It is really so lame. I think a true NCAA div 1 playoffs could eventually rival the NFL playoffs and Super Bowl even and yet we are still up with this charade system.Among the conspiracy theories I hold onto is that the NFL finds ways to keep this bowl system going, if only to ensure college football is done by the time the NFL playoffs roll around. NFl also likes that lull before the bowl games when the pros are the only football going. The NFL likes having a near free farm system, but has become a little leery at seeing the college game seriously rival the NFL for popular appeal.

[QUOTE=Commandant;60834711]

Autzen Stadium (cap. 54,000), Eugene, OR:
http://tom.nosleep.net/photos/autzen.jpg

Auzten is cool, saw some big concerts there back in the '80s.
Go Ducks!

I think their best bet would be to build an upper deck on the current press box side identical to the current one. Then build a new press box and suite area over the current upper deck and connect it to the Lindner center. I would imagine the upper deck now holds something like 10,000, so adding an identical one would bring the capacity up to 45,000.

I drew something up on Sketch-up real quick (I'm no good on Photoshop lol) to try to explain it a little better.

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4797/nippert.jpg

http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/372/nippert2.jpg

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/7522/nippert3.jpg

That won't work. They can't build a new press box on top of the the existing pavilion on the East side of the stadium for two main reasons. There is barely enough clearance on the north end of the stadium between the existing pavilion structure and the Lindner Center as is. It wouldn't work if they just tried to replicate the current press box but placed it on the east side. The current box runs from 30 to 30 and is probably around 40 feet at its widest point, trying to place a similar structure on top of the pavilion which extends 50 plus feet beyond the edge of the lower bowl isn't physically possible. You could probably build something up there, but it wouldn't be symmetrical which defeats the function the press box. Trying to add a new modern press box with suites included is not feasible on the east side unless they use the space under the current pavilion, which I would imagine they will do when/if they expand.

The other reason there can't be a modern press box/luxury suites tower on the east side is that there is no way to construct it without obstructing the fire lane between the stadium and the Lindner Center. That area behind the stands is already very congested and gamedays, adding a maze of support columns would only make things worse. I suppose that they could attempt a cantilevered deck to create two concourses on that side of the stadium and support some of the weight of the tower, but I have no idea where they would place the counterweights which would be massive.

Aside from converting the space on the edge of the lower bowl into luxury boxes or loge seats there isn't much that can be done on the east side. I think that the best and only way forward would be to knock down the current, outdated pressbox and the walls surrounding the west side of the stadium. Then build a two level structure on the edge of the lower bowl running from 20 to 20, luxury suites on the first level, press and coaches boxes on the second. Then build the upper deck seating, similar to the original pavilion, on top of that structure. To access the upper deck construct two pedestrian bridges connecting to TUC behind the stadium. The finished look of the thing wouldn't be dissimilar to Florida Field if you look at the position of the old press box relative to the new press tower.

http://www.eventchaser.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/gators.jpg

Or Ohio Stadium looking at the area between the 1st and 2nd decks of the horseshoe but at a smaller scale.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/6/68730752_c696f6ef45_b.jpg

That meets the need for new luxury seating options while expanding the stadium's capacity. additionally it will maintain the fire lane behind the stadium while keeping intact the passageway behind the stadium that is one of the primary thoroughfares for students living on the south and west sides of campus. In all reality UC has one chance to expand so they have to do it properly. I just don't see any other way to do it other than revamping the west side of the stadium.

My only concern would be the possible downside for fan travel to 4 neutral site contests, ... it would seem weird if an early round playoff game between Florida and Bowling Green, played somewhere like Nashville, didn't sell out.Your particular scenario would likely sell out. Even with a worst case match-up, I'd say there's a 75% chance that all the games would sell out from local interest alone, then add in those that travel. . . If the games are picked like in the NCAA tournament, location will be a factor. (like how Duke, UNC, UCLA, etc. always start close to home)

I am a fan of the 8 team scenario. The six winners from the majors and two at large bids to be voted by rankings.Who decides what conferences are "major"? Why does a team have more access just because of who they surrounded themselves with 50+ years ago? Do Iowa State and Vanderbilt deserve greater access than Boise St., ECU, Houston, etc.? (Don't tell me "that's what the at-large bids are for" because there could be 3+ teams outside of the 6 that are all more deserving than those conference's champions.)

Who decides what conferences are "major"? Why does a team have more access just because of who they surrounded themselves with 50+ years ago? Do Iowa State and Vanderbilt deserve greater access than Boise St., ECU, Houston, etc.? (Don't tell me "that's what the at-large bids are for" because there could be 3+ teams outside of the 6 that are all more deserving than those conference's champions.)

