Watch pigskin and shed pork

It's finally football season, and you know what that means, right?

Yep, our stomachs only have a few more months to prepare for the scrumptious Super Bowl spread.

But since I'm hoping to look more like a svelte receiver than a beefy lineman come February, here are some tips on how we can enjoy the pigskin season without pigging out and plumping up:

At the stadium

Park in a stall far, far away: As if you had any other choice, right? Walking for 15-to-infinity minutes will help you burn enough calories to munch guilt-free on a handful of your buddy's popcorn. Frantically avoiding getting crushed by impatient drivers can help you justify swiping two handfuls.

Scout the opposition: Not the one your team is playing, but the food foes lurking in the concession stands. Most stadiums offer some healthful selections nowadays. Coincidentally, they also usually have people offering new credit-card accounts to help you afford it.

Share the fare: You can still have some cotton candy, a pretzel and a hot dog. Just don't have two of each. Better yet, split the tab and the meal with your buddy.

At the sports bar

Play chicken: Know how Buffalo wings usually come with blue cheese and celery sticks — and only the latter resembles anything sorta healthy? Try this: Ask for a grilled chicken breast and some wings sauce on the side.

Water it down: Beer's not a problem for me — I just act drunk sometimes during games. I save liquid calories by gulping Diet Coke by the gallons. Experts say water is best, so I make sure the bartender throws in some ice cubes.

If you do need some liquid courage

(a k a alcohol) to help you get through another season, opt for the light versions. But beware: These are empty calories. And, of course, ask the bartender to add a couple of chunks of ice in it to make it a health drink.

Go green! It may not sound manly, but order a salad (minus the cheese, croutons, taco shell, full-fat dressings, etc.). Have the lower-fat dressing on the side and dip your fork in it to minimize damage.

And if anybody gives you grief for eating rabbit food, pretend you're the QB, their face is the receiver and the cherry tomatoes are the ball.

At home