Did Governor Romney start his day with debate prep? Closed-door meetings? Maybe a relaxation technique? No to all three. Instead he played some flag football at the Romney family Turkey Bowl! Joined by his five sons, several staffers, and even one brave reporter, Romney put on a good showing.

The Republican presidential hopeful was a surprise guest to the game, at least for the journalists. He was swarmed by cameras, gave his sons hugs, and then got to work. . .well play that is. The former Massachusetts Governor often tells jokes on the trail about his lack of athletic ability usually when referencing the Salt Lake Olympics. But, he started the game strong and competitive as always. After a play on one end of the field Romney yelled, “This is not tackle. This is not tackle!” He ran up and down the field covered in sweat. Not bad for a 60 year old, of course Romney does run several times a week. Ann Romney said she isn’t sure what keeps her husband so young, maybe their five sons.

Some high level campaign staffers played with the Romney family including Ben Ginsburg, Eric Fehrnstrom, and Carl Forti. St. Petersburg mayor Rick Baker and only one reporter, Scott Conroy from CBS News, joined them. He later told me in an exclusive one on one that the Romneys really gave him a work-out, “That was a serious game. Every muscle in my body hurts.”

The Governor definitely got into the game and he wanted everyone to join in even teasing this intrepid reporter about not playing, “What’s wrong with Shush? Why isn’t she playing?” I fumbled through an excuse, not a very good one I may add.

Of course today is debate day and the recent Rudy vs. Romney slugfest is on everyone’s mind going into tonight. Matt Romney told me his dad is ready for the debate, but that it won’t be easy, “ I think he’ll do great. But, I think they are going to go after him they like to make him the target.” Matt added, “I think he’s got a target on his back.”

Click below to see the Romney family tear up the field!

per Shushannah Walshe

East Lansing, MI–

Governor Mitt Romney went tailgating with the Michigan State College Republicans this weekend. Supporters in blue and green turned up to shake the Governor’s hand and pledge their support.

Michigan State suffered a heartbreaking loss to the University of Michigan with a come from behind win. At least some MSU students got to meet a presidential candidate. Unfortunately, I’m not sure that that was much of a consolation to these football fans.