So, not without drama off the field, opening day, once again, did not disappoint the Idiots.

It all started with the weather forecast predicting heavy rain and wind for the coming Saturday and the group actually considered postponing the festivities in favor of an indoor gathering, while hopefully taking in the DC vs. Chivas game on ABC (which I later discovered was preempted due to the passing of the Pope). Drew had a small group of idiots believing that standing outside in the forecasted weather would lead to a battle with bubonic plague, while yours truly viewed it as a failure not to tailgate for the 10th consecutive opening day, regardless of weather. Jason, likely emailing from Vegas, was unselfish in his offer to postpone everything until the following home game.

The answer? We’re a bunch of friggin Idiots. Arriving at 2:30pm in the parking lot, we were welcomed by strong winds, wind swept rains and what we later learned to be an Extraordinary Meteorological Event (“EME”), thanks to the announcers at Giants Stadium. Personally, I’ve never lived through an EME, and I’m glad I did.

Keith, Brian and I were the first to arrive at the parking lot. After attempting to set up our canopy tent, we all had an appreciation for the wind gusts, which I imagine are typical when dealing with an EME. Each time I stepped out of the port-o-john in the parking lot, I expected to see the feet of a witch extending below the bottom.

We did barbeque, we did drink and we began what I’m certain will become a regular competition among the idiots: Chicken Wing Bone Tossing. Each of us had our own unique method, ranging from casual tosses to punts.

John showed up shortly after us with empanadas and aguardiente. Always dressed like he’s going clubbing after the game, this time his plan backfired. Jeans (yes, even those imported from Colombia) are not waterproof. But I digress. Empanadas, clearly, are meant to be consumed by the Gods. And while consuming thy unearthly pleasures, the idiots observed a sight equivalent to that of Moses parting the seas: Joey arrived early. Even while writing this, more then 24 hours later, I still can’t believe it. Flights must have been canceled due to the EME.

Anyway, the tailgate also marked the induction of Keith as a Senior Member, albeit a non-voting one. He was presented with first annual Most Valuable Idiot trophy for his contributions to the Idiots during the 2004 season. Please make sure to check out the historical pictures. A betting man would’ve wagered against Keith reaching this Senior Member Status, but with the EME, Joey arriving early and stomachs filled with empanadas, Keith was at the right place at the right time.

Ofer and little Joey appeared inside the stadium, huddled under the overhang to avoid the wrath of the EME.

As for the game, it was forgettable. The wind gusts (up to 40+ mph) made passing very difficult and the rain, together with the plastic field, made any bounce or pass unpredictable. Which brings to mind the predictable choke by the King, on a one v. one opportunity where if he took a shot any other place but right at the keeper, Metro would’ve likely held on to win.

This day also marked the new Idiot edict of “NO MEXICAN BEER” at the tailgate, which was unanimously passed during recent US vs. Mexico qualifier at Azteca.