Friday, October 16, 2015

Big Ten Stadiums-- Part 3; The Middle Experiences, Northwestern

Especially since I will be at the Northwestern-Iowa game tomorrow.

9.  NORTHWESTERN--  Ryan Field (47,330)  Northwestern officials liken the former Dyche Stadium to Wrigley Field, without the ivy.  There is rooftop viewing, though, on Walker terrace at the north end.  The old-timey feel was captured on the film "The Express" about 1961 Heisman Trophy winner Ernie Davis.  Since Ohio State fans took over in 2006, NU has countered with ticket-selling schemes to keep purple the predominant color for the Wildcats.  However, red dominated last year when NIU played Northwestern.  A bonus  for the fans on the west side, a view of nearby Lake Michigan.

8.  MINNESOTA-- TCF Bank Stadium  (50,805)  Another corporate name.  One of the smallest stadiums in the Big Ten and also one of the newest, opening in 2009.  They even sell beer and it has one of the largest college football video displays, measuring 48 feet high and 108 feet across.  The Gophers are now outdoors after playing a long time inside at the Metrodome.

7.  MICHIGAN STATE--  Spartan Stadium (75,005)  It is not the biggest, coolest or most historic, but Spartan Stadium gets the job done-- especially at night, when crowds get wild.  Michigan State has been playing well here under Coach Mark Dantonio, going 15-1 since 2013.  The stadium opened in 1923 and has had frequent upgrades.

6.  IOWA--  Kinnick Stadium (70,585)  The Hawkeyes had an $89 million upgrade in 2006 with new scoreboards, more concession stands, rest rooms, private suites and a grand main entrance.  This is the place to be in Iowa City on game day, but the Hawkeyes have lost nine home games since 2012.

Ra-Ra-Ree  Lick 'Em in the Kneww.  --Cooter

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