Hear them roar: College Football's top 10 die-hard fan bases

To some, college football is a sport. To others, it's a religion.

As the season draws closer, here's a look at the fans who were there from the start. Win or lose, these followers flock to the gridiron despite the weather conditions or their team's record.

Here's a list of the top 10 die-hard fan bases in the nation:

Michigan

Aside from the fact that the Big House is one of America's most historic stadiums, this Michigan fan base had a tough time enjoying it last season. They lost their starting quarterback, their head coach, they rallied to get the athletic director removed, and overall, the Wolverines were downright awful a year ago.

Nevertheless, these fans will still pack the stadium, vying for a bounce-back season with a new head coach, new jerseys, and renewed hope.

Alabama

Winning is what makes Tuscaloosa go 'round. Alabama fans will always be Alabama fans, through the successes and long after the team eventually stumbles, if it ever does.

Nick Saban is the conductor of the orchestra that is the Crimson Tide fan base, and the choir will continue to rattle Bryant-Denny Stadium whenever an opponent comes to town.

Ohio State

The Buckeyes have a unique personality ingrained within the confines of Ohio Stadium. There's numerous professional sports teams in Cleveland, and even more college teams. But through and through, the Buckeyes captivate not only the state, but the entire nation, when it matters most.

Auburn

Auburn is special because of how it excels despite sharing a backyard with Alabama. Auburn is a standout, refusing to live in the shadows of the Crimson Tide. On any given day, a trip to Auburn can make for an instant classic, making Tigers fans some of the best in the country.

Florida State

Whenever a story of controversy surfaces at FSU, these fans are the first to jump in and defend their squad. The Seminoles own the state, yes, even against their in-state rivals, Florida.

It's tough to envision the team losing in the near future, and no matter where you go in the country, there's a Florida State fan lurking somewhere close.

Notre Dame

The Fighting Irish are, without a doubt, one of the most widely known teams in all of college sports. Their fans endured a difficult season, and it's unknown whether they'll be able to turn it around behind quarterback Malik Zaire.

But win or lose, the Notre Dame fan base never falters, supporting their squad since their inaugural game in 1887.

LSU

A sleeper in the SEC, the reason Death Valley is so daunting is because of the roaring Tigers fans that fill the seats every season. LSU followers are a cult, making them a fun team to watch. It also helps that they have impact players that keep you coming back, despite fans scaring opposing supporters away with their generally imposing figure.

Oregon

Some would argue that Marcus Mariota put Oregon on the map, and although some believe that to be true, Ducks fans have always been there. Sure, now they'garner more attention in Oregon - despite Mariota's departure - but the view of Autzen Stadium with fans dressed in bright Ducks colors make them the most dominating school in the Northwest.

Penn State

Penn State fans love their football, exemplified by the fact they boosted Beaver Stadium's average attendance by more than 5,000 per game last season. It's tough to argue that Nittany Lions alumni, fans, and students aren't the best out there, given the increase was the third-highest among schools in the top 25 in average.

Texas A&M

The Aggies will call a new and improved Kyle Field home from now on. To showcase just how much the home crowd loves the team, three days of celebrating has been scheduled to mark the reopening of the stadium.

That's right, three days of enjoying a football stadium. Anything for the original "12th Man."