Yes of course there will always be an arbitrary line as the same could e said about classifying divisions 1, 1a, 2, 3 in college athletics. Are we to think that every year that there will never be lower division teams that can knock of D-1 schools? There is no perfect system to decide who should or shouldn't be allowed to compete on a yearly basis.

That is why I think having at least having two spots open to voters which allow for the eye test to let teams outside the powerhouses to compete would be necessary to the format.

IMO, the best solution would be a 4-team post-BCS playoff, with the semis hosted at the top two remaining seeds and the NCG being played on MLK weekend.

That, or expand it to 12 teams, with the top 4 conference champions receiving a bye to the BCS bowls and the other 4 hosting the 4 at-larges in the first round, kind of like the NFL.

Best of both worlds.

Glass Bowl (cap. 26,248), Toledo, OH:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_toledo.jpghttp://farm4.static.flickr.com/3125/3468626909_a38c61c3fa_b.jpg

Ryan Field (cap. 49,256), Evanston, IL:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_northwestern.jpg

Memorial Stadium (cap. 81,067), Lincoln, NE:
http://images.topix.com/gallery/up-9202431901FUHS9J.jpg

Husky Stadium (cap. 72,500), Seattle, WA:
http://projects.ischool.washington.edu/tabrooks/598INFXWinter10/huskyStadium.jpg

Husky Stadium (cap. 72,500), Seattle, WA:
http://projects.ischool.washington.edu/tabrooks/598INFXWinter10/huskyStadium.jpg

is this an outdated photo? I thought they removed the track

Not yet, they are hoping to rebuild the entire lower level, including lowering the field and adding in club seats, a new press box ect. but they have yet to get money for any of it.

LaVell Edwards Stadium (cap. 64,045), Provo, UT:
http://www.ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_byu.jpg

Folsom Field (cap. 53,750), Boulder, CO:
http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/9355410.jpghttp://media.lawrence.com/img/croppedphotos/2009/10/07/CU_FB_t640.jpg?a6ea3ebd4438a44b86d2e9c39ecf7613005fe067http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_colorado.jpg

Jones AT&T Stadium (cap. 53,744), Lubbock, TX:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_texastech.jpg

Faurot Field (cap. 68,349), Columbia, MO:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_missouri.jpg

Camp Randall Stadium (cap. 80,321), Madison, WI:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_wisconsin.jpg

Folsom Field (cap. 53,750), Boulder, CO:
http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/9355410.jpghttp://media.lawrence.com/img/croppedphotos/2009/10/07/CU_FB_t640.jpg?a6ea3ebd4438a44b86d2e9c39ecf7613005fe067http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_colorado.jpg


In my 100% completely unbiased opinion (wink wink, nudge nudge :D): Far and away the best stadium in College football on a number of levels

Scenery: See the pretty Flatirons in the background?
Location: Right in the heart of campus
Intimacy: You can practically reach out and touch the players on the field (and high five them too)
Quality of play: Okay, so we're working on that...

Mackay Stadium (cap. 29,993), Reno, NV:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_nevada.jpg

Aloha Stadium (cap. 50,000), Honolulu, HI:
http://www.ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_hawaii.jpg

Reynolds Razorback Stadium (cap. 76,000), Fayetteville, AR:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_arkansas.jpg

Commonwealth Stadium (cap. 67,606), Lexington, KY:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_kentucky.jpg

Kinnick Stadium (cap. 70,585), Iowa City, IA:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_iowa.jpg

Memorial Stadium (cap. 62,143), Champaign, IL:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_illinois.jpg

John B. and June M. Scheumann Stadium (cap. 22,500), Muncie, IN:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_ballstate.jpg

Beaver Stadium (cap. 107,282), State College, PA:
http://thatfan.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/beaverstadium.jpeg

UB Stadium (cap. 29,013), Amherst, NY:
http://admissions.buffalo.edu/images/counselors/easbie_main.jpg

Doyt L. Perry Stadium (cap. 24,000), Bowling Green, OH:
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_bowlinggreen.jpg

Carter-Finley Stadium (cap. 57,583), Raleigh, NC:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/de/Carter-Finley_Stadium_1.jpg/800px-Carter-Finley_Stadium_1.jpghttp://www.statefansnation.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/3177841035_05ff45150e_b.jpg

Yes of course there will always be an arbitrary line as the same could e said about classifying divisions 1, 1a, 2, 3 in college athletics.

