There are few places that are able to capture the passion, tradition, and overall spectacle of college football like its historic stadiums. These iconic stadiums are not just fields but landmarks that are home to unforgettable memories, intense rivalries, and fan loyalty. From the roaring crowds of Michigan's “Big House” to the legendary atmosphere of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium, these stadiums are just as much a part of college football as the teams that call them home.
Michigan Stadium
Up first, we have “The Big House," the home of the Michigan Wolverines in Ann Arbor, Mich. Michigan Stadium gets its well-known nickname from being the largest stadium in the United States. The nickname was coined sometime in the mid-1980s by ABC Sports commentator Keith Jackson. Not only is it the largest stadium in the US, but it also is the largest stadium in the Western Hemisphere and the third-largest in the world. The stadium was completed in 1927 but had many renovations after that. The listed capacity of the stadium is 107,601 but has had more than 115,000 recorded at major events.
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Bryant-Denny is the home of the Alabama Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa, Ala. The stadium was originally known as Denny Stadium, after George H. Denny the school’s president from 1912 to 1932. Then, in 1975, the name was changed to Bryant-Denny in honor of Paul “Bear” Bryant, the longtime head coach and alumnus. On Sept. 7, 2024, it was renamed Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. This was in honor of former head coach Nick Saban, who led the Crimson Tide to nine SEC titles and a 206-29 on-field record.
Notre Dame Stadium
Notre Dame Stadium has been around since 1930 when it was constructed due to the success of Knute Rockne’s football teams. This stadium replaced Cartier Field to accommodate the growing fan base that had outgrown the 30,000-seat limit. The stadium is in its 94th year and has held over 449 games on its iconic bluegrass field. While not in the actual stadium, the Word of Life mural is an iconic piece of Notre Dame football that must be mentioned. The mural, more commonly known as “Touchdown Jesus” got that nickname because Jesus in the mural has his arms raised in the same position as a referee signaling a touchdown. The mural can be seen from inside the stadium, which is located just north of the stadium on the side of Hesburgh Library.
Rose Bowl Stadium
The Rose Bowl Stadium is located in Pasadena, Calif., and opened up in October 1922. The stadium is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and a California Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The Rose Bowl Stadium seats 89,702, which makes it the 11th largest stadium in the United States, the 16th largest globally, and the 10th largest among NCAA stadiums. It is renowned for hosting the annual Rose Bowl Game and has been the home of the UCLA Bruins football team since 1982. It also has hosted five Super Bowls, the 1994 FIFA World Cup Final, the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final, the 1984 Olympic Soccer Gold Medal Match, and multiple CONCACAF and U.S. Soccer Federation events.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, more commonly known as “The Swamp” is located in Gainesville, Fla. The Swamp is the University of Florida’s football field, the home of the Florida Gators. It was originally known as Florida Field when it first opened in 1930. At that time, it could hold 22,000 people; today it holds 88,548 as it has been expanded and renovated over time. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is the biggest stadium in Florida and ranks 12th in the United States and 21st in the world. In full, its name is Steve Spurrier-Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. On September 3, 2016, it was renamed in honor of former Florida head coach and quarterback Steve Spurrier.
These stadiums are way more than just places to play football—they’re packed with history and tradition that make college football so special. Each stadium has its own unique experience. They’re like living pieces of history, making sure college football’s legacy sticks around for years to come.
Edited by Taylor N. Hall
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