Miami (FL) - when I just started getting into college football, I didn't have a favorite team. I already liked the Dolphins in the NFL, so I jumped on the college team in the same city. That was back in the late 80's, so I guess you could call it sorta front-running, too.
Penn State - that's where I went to school.
If they're facing off, I'll root for whomever I feel has the chance to have a better year. Luckily, they don't face each other much these days.