Those lines between divisions aren't arbitrary. They play by a different set of rules concerning scholarships. AQ and non-AQ teams play by the exact same set of rules. Currently there is an "arbitrary" line exists that ultimately says that Vanderbilt is more deserving than Boise St. because their president aligned them in the SEC in 1932. And if Villanova jumps to FBS, then they'll have greater access than teams infinitely better than them.

Most importantly, why does there always have to be this arbitrary line? No other division of FB has it. Not even NCAA basketball has it. While there are biases towards a conference, each conference has the same amount of access. This isn't the same in the BCS right now.

I'm not looking for a handout for teams. Just an equal level of access. Let teams prove their worth on the field, not through politics.

/OT

Those lines between divisions aren't arbitrary. They play by a different set of rules concerning scholarships. AQ and non-AQ teams play by the exact same set of rules.
So that is assuming that a team with X scholarships will always be able to beat a team with a lower amount of Y scholarships? These are presumptions are categorizing based on presumptions is inherently arbitrary in that such presumptions can't be proven every time unless they are tested everytime.
Currently there is an "arbitrary" line exists that ultimately says that Vanderbilt is more deserving than Boise St. because their president aligned them in the SEC in 1932. And if Villanova jumps to FBS, then they'll have greater access than teams infinitely better than them.
BCS conferences pull in and distribute more money then the other conferences . In terms of being competitive I see that not being much less important then the standards of number of scholarship, enrollment, a host of other categories one could want to divide up divisions and conferances.
Most importantly, why does there always have to be this arbitrary line? No other division of FB has it. Not even NCAA basketball has it. While there are biases towards a conference, each conference has the same amount of access. This isn't the same in the BCS right now.
I am a for a playoff system. I am for a playoff that involves teams outside of the major conferences. However failing to acknowledge that there are income generating conferences that are more so then other conferences isn't reflecting reality.
The fact is that there will always be teams on the margins who think on their best day they can compete. Its not realistic to have a playoff involving everybody so its best to use the eye test against those in the majors, if any are deserving in a given year.

I haven't seen many Sun Belt stadiums on here, which I think are some of the best small stadiums in college football. A couple will likely be re-posts in this thread.

ASU Stadium (30,964) Arkansas State University
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_arkansasstate.jpg

FAU Stadium (est. completion Fall 2011) Florida Atlantic University
http://www.fauowlsnest.com/itb/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/stadiumrenderingsaerial.jpg

FIU Stadium (20,000) Florida International University (unimpressive, but it's the first phase of many)
http://www.southernbleacher.com/images/facilities/universities/football/FL_FIU/fiu1_l.jpg

Cajun Field (31,000) University of Louisiana-Lafayette
http://image.cdnl3.xosnetwork.com/pics31/640/XN/XNZZGWXKUJRKGJA.20100616210146.jpg
The first field to be known as "The Swamp" as the field is below grade, and would often flood. Enhanced drainage and pumping has eliminated that issue.

Malone Stadium (30,427) University of Louisiana-Monroe
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_lamonroe.jpg

Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium (31,000) Middle Tennessee State University
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_mtsu.jpg

New North Texas Stadium (32-35,000) U/C to open in 2011 (construction thread: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=716944 )
http://www.meangreensports.com//pics21/1024/GG/GGQXJLTRKSOHASA.20090730215918.jpg

Ladd Peebles Stadium (40,646) University of South Alabama (joins FBS football in 2012)
http://southgaeagle.younce.net/images/stadiums/laddpeebles.jpg

Veterans Memorial Stadium (30,000) Troy University
http://www.troy.edu/magazine/archives/Summer2008/images/stadium.jpg

Houchens Industries – L. T. Smith Stadium (22,000) Western Kentucky University
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3478/3462712141_a98c3d15f8.jpg
I've never been able to find a better pic of the new renovations.

So that is assuming that a team with X scholarships will always be able to beat a team with a lower amount of Y scholarships?

...However failing to acknowledge that there are income generating conferences that are more so then other conferences isn't reflecting reality.

You're talking about conferences instead of teams. Teams are the ones that play for championships, not the conferences. AQ teams often are outpaced by non-AQ teams at the gate and in merchandise. They are still deemed more worthy than others, based solely upon their conference association. Their association which often was decided in a time when athletic accomplishment had little to no bearing on their inclusion.

