College football has some of the best atmosphere in all of sports. From the tailgate to the kickoff, spending time with family and friends around the gridiron on Saturdays in the fall is a tradition like no other. Some stadiums are better than others, however, especially to visit this season. These are the the five best and worst stadiums to take a trip to in 2023.
THE BEST: Bryant-Denny Stadium – University of Alabama
Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium stands as the epitome of excellence in college football stadiums. The resounding “Roll Tide” chant echoing through the stadium, accompanied by the iconic “Sweet Home Alabama” played by the Million Dollar Band creates an unmatched gameday atmosphere. This historic venue seamlessly combines tradition with modern amenities, offering fans an unforgettable experience. With its capacity to host over 100,000 fans, the stadium becomes an electric sea of crimson and white on game day and stands as a modern coliseum. The Alabama football program’s storied success, along with the fervent dedication of its fans, cements Bryant-Denny Stadium’s status as the best in college football.
THE WORST: Lincoln Financial Field – Temple University
It’s not that Lincoln Field, home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, is a bad stadium. It’s the fact that, whoever thought that Temple University could fill the 70,000-seat stadium was way out of his mind the day the deal was signed. Few things take the atmosphere out of a game as an empty stadium does. Being a bottom feeder in the American Athletic Conference can’t help that either. Skip this stop in 2023.
THE BEST: Tiger Stadium – Louisiana State University
LSU’s Tiger Stadium, often referred to as “Death Valley,” indisputably ranks among the best in college football. “Geaux Tigers” chant reverberates through the stadium, creating an unparalleled atmosphere along with a more explicit version of a similar chant. Night games in this iconic venue are legendary, with fans creating an intense, deafening roar that rattles opponents. LSU’s tailgating culture is second to none, with fans showcasing their Cajun culinary expertise and unwavering support for the Tigers. Tiger Stadium’s scenic location along the Mississippi River, combined with its rich tradition and passionate fan base, make it a truly exceptional destination for college football enthusiasts.
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THE WORST: FAU Stadium – Florida Atlantic University
FAU Stadium has struggled to attract large crowds, even after joining the American Athletic Conference, resulting in a lackluster game-day atmosphere. Sparse attendance can make it feel less like a traditional college football experience. Unlike some older and more established college football programs, FAU is a relatively young program with limited traditions and history, which can diminish the overall stadium experience. With a seating capacity of around 29,000, FAU Stadium is smaller than most other FBS stadiums, limiting the potential for large and passionate crowds. The stadium lacks the historical significance and iconic features that define many other college football venues. It doesn’t have the same appeal for fans seeking a sense of tradition. Combined with a lackluster schedule, FAU is a skip this season.
THE BEST: Ohio Stadium – THE Ohio State University
Ohio State University’s Ohio Stadium, known as “The Horseshoe,” rightfully claims its place as the best in college football. With its iconic Script Ohio formation, the stadium hosts traditions that are second to almost none. The deafening roar of over 100,000 fans, the rich history of legendary Buckeye players, and the electrifying night games under the lights create an unmatched gameday atmosphere. The horseshoe-shaped design amplifies crowd noise, making it an intimidating fortress for opponents while simultaneously offering a warm and welcoming home for the fiercely loyal Buckeye faithful.
THE WORST: The Sun Bowl – University of Texas at El Paso
The Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas suffers from outdated facilities and limited modern amenities, making it less comfortable for both fans and players. Additionally, its remote location on the Texas-Mexico border makes it less accessible for most college football fans along with the heat that makes tailgating near impossible. These factors contribute to lower attendance figures and a lackluster atmosphere during game days. The stadium’s architecture and design also lack the grandeur and character found in more iconic venues, further diminishing its appeal. Like FAU Stadium, its smaller seating capacity compared to some other college football stadiums means fewer opportunities for large and passionate crowds to create a game day atmosphere of excitement, ultimately impacting the overall game-day experience.
THE BEST: Vaught Highman Stadium – Ole Miss University
Ole Miss’s Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, affectionately known as “The Vaught,” has earned its reputation as one of the best in college football. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of oak trees, it provides a picturesque backdrop for game day festivities. The stadium’s heartwarming tradition of tailgating in “The Grove” is unmatched, offering a unique blend of southern hospitality, culinary delights, and camaraderie. With its intimate atmosphere and the infectious “Hotty Toddy” chant, Vaught-Hemingway Stadium exemplifies the warm and passionate spirit of Ole Miss, making it a truly exceptional destination for college football enthusiasts.
THE WORST: CEFCU Stadium – San Jose State University
CEFCU Stadium has struggled to attract large crowds and create a vibrant game-day atmosphere over the course of its existence, partly due to the lower level of enthusiasm and support for the San Jose State University football program. Playing in the MAC, one of the worst conferences in college ball, leaves San Jose State as a lackluster battle. The stadium’s infrastructure and amenities have been described as outdated and in need of renovation by many, which detracts from the overall experience. Along with being in the mid-MAC, its location in the densely populated Silicon Valley area can make parking and traffic logistics challenging for fans attending games. The stadium’s smaller seating capacity compared to larger college football venues only adds to the stadium’s dread.
THE BEST: Sanford Stadium – University of Georgia
The University of Georgia’s Sanford Stadium stands as a shining example of what makes a college football stadium the best in the nation. Nestled between the iconic hedges, it creates an intimate atmosphere that places fans right in the heart of the action. The stadium’s rich history, combined with the passionate Bulldog fan base, produces an unparalleled gameday experience. With the iconic Georgia Bulldog mascot, the mesmerizing Redcoat Band, and the electrifying cheers of “Go Dawgs,” Sanford Stadium offers an atmosphere that captures the true essence of college football.
THE WORST: War Memorial Stadium – University of Arkansas
Arkansas’s Razorback Stadium falls short in comparison to others in the NCAA. The stadium’s relatively small seating capacity, lacking the grandeur of larger venues, limits the overall game day experience. Additionally, the team’s performance in recent years has been less than stellar, which can impact the level of excitement and atmosphere within the stadium. The lack of distinctive or iconic traditions associated with Razorback Stadium may also contribute to it being perceived as less impressive than other college football venues. The stadium has hardly received any upgrades since being built in post-war 1948, but it is also located in one of the poorest capitals of any U.S. state.
