But clearly, it was longer for some. As VIPs took pictures on stage with the "GameDay" cast immediately following the show, workers began dismantling everything they could. The area slowly emptied, leaving in its wake a mountain of trash and discarded signs — so many signs, which the show has become famous for — left by the masses.
Close to the stage were the students. As mentioned, they began gathering Friday afternoon, staking their claim. They were rewarded with orange construction helmets — provided by the show's title sponsor. But much like the fake MLB helmets we donned as kids, it's doubtful this headgear would protect one from either a 90 mph fastball or a wayward two-by-four.