bills gear. I’ll be indulging in a feast of game day guacamole, and rooting for the Bills, along with the whole of Western New York.

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Everywhere I turn, the Bills are there. On shirts and caps all over the city, on products in the grocery store, and loyal fans fill our feeds all year long. It’s amazing, truly; the love this city has for their team, and I’m proud to now be a part of it.

Nothing left to say, but GO TYROD, and GO BILLS!!!