And: There aren't arbitrary lines between divisions. They play by a different set of rules. Plain and simple. There aren't different rules between AQ and non-AQ teams, but some are still arbitrarily held in higher regard based upon the company they keep, instead of their

Just announced: Developer for the rennovation of Husky Stadium selected.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskyfootballblog/2012557511__selected_as_husky_stadium_dev.html

Just announced: Developer for the rennovation of Husky Stadium selected.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskyfootballblog/2012557511__selected_as_husky_stadium_dev.html

http://www.section247sportsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Husky-Stadium-Renovation-2.jpg
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_front1.png
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_21.png
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_5.png
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_4.png
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_3.png
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_6.png

Current
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/08/06/2012557583.jpg

Alumni Stadium (cap. 44,500), Chestnut Hill, MA:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tfvq5ifjZEI/TCnzHNHBTZI/AAAAAAAAA8g/UIqmcAHQnyU/s1600/stadiums_bostoncollege.jpghttp://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/24/Alumni_Stadium_panorama.jpg/800px-Alumni_Stadium_panorama.jpg

Byrd Stadium (cap. 51,500), College Park, MD:
http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/md/galleries/md-facilities/byrd-lg.jpg

Memorial Stadium (cap. 62,143), Champaign, IL:
http://www.collegefootballfansite.com/images/stadiums/UofIllinois_.jpg

Going for some pre-renovation pics on those last two. Memorial stadium in particular looks quite a bit different these days.

Byrd Stadium (cap. 51,500), College Park, MD:
http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/md/galleries/md-facilities/byrd-lg.jpg

Memorial Stadium (cap. 62,143), Champaign, IL:
http://www.collegefootballfansite.com/images/stadiums/UofIllinois_.jpg
Both look quite different after renovations/additions:

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OhgBSd30riI/SoDUV3r5fJI/AAAAAAAAAWA/3cRd4tTsGBw/DSCN0392.JPG

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/3103494072_e880fb3324_b.jpg

http://www.section247sportsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Husky-Stadium-Renovation-2.jpg
http://tendonitis.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/huskystadiumrenovation_front1.png

Current
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/08/06/2012557583.jpg

Googling the topic, it seems these are old renderings from back when they were trying to get money from the state for the project. The latest plan has not yet been released as far as I can tell.

No the just announced a new architect and a contractor. 360 Architects got the contract, these older ones were from Populous, so I'm sure it will change, though based on their recent work I'm not overly optimistic about how it will change.

W00t! UW and WSU will now both get renovations. Can't wait.


p.s. I love this thread. I always see a new stadium everytime I visit.

Conference USA:

East:

ECU
http://i36.tinypic.com/2w5u9ms.jpg

Marshall
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_marshall.jpg

UCF
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_centralflorida.jpg

UAB
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3204/2895920233_1553bb07a7.jpg

Southern Miss
http://www.jhharchitects.com/var/uploads/c14f1d9012354288922804

Memphis
http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/demling/uploaded_images/liberty-746511.jpg

West:

Tulane
http://members.cox.net/renegade_sith2/miscjunk/superdome-2006.jpg

Houston
http://graphics.fansonly.com/schools/hou/graphics/Robertson_CUSA-Champ.jpg

Rice
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/16/Rice_University_Stadium.jpg

Tulsa
http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/7969/28399691.jpg

SMU
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_smu.jpg

UTEP
http://ncaafootball.com/image_lib/stadiums_utep.jpg

You mean the upper tiers are different lengths from the lower tiers, or that the two upper decks appear to have different lengths from each other?

From all the pictures I've seen both upper decks are the same length and they essentially match the length of the field. If the open corners are bowled in to match the closed end of the stadium, you'd see the same extension out of the lower tier for several yards before angling towards the end zone seating, creating the same effect on either side of the upper tiers.

As to the one upper side having a different form than the other I think that becomes forgiven if/when the lower tier is bowled in, but I'm not entirely against it as is. Each new addition had different objectives than the other.

One man's opine.

This is very true. The first upper deck was mainly to build the press box and add seating in the 1970s. The second was mainly to add luxury boxes in the early 2000s. Of course, these types of expansions will look different.

The south end zone had not been bowled in for many years, originally due to the baseball stadium encroaching upon its space. When the space became available to expand, Oklahoma was a running team, and they did not want to mitigate the effect of the wind on play. Now, they've built their athletic center underneath the stand, and the stand itself is not at angle with the rest of the lower deck.

This is very true. The first upper deck was mainly to build the press box and add seating in the 1970s. The second was mainly to add luxury boxes in the early 2000s. Of course, these types of expansions will look different.

The south end zone had not been bowled in for many years, originally due to the baseball stadium encroaching upon its space. When the space became available to expand, Oklahoma was a running team, and they did not want to mitigate the effect of the wind on play. Now, they've built their athletic center underneath the stand, and the stand itself is not at angle with the rest of the lower deck.

