I agree, its hard to get excited about football in August, however my alma mater, LSU (rated #6) is playing Texas (#9) Saturday, I have to follow that one. Ratings this early in the season don't mean much... unless you're talking about Alabama... football... seems too warm...
I like growing hot peppers, they give you more return for less gardening space than most anything. In your part of the country you should be able to grow peppers the year round.i brought some out with me the other day to give away and wound up scoring a free pint after i gave a few to a curious patron. i've got to do these again next year... great conversation starters.