DOWNTOWN. A bit seedy ­ but cozily so ­ Bar-X tends to get a little rowdy at times, especially on game nights. An interesting mix of students and local armchair QBs crowds in on a nightly basis, looking to meet up with friends, down a few brews, and maybe even settle into a few orders of their favorite pub grub. If the conversation begins to lull (or gets drowned out by the blaring jukebox), then just head to the back and shoot a few games of pool.

SANDY. If you find yourself in Sandy on the day of the big game, head to this inviting sports bar, where you're sure to have a great time even if your team falls short. The kitchen produces a variety of options ideal for any appetite, from burgers and sandwiches to steaks and seafood. If you want to go the true macho route, you can even catch your own shellfish in a tank called the Lobster Zone. When it's warm out, diners can opt for a patio table ­ just make sure you can still see a television. After dinner, you'll definitely want to visit the games area, where you'll find pool tables, video games, dart boards, and the like.

SUGARHOUSE. Spend a relaxing evening among a friendly crowd in this establishment, a great place to catch the big game. Located in Sugarhouse, just outside of downtown, this lodge-style restaurant serves up downhome cooking ­ heaping plates of meatloaf, stir fries, salmon, and chicken-fried steak. With over 30 beers on tap, a 10-foot wide television, dartboards, and pool tables, this place caters to those who enjoy a sporty atmosphere. It's also a great place to meet new people who share common interests. Reservations are not necessary.

DOWNTOWN. A favorite with downtown's young professionals and students from the U of U, this cozy nightspot is upscale without being overly pretentious. Indeed, you'll likely find the slacks and sweater crowd sipping beer or mixed drinks and alternating between the patio area and the upstairs level, where bands play. Green Street is a private club, but temporary memberships are available.

DOWNTOWN. If you can't score tix for the big game, an excellent alternative is catching it on the big screens at Iggy's, one of SLC's favorite sports bars. Just like in the world of sports, everything here can be judged by the numbers: 20+ brews on tap, 21 television monitors, a 111-inch monster tube, and a mammoth 1-pound hamburger. All of this adds up to great fun. When you're ready for a break from the testosterone, walk around and take in the joint's cool atmosphere, which includes sports-related odds and ends.