I've been to quite a few games there, and I think if they really wanted to, they could deconstruct that stand, build a new one that connects on level with the rest of the lower stand, and still not interfere with the new football facility. Of course they'd also have take down the new scoreboard, but to be honest there's really no problem with the stand as it is, I think it looks fine. (Plus the steepness of the stand makes for a good weekend workout of stadium steps)

That said, I'd be more for a re-design of the old upper deck when the new press box is eventually constructed. Maybe wrap it all the way around the end zone to match the newer side.

SANFORD STADIUM. ATHENS, GEORGIA

http://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/12708935.jpg

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4g7agbPaQlA/SwiMHRf_CiI/AAAAAAAAALw/Gs3VEwM66nI/s1600/2009-11-21+19.49.37.jpg

KYLE FIELD COLLEGE. STATION, TEXAS

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ifNQXc9J-dw/SxLzL7Qux5I/AAAAAAAABT4/y4mcxhOjP3Y/s1600/Panorama+-+Texas+vs.+aTm+-+11.26.2009.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e5/Kyle_Field_Montana_State_vs_A%26M_Sept_1_2007.jpg

http://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/17411878.jpg

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/476052/football-stadium-colorado-061009-lw.jpg

http://www.huskerspot.com/images/wallpaper/Memorial-Stadium1024x768.jpg

http://community.webshots.com/photo/fullsize/1109571133048152254ddfILD

http://philfaciana.com/pics/casey/2010rosebowl%20055.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4501997608_c600d1ff6b_b.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_vzek1PRmzsw/SV-if2OqRoI/AAAAAAAABik/03BqzZv0g3c/s720/IMG_0426.JPG

Aggieland and Sanford look very imposing. Awesome.

UW releases new renderings of Husky Stadium Renovations:

Seattle times article:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskyfootballblog/2012794554_huskystadium03.html

Flyover:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskyfootballblog/2012795187_more_on_husky_stadium.html

I'm quite impressed. The mystery box by the new entrance is the new light rail stop already under construction.

UW releases new renderings of Husky Stadium Renovations:

Seattle times article:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskyfootballblog/2012794554_huskystadium03.html

Flyover:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskyfootballblog/2012795187_more_on_husky_stadium.html

I'm quite impressed. The mystery box by the new entrance is the new light rail stop already under construction.

Here ya go:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/09/02/2012794552.jpg
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/09/02/2012794575.jpg
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/09/02/2012794582.jpg
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/09/02/2012794583.jpg

xmCv-hWPboc

Not a fan. The Populous one was definitely better looking, had better sightlines and kept more of the original bowl. The new end facade is kind of ugly and I can't for the life of me figure out what 360 Architects has with these hard angled corner joints to just sidline/endline stands (like the New Meadowlands) without turning the corner. It just messes up the sightlines in the corners, and in my opinion is pretty ugly. The only time I have felt that sort of bowl worked successfully is Qwest Field, should have looked for a different architect IMO.

Agreed, the other one was a bit sleeker...this version of the end zone complex looks like the entrance to a zoo/aquarium

i was at the georgia game today against Lafayette. it was AWESOME!!! georgia won:banana: we raped em.:crazy:

East Carolina has the best field art in the NCAA in my opinion.

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/365865/fieldyarrr.jpg

Not crazy about that logo^^ But if that's what the school wants so be it.

Correct me if I'm wrong but no other country on this planet has the sports at the collegiate level on par with the US..in proof check some of these attendances from this past weekend..

Actually..NCAA college football started in earnest on Thursday night..

Kentucky 23, Louisville 16
Papa John`s Cardinal Stadium - Attendance: 55,327

Notre Dame 23, Purdue 12
Notre Dame Stadium - Attendance: 80,795

UC Davis 3, California 52
Memorial Stadium - Attendance: 58,040

Louisiana 7, Georgia 55
Sanford Stadium - Attendance: 92,746

Eastern Illinois 7, Iowa 37
Kinnick Stadium - Attendance: 70,585

San Jose St. 3, Alabama 48
Bryant-Denny Stadium - Attendance: 101,821

Youngstown St. 14, Penn St. 44
Beaver Stadium - Attendance: 101,213

Arkansas St. 26, Auburn 52
Jordan-Hare Stadium - Attendance: 83,441

Michigan 30, Connecticut 10
Michigan Stadium - Attendance: 113,090

Tennessee 50, Tenn.-Martin 0
Neyland Stadium - Attendance: 99,123(not a sellout!!)

LSU 30, North Carolina 24
Georgia Dome - Atlanta, GA - Attendance: 68,919(not a sellout!!)

