Northwestern University's new Ryan Field debuts with game against Penn State, ushers in new era

Northwestern University prepared to open a new chapter in its football history Friday night with the debut of the new Ryan Field, a stadium that replaces the venue that traces its roots back 100 years.

Parents, alumni and fans gathered for pregame tailgating ahead of the first game at the new facility. Outside the stadium, workers were still putting the finishing touches on the project as opening time approached.

"It's fantastic. They've been down to the wire working really hard," said neighbor Mark Hansen, who has watched construction since it began.

The original stadium opened 100 years ago as Dyche Stadium and was renamed Ryan Field in 1997. For many longtime fans, the debut of the new stadium marked a significant milestone.

Season ticket holder Josh Denlow said he has been attending games for five decades.

"We hung out here like it was a playground at the old Dyke Stadium and then Ryan Field. Never could I imagine what this is today," Denlow said.

The new stadium is set to welcome a sellout crowd of 35,000 fans. That is about 12,000 fewer seats than the previous Ryan Field, but the facility was designed to bring fans closer to the action with a more vertical seating configuration intended to provide strong sightlines throughout the stadium.

"This is a college town. So when you have a facility like this who can entertain the best of the best and play outstanding football, it helps the community," said Northwestern fan Michael Mitchell.

The project cost about $850 million, making it one of the most expensive college stadiums in the country. University officials have also planned a number of surprises for the opening-night festivities.

Even some family members of players said they were unsure what to expect.

"I'm not sure what's gonna happen. There could be fireworks. John Bon Jovi, jumping out. Not sure. We're excited to see them out on the field," said Kristen Carsello, a parent.

Northwestern was scheduled to host Penn State in the stadium's inaugural game. Kickoff was set for 7 p.m., with the game nationally televised. University officials encouraged fans to arrive early for pregame festivities and planned surprises.