Yay, fall! Not only are the leaves beginning to turn shades of red, yellow and brown, but it's tailgating and football time! I'm more partial to the tailgating aspect of the sport. However, as a native Nebraskan, I've basically been programmed since birth to follow Husker Football . Admittedly, though, I've always been more interested in the marching band  — Go Big Red ! 

Whatever team you're rooting for this fall, be it in football or another sport (or the marching band) you can learn something from their strategy. No team goes into a game without a plan. It takes lots of research, practice and dedication to get the win.

The same can be said of your financial world. It's best to have a game plan, more commonly known as a budget, to ensure you succeed.

For those of you who've just graduated, this is especially important. With your student loan grace period dwindling, the first payments toward your debt aren't far away. There is no time like the present to evaluate your financial obligations and determine the best plan of action.

Just like with sports, you can find resources to coach you through. Here's a great article  to consult when you're making your first budget or evaluating your current budget.

By sticking to the right game plan, you're sure to come out on top. Go team!