Texas 34, Rice 10
Reliant Stadium - Houston, TX - Attendance: 70,445

Georgia Tech 41, S. Carolina St. 10
Bobby Dodd Stadium At Historic Grant Field - Attendance: 51,668

Marshall 7, Ohio State 45
Columbus, Ohio • Stadium: Ohio Stadium • Attendance: 105,040

i was at the georgia game today against Lafayette. it was AWESOME!!! georgia won:banana: we raped em.:crazy:I'm sure your fellow dawg fans appreciate the class with which you're celebrating the victory over such underwhelming odds.

East Carolina has the best field art in the NCAA in my opinion.

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/365865/fieldyarrr.jpg

I think LSU's is one of the best

http://image20.webshots.com/21/2/12/54/215821254wuQlqf_ph.jpg

osu's boone pickens stadium. built 2009, capacity 62,000+, cost $281 million.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/81/234927602_858b6aa18b.jpg
http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/okst/graphics/wallpaper/football-bp-800.jpg
http://files.sharenator.com/boo1_Boone_Pickens_Stadium-s500x250-59636.jpg
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fe/Boone-Pickens-Stadium-Outside-South.jpg/800px-Boone-Pickens-Stadium-Outside-South.jpg
http://osu.okstate.edu/news/BPS-02.jpg

go pokes!

Good aerial of Boone Pickens

http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/okst/graphics/wallpaper/football/aerial2-w-1680.jpg

that is an awesome aerial. i love the boone. what i don't like are all the unsightly parking lots around it, but that's the way football stadiums sometimes are. the plan is to fill all that in and get cars off-campus, anyway. unfortunately they're also fixing to tear down the gorgeous old dorms next door to the west endzone (the one surrounded by fans). i hope it can be saved..

judging by the lack of a few construction sites, i can tell that this is last year. so this must have been either the georgia or houston games, judging by the red opposing fans up against the side of gallagher-iba.

Enjoy the parking lots. You could be like UT where you have to park in far off garages and walk long distances. Makes for prettier landscaping, but really isn't all that logistical without super public transit.

Looks like the AFL with those ridiculously thin sidelines.

Rutgers Stadium - Rutgers University Scarlet Knights - 52,454 - Piscataway, NJ
"On The Banks"
"R" House
"The Birthplace of College Football"

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4650038193_5f6d4f3d1c_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1387/5117448485_76361f8462_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1387/5117448485_76361f8462_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3218/4056348439_5b5dee0c3e_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/5210527746_5a12334c14_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5220013882_e4e3d54c55_b.jpg

Liked it a lot better as a horseshoe, I suppose they needed the extra seats, but it totally ruined the look

I wish they would lower the field and bring the seats closer. There's way too much room around the field.

I guess the wide sidelines would help to accommodate soccer, but why is there so much runoff behind the ends?

I guess the wide sidelines would help to accommodate soccer, but why is there so much runoff behind the ends?

Their soccer team doesn't play there and any other matches would go to the Meadowlands or Red Bull Arena so I don't even see the point of accommodating soccer.

Could host Rugby?

Could host Rugby?

Well maybe it's big enough for Rugby but Rutger's Rugby Team doesn't play there though. Now from the way it looks problably not but maybe yes it looks like the field would be slightly smaller than rugby field. It's looks like almost big enough but not quite to fit rugby. But hey I may be wrong they may have made field large enough for soccer which make it large enough Rugby. Because there field's are the same size now if I'm wrong about that then correct me.

Well maybe it's big enough for Rugby but Rutger's Rugby Team doesn't play there though. Now from the way it looks problably not but maybe yes it looks like the field would be slightly smaller than rugby field. It's looks like almost big enough but not quite to fit rugby. But hey I may be wrong they may have made field large enough for soccer which make it large enough Rugby. Because there field's are the same size now if I'm wrong about that then correct me.

The field is turf now (I don't recall it ever being grass though) with the makers dyed right into the turf so I'm not sure how it could be used for soccer. There are anchor points for additional seating all over the outer boundaries, I wonder if that's what the extra room is for? I did find these pictures that seem to indicate there was grass there at one point:
http://www.jlbruce.com/b_projects/sports/_collegiate/Rutgers/Wide1.jpg


Rutgers Soccer and Lacrosse teams however play down the street at Yurcak Field, identified as one of the premier Soccer facilities in the county:
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4650659100_6a2065a7e8_b.jpg
http://www.scarletknights.com/facilities/images/yurcak.jpg
http://www.scarletknights.com/facilities/images/yurcak-pano.jpg

Can anybody make out what this stadium is? I found these pics on a bleacher construction site but I'm stumped on what this place is:

http://www.outdooraluminum.com/OA-Gallery/Grandstand/images/OA-Grandstand_02.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v80/galen697/DCPI%2015/Mystery-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v80/galen697/DCPI%2015/Mystery2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v80/galen697/DCPI%2015/Mystery3.jpg

Can anybody make out what this stadium is? I found these pics on a bleacher construction site but I'm stumped on what this place is:



looks like Troy Univ.

looks like Troy Univ.

