Just a few minutes ago, the party went from 10 people to 30. Among the tailgaters — Rod Laver, the first man to win the Grand Slam in tennis, and John McEnroe said Laver is the greatest  tennis player ever, and that’s good enough for me … Jay Paris, whom I have known for 20 years; he is a very good sports columnist for the North County Times; Bernie Wilson of the Associated Press, a fine reporter and a funny guy … Jim Stone, a local sports anchorman in San Diego … some of Laver’s family — Ann, Kip  and Rick … Paul Loop and his son Nate;  Paul used to work for the Register, now works for another fine periodical … Bill Prall, who goes to more  sports events than anyone I know … Eric Sense, an OC  chiropractor who played pro football in Europe … and plenty of others. A fine group. The beverages are flowing, energy is up!

– Steve Fryer

Burgers are grilling, and so are the hot dogs. Now, this is very standard fare for us. At past games, we have grilled scallops; shrimp; veggies; steak; pork chops; and fajitas. My son Sean is home from school on the East Coast, where he is playing football, and a teammate of his, Dan Jones, is with us. Dan’s first trip to California. He enjoyed the ride down the coast. I pointed out Trestles, San Onofre, Batiguitos, etc. out to him. Sean showed him Carl’s Jr. and Del Tacos. Those are major landmarks for Sean — typical offensive lineman!

My wife Cathie and I lost are first game of Chuckers. Her brother Bill and his wife Karen beat us. They cheated.

Still no rain!!!

One of my nephew’s best friends, Mike McCormick, came by to say hello. He is a huge Raiders fan. He looks confused, not having been to a playoff  game in such a long time.

– Steve Fryer

We made it in the parking lot quite easily as usual. It’s quite a scene …

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Southbound on the 5 freeway … no rain at the moment, but the forecast calls for plenty of showers. On the way to Qualcomm Stadium — or “The Murph” as some of us call it, back when it was named Jack Murphy Stadium (after a good-old veteran newspaper guy … when I am not in the press box, I hang out in front of Jack’s bust/statue at halftime).

I am wondering if Vince Young will play for Tennessee. It looks like a few Titans will be out.

OK, I will be checking in later, when we get in the lot. The lot at Qualcomm is a very cool party scene for every game, but one — when the Raiders play in San Diego, and bring their freak-show fans with them. Too many of them try to pick fights all game long. They come through our tailgate party causing trouble. It’s true that not all Raider fans are jerks. But that team draws this “dark-side” element that I can never understand.

– Steve Fryer

On the way to