According to a senior economics major at the University of Maryland, the riot occurred as a release “of drunkenness and sexual energy.” Many students at the University began drinking alcohol eight to nine hours before game time. With the combination of adrenaline and beer, unrest was inevitable. Of course, this is no secret.

There is also the sense of deep loyalty to one’s college. Although only a few people started the bonfires and threw objects into the flames, hundreds of students stood by and cheered in approval. As a sophomore at Maryland told the campus newspaper The Diamondback, “It’s the first time people actually cared.” Although it may sound strange, these riots are becoming the only true uniting force on large, state school campuses. The students are brought together, either by victory or defeat. A sense of school spirit arrises out of destruction. A freshman at Georgetown University believes the students at Maryland, “wanted a reason to join in and feel part of the group. They wanted to feel young and crazy.” In fact, even though Maryland lost to Duke in the semi-finals, students still chanted, “Go Terps,” as they threw furniture into the bonfires.

You do not have to be a psychologist to know that most college students like to participate in wild behavior. Riot squads, fire trucks and news station helicopters are exciting for students who are constantly caught in the routine of classes, papers, and exams.

However, the Prince George’s County community, which surrounds the University of Maryland, will not allow alcohol and school spirit to excuse the significant amount of personal property damaged during the riot. Three students have been arrested by county police for setting and stoking the fires. In a letter of apology to the community, Vice President of Student Affairs Linda Clement wrote, “Individuals alleged to be involved in criminal activities related to these events will be subject to appropriate criminal and disciplinary action.” The police are still reviewing photographs and videotapes to identify implicated students.

As these riots begin to increase on campuses across the country, university officials are desperately trying to find ways to redirect students’ adrenaline after sports games. Many universities are going to experiment with after-game festivities. Honestly, that’s like giving a high school student the option of attending an alcohol-free post prom party when their friends are rolling out the kegs at a local motel. While these riots are inexcusable and extremely destructive, no easy solution exists. It is a simple fact that most college students get a quick rush from rebellious behavior. Through the riots, they are able to make a statement to our society–”We can do whatever we want, whenever we want. Go Terps go!”