That is correct. It is Veterans Memorial Stadium in Troy, Alabama. Capacity 30,000. Troy University Trojans.

http://www.troy.edu/magazine/archives/Summer2008/images/stadium.jpg
https://www.nmnathletics.com/pics31/400/JD/JDJIBYKBTHQSJNE.20100708001414.jpg
http://www.thewizofodds.com/.a/6a00e553e551d188340105359ad1b8970c-500wi

Fun fact, the upper deck without the press box is built to be easily removed in the event they decide to bowl in the open end zone with those same bleachers, therefore allowing them to build a new upper level to match the larger one on the opposite sideline with a matching suite building.

DKR - Texas Longhorns (100,119)

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/5899/texasx.jpg (http://img340.imageshack.us/i/texasx.jpg/)

http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/2703/dkroverall09.jpg (http://img687.imageshack.us/i/dkroverall09.jpg/)

http://img815.imageshack.us/img815/9917/texastechvtexas2hzhvvds.jpg (http://img815.imageshack.us/i/texastechvtexas2hzhvvds.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Wheaton College, McCully Stadium (cap. 4,100), Wheaton, IL
http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/2078/mccullystadium.jpg

North Central College, Benedetti–Wehrli Stadium (cap. 5,500), Naperville, IL (former home of the Chicago Fire 2002-03)
http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/7536/naperville.jpg

Bakersfield College, Memorial Stadium (cap. 20,000), Bakersfield, CA
http://img815.imageshack.us/img815/4639/bakersfieldmemorialstad.jpg

Santa Ana College, Santa Ana Stadium (cap. 9,000), Santa Ana, CA
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/2418111404_2399eb80ab_z.jpg?zz=1
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2028/2417294363_3e091508a6_z.jpg?zz=1

Santa Barbara City College, La Playa Stadium (cap. 10,000), Santa Barbara, CA
http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/1593/33njojt.jpg

El Camino College, Murdock Stadium (cap. 12,127), Torrance, CA (former home of the NASL Los Angeles Aztecs 1975-76)
http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/5230/murdock.jpg

East Los Angeles College, Weingart Stadium (cap. 20,355), Monterey Park, CA (former home of the NASL Los Angeles Aztecs 1974)
http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/5594/800pxweingartstadium1.jpg

(Greater) LA has some cool little stadiums.

DKR - Texas Longhorns (100,119)

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/5899/texasx.jpg (http://img340.imageshack.us/i/texasx.jpg/)

http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/2703/dkroverall09.jpg (http://img687.imageshack.us/i/dkroverall09.jpg/)

http://img815.imageshack.us/img815/9917/texastechvtexas2hzhvvds.jpg (http://img815.imageshack.us/i/texastechvtexas2hzhvvds.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

I go to 2 or 3 UT games a year and cant help but notice the crowds there are very quite. My high school games had a more involved crowd.

This has probably been asked before, but what is the general reason for the open end I see on so many college grounds? Is it something to do with concerts or college celebrations?

This has probably been asked before, but what is the general reason for the open end I see on so many college grounds? Is it something to do with concerts or college celebrations?

Most typically it's a matter of cost savings. The stadiums often begin as smaller venues with stands along either sidelnines and eventually bowl in one end. (Keep in mind that with American football sideline seats are the overwhelming preference compared to soccer. Most gridiron fans would prefer to see a pair of 9,000 seat stands towering on either sideline than be in a shallow 18k bowl like many MLS venues.)

From there cost efficiency often dictates more premium seating is the first priority in expansion instead of more general seating. As such these suites and boxes typically go along the sidelines with the best views, right above the main stands. At this point further additions become a matter of economics: Sometimes adding to existing stands is also about renovating the conditions of the older stands, or it's about the land accessibility, the flow of people and traffic, etc. For some places the open end becomes kind of a character trait, and some folks would suggest seeing 3 larger sides filled in is more imposing than all sides filled in at a shallower level.

So it's in part economics and natural stadium growth, and it has grown into something of a customary trait.

The "horseshoe" shape was also a trendy structural design back in the 60's-70's. Just a quirky thing of college football. But yea, the best views for football occur along the sides. Then the ends get filled in when demand and funds dictate.

