Top Big Ten Football Stadiums: Best, Underrated, and Overrated
College football stadiums aren’t just places where games happen. They’re the living, beating heart of traditions, wild fan energy, and memories you can’t shake off.
The Athletic recently turned the spotlight on Big Ten stadiums, showing off their quirks, atmosphere, and the little rituals that make each one special. From the jaw-dropping White Out at Penn State’s Beaver Stadium to the almost postcard-worthy views at Washington’s Husky Stadium, their writers dig into what really sets these places apart.
Scott Dochterman, Austin Meek, Mitch Sherman, and Cameron Teague Robinson all chime in with their takes. Let’s get into some highlights, shall we?
The Electrifying Atmosphere of Big Ten Stadiums
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Big Ten stadiums have a reputation for wild energy. The traditions run deep, and the fans? They’re as passionate as they come.
Every stadium has its own flavor. Whether you’re a visitor or a player, these places leave a mark.
Beaver Stadium: The White Out Phenomenon
Scott Dochterman calls the White Out at Penn State’s Beaver Stadium almost a religious experience. Imagine 107,000 fans, all in white, shaking pom-poms and shouting “We Are … Penn State”—the noise is something else.
Then there’s the “Seven Nation Army” chant. That just cranks the intensity up another notch. If you’re a college football fan, this is one of those bucket-list events.
Autzen Stadium: A Personal Favorite
Austin Meek has a soft spot for Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon. It’s not the biggest or the loudest, but the vibe is hard to beat.
Don Essig’s old-school “it never rains in Autzen Stadium” line and the crowd singing “Shout” make it memorable. It’s got its own magic, honestly.
Ohio Stadium: The Horseshoe’s Intimidating Presence
Mitch Sherman can’t help but admire Ohio Stadium, the Horseshoe. The place is massive and doesn’t apologize for it.
Visitors feel the weight of it. The Best Damn Band In The Land marches with military precision, and when they dot the “i,” you know you’re somewhere special.
Scenic Beauty and Unique Traditions
There’s more to these stadiums than just noise. Some offer views that make you stop and stare, and others have traditions you won’t find anywhere else.
Husky Stadium: A Perfect Mix of Atmosphere and Scenery
Cameron Teague Robinson raves about Washington’s Husky Stadium. The crowd is wild, but the backdrop is even wilder.
You get a peek at the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, and Lake Washington all at once. Plus, there’s a real Husky, Dubs II, trotting around—how many other places can say that?
Kinnick Stadium: The Hawkeye Wave
Dochterman and Sherman both wish Iowa’s Kinnick Stadium got more love. The stands are close to the field, which makes it tough for visiting teams.
But the Hawkeye Wave is what really gets you. Everyone in the stadium—fans, players—waves to the kids up in the nearby hospital. It’s one of the most touching things in college football, no question.
Memorial Stadium: Indiana’s Hidden Gem
Teague Robinson is a fan of Indiana’s Memorial Stadium. It’s had some renovations, but there’s still an old-school feel that sticks around.
It’s not huge, but it’s cozy and lively. Being so close to downtown Bloomington and Assembly Hall just adds to the charm.
Iconic Venues and Overlooked Gems
Some stadiums are household names, but others deserve more credit for the experience they offer.
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The Big House: Tradition and Capacity
Dochterman gives Michigan Stadium—The Big House—its due for tradition and size. Still, he thinks it might be a bit overrated compared to others in the conference.
The bowl shape lets the noise carry, and the atmosphere is lively. But it doesn’t intimidate quite like some of the others.
The Rose Bowl: A Tale of Two Experiences
Meek and Teague Robinson both see the Rose Bowl as a mixed bag. The game itself is pure magic, but as a home for UCLA? Not quite as special.
The Rose Bowl logo and the vibe on New Year’s Day are iconic. Regular-season UCLA games, though, just don’t have the same spark.
Camp Randall Stadium: Untapped Potential
Sherman calls Camp Randall Stadium a “one-trick pony.” Everyone knows “Jump Around,” but he thinks the place could do more.
The late-arriving student section and a lack of big moments for the Badgers this year haven’t helped. It feels like there’s more waiting to be unlocked.
SECU Stadium: Maryland’s Quaint Charm
Dochterman points out SECU Stadium at Maryland as a hidden gem. The fall colors around College Park and the stadium’s homey vibe make it a nice stop, even if Maryland isn’t a football giant.
Best Aspects and Traditions of Big Ten Stadiums
Every Big Ten stadium has its quirks and rituals that make college football weekends unforgettable.
Best Pregame Band Routine: Ohio Stadium, Ohio State
Dochterman loves the pregame band show at Ohio Stadium. The Best Damn Band In The Land puts on a performance that’s all precision and flair.
The dotting of the “i” is classic Americana. It’s the kind of thing you talk about long after you leave.
Best View: Husky Stadium, Washington
Sherman says Husky Stadium has the best view. Fans can look out over Union Bay and Lake Washington, and the “sailgating” scene before kickoff is something you have to see to believe.
Worst Pregame Traffic: Beaver Stadium, Penn State
Meek warns everyone about Beaver Stadium’s pregame traffic. If you don’t come in from the right direction, you’ll get rerouted and probably lose cell service.
Sometimes you just have to pull out an old-school map and hope for the best.
Best Walk: Ohio Stadium, Ohio State
Teague Robinson gives Ohio State credit for the walkways and paths around the Horseshoe. You can wander past Buckeye trees, check out pregame sets, and just soak it all in.
Best Campus Setting: Memorial Stadium, Indiana
Sherman thinks Indiana’s Memorial Stadium nails the campus setting. It’s close to downtown Bloomington, has plenty of green space, and sits right next to historic Assembly Hall.
Best Tradition: The Hawkeye Wave, Kinnick Stadium, Iowa
Teague Robinson calls The Hawkeye Wave the coolest tradition in college football. Fans and players wave at pediatric patients in the hospital next door—it’s a small gesture, but honestly, it hits hard every time.
Both home and visiting teams join in, which just makes it even more special.
If you’re curious about more stadium rankings and details, check out the full article on The Athletic.