By Scott Miller
2019 is here… and for the passionate Panhandle people who embrace the game of football like none other, well, it’s been a season for the ages. A record-setting season filled with offense, offense and more offense. The final four teams this year, Oklahoma, Notre Dame, Clemson and Alabama, scored a record 141 touchdowns combined and that doesn’t even count their Bowl games or the National Championship game. These four teams averaged a whopping 44 points per game combined. Yes, indeed, it’s been a year of offense like no season before and for the college football faithful, it sure has been fun to watch!
Football, it’s been said, is the ultimate team sport; having played for many years myself, I agree. However, I do feel that there are some individual performances worthy of mentioning. So be sure to read on in our January football guide for a list of this year’s standout, award winning players.
And though the college season is over, the good news for football fans is the Pro Football Playoffs are in full swing. And, oh my, do we have some exciting matchups coming our way. Could we have a re-match of Super Bowl LII, Patriots vs. Eagles? As of today, that’s a possibility. New England, in typical fashion, won its division and secured a first- round bye (9 years running), while the Eagles took the hard way into the playoffs needing both a win vs. the Redskins on the final week combined with a Bears win vs. the Vikings. Both happened and the reining Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles earned the right to defend their title.
No matter who you are rooting for, one thing remains: Destin has some of the absolute best places in the world to take in all the action. Your front row seat is waiting at any one of these incredible sports bars and restaurants right here in your own backyard:
Tailfins Entertainment Complex offers an incredible mix of atmosphere, countless big screen TV’s, delicious food and drink and amazing views of the harbor—a combination that’s hard to match anywhere. Try some of their world-famous dishes.
For starters, Smoked Tuna Dip, Crab Claws or Johnny’s Chicken Wings. Want seafood? Johnny’s Oysters or Oysters Tailfins are can’t miss. Other great choices include their delicious Sammiches,’ Baja Tacos or some amazing pasta dishes await you. There are just too many fabulous options to mention here, so go and see for yourself. Game day at Tailfins starts with brunch at 10 a.m. and ends with live music in the evenings. Make a day of it, bring your appetite and enthusiasm and we promise you’ll be glad you did.
On the Harbor in Destin
(850) 650-1200
tailfinsdestin.com
Landshark’s Pizza will satisfy football fans of all ages. With plenty of seating and TV’s everywhere you look, they have all you need for game day. The wings are a must, the pizza is outstanding, the bartenders are amazing, the atmosphere is exciting and the choice is easy to make. Landshark’s Pizza has something for everyone including plenty of parking out back. We recommend their amazing El Diablo Pizza or perhaps the Philly Cheese Steak Pizza—let your taste buds decide. Want wings? All their wing sauces are made in house; they are known as the bosses of sauces for a reason. How about a sandwich? Hot Ham & Cheese, Spicy Italian, The Glenn, a local’s favorite or maybe a 1/3 Pound Burger Basket is for you.
Be sure to bring your friends and make it a great day!
300 Harbor Blvd. Destin
(850) 424-6743
landsharkspizza.com
Tequila’s Sports Bar & Grill is your new destination for all sports. The festive atmosphere, friendly service and the food and drink served here will keep you coming back again and again. Inside, Tequila’s is like brand new. There are TV’s everywhere and a really nice bar in the middle. “2-for-1” margaritas combined with so many mouth-watering food selections to choose from make Tequila’s Sports Bar an easy choice for sports fans up and down the Emerald Coast. Order up the Tequila Fajitas while you watch—so good! Or perhaps some shrimp, steak or chicken on veggies with special seasoning. There’s plenty of choices on the menu for those who love Mexican fare and for those who don’t.
Come and see what all the buzz is about.
11225 U.S. 98 W.
Miramar Beach
(850) 279-6402
Island Wing Co. Grill & Bar voted “Best Wings” three years running is calling your name. Come in and enjoy the games, find your favorite beer among the 58 selections on tap and enjoy some of the tastiest food you’ve ever had, all while watching your team on the many big screen TV’s situated throughout this clean, open atmosphere. Bring your appetite, your game-time enthusiasm and enjoy award-winning Chicken Wings & Tenders served alongside eclectic takes on burgers, tacos, monster mac ‘n cheese, baked wings, crazy island burgers, island fresh seafood, healthy fare and much more Get “baked” at our local IWC. One visit will tell you why Island Wing Co. is a local’s favorite. Come and join in on the fun! Catering is available too!
981 US Hwy. 98, Destin
(850)837-2999
www.islandwing.com
Hog’s Breath Saloon, located in the heart of Destin, is a must-see destination for football fans of all ages. Big screen TV’s in every direction, a friendly staff like none other, delicious food and drinks are just a few reasons why we absolutely love this place. They offer great seafood, fresh smoked BBQ, daily food and drink specials, a fabulous kid’s menu, live music and handmade specialty drinks. And that’s just scratching the surface. You can sit upstairs, downstairs or dine outside on their spacious patio. We have no doubt that the entire family will have big fun. There is so much to do and see, you might have to come back again and again just to get the full effect only available here in Destin.
Visit Hog’s Breath Clothing for a world-famous T-shirt or souvenir and see for yourself why Hog’s Breath has been a local favorite since 1976.
541 Harbor Blvd. Destin
(850) 837-5991
www.hogsbreath.com
Championship Sunday
Sunday, January 20
NFC Championship, 2:05 pm (FOX)
AFC Championship, 5:40 pm (CBS)
Pro Bowl
Sunday, January 27
AFC All-Pros vs. NFC All-Pros, 2:00 pm (ABC / ESPN)
Super Bowl LIII
Sunday, February 3
AFC Champion vs. NFC Champion in Atlanta,
5:30 pm (CBS)
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