The "horseshoe" shape was also a trendy structural design back in the 60's-70's. Just a quirky thing of college football. But yea, the best views for football occur along the sides. Then the ends get filled in when demand and funds dictate.
Is it possible for the general fan to watch and understand the play of the game if they sit behind the endzone, or would you have to be more experienced at following the game? I ask because one day I will get to the USA for either a college game or an NFL game and by your collective reasoning above, the cheapest and thus more affordable to a tourist seats seem likely to be behind the endzone. I am a soccer fan and I'm used to watching my game of preference from behind the goals. but I'd hate to shell out some serious coin and miss out on the full experience if you catch my drift.I understand the basics of the American game but I'm by no means an expert and there are probably subtleties that go over my head like a 747.

Is it possible for the general fan to watch and understand the play of the game if they sit behind the endzone, or would you have to be more experienced at following the game? I ask because one day I will get to the USA for either a college game or an NFL game and by your collective reasoning above, the cheapest and thus more affordable to a tourist seats seem likely to be behind the endzone. I am a soccer fan and I'm used to watching my game of preference from behind the goals. but I'd hate to shell out some serious coin and miss out on the full experience if you catch my drift.I understand the basics of the American game but I'm by no means an expert and there are probably subtleties that go over my head like a 747.

American football is ALL about movement down the field and it's much easier to judge forward progress when you're sitting on the sidelines. I don't think it has anything to do with understanding the game or not. I mean, I understand the game pretty dang well but I still hate sitting down low behind the endzone. Different games, different seating preferences.

I have to agree with westside, especially if you're new to the game. American football is all about the incremental progress of a team moving down the field, and that translates much better from the sidelines. As you become more attuned to the play structures, traditional movements and so forth then the end zone seats can be as exciting.

This has probably been asked before, but what is the general reason for the open end I see on so many college grounds? Is it something to do with concerts or college celebrations?
at some places it's where the athletics building or basketball fieldhouse was built -- often many years ago

For instance, U of Wisconsin's old fieldhouse is located behind the end zone at Camp Randall Stadium:

http://www.savmasymposium2010.com/site/sites/default/files/images/Camp-Randall.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0a/UWFieldhouse2.jpg/800px-UWFieldhouse2.jpg

Oklahoma State's Gallagher-Iba Arena butts up against the field at Boone-Pickens Stadium:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/81/234927602_858b6aa18b_z.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2794/4173098688_688787541b_z.jpg

Off topic, but I like UW's fieldhouse, looks like it has an awesome atmosphere when full.

I have to agree with westside, especially if you're new to the game. American football is all about the incremental progress of a team moving down the field, and that translates much better from the sidelines. As you become more attuned to the play structures, traditional movements and so forth then the end zone seats can be as exciting.

Thanks for answering both GJ and westsidebomber....all good info to have in my mind when i'm scanning stubhub for tickets one day in the near future..cheers:cheers:

Kenan Stadium "Blue Zone" update:
http://www.newkenan.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=3360&PALBID=397333

Webcam:
http://oxblue.com/pro/open/uncaa/kenanstadium

http://image.cdnl3.xosnetwork.com/pics22/640/QA/QAOESWMGPMWYHAW.20090929184643.jpg

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/sasbrb/bluezone_angled.jpg

http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/unc/graphics/view-from-east-1.jpg

Current view:
http://www.med.unc.edu/webguide/overview/customization-options/available-images-1/buildings-1/aerial-photos/DSCF0036.jpg/image

The new endzone is just awful in the context of Keenan. and the massing is just sooo clumsy and foreign to what is there (and looks pretty good). I guess if the do the whole red brick thing on the sidelines and redo the press boxes it could be okay, but the current horseshoe was really nice the way it was.

I'm a Carolina fan and I hate the expansion. It'll get more people to games, but it basically ruins the stadium.

I'm reserving judgement for now, but if they ever complete all the desired renovations proposed for the stadium this could become one of the premier stadiums going. Leg room was always at a premium, but the viewsheds and setting were top notch. I'll miss the pines, but if this yields the impacts desired then it's the right move.

Kenan and UVA's Scott Stadiums are highly underrated architecturally.

Oregon's Autzen stadium was originally designed by S.O.M. and was dug from a hill. Even after the expansion, you can see that on the one side, one has to walk up the hill to descend to the seats. Very cool design.

[QUOTE=Commandant;60834711]

Autzen Stadium (cap. 54,000), Eugene, OR:
http://tom.nosleep.net/photos/autzen.jpg

Auzten is cool, saw some big concerts there back in the '80s.
Go Ducks!

Here is the expanded current view of the stadium.