AUGUSTA, Ga. -- If you were passing by the Kroger on Washington Road, you probably thought some of those college teams were tailgating at the wrong place. That’s because the Salvation Army of Augusta held its annual “Kettle Kick Off” to start the 2011 Red Kettle Season.

Some of the college football teams represented were Georgia Southern, Georgia Tech, UGA, USC and Clemson.

Each group of volunteers consisted of fans, alumni and boosters competing for the most donations. Last year’s winners were the Bulldogs.

Donations from Red Kettle Season will benefit services like the homeless shelter and soup kitchen of the Salvation Army.

The season will last until Dec. 24, and these college football fans say contributions should be made for a great cause, even if you’re not a college football fan.