Why Notre Dame Plays Navy At MetLife

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Post on Oct 27, 2024

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Why Do Notre Dame and Navy Play Football at MetLife Stadium?

It’s a yearly tradition that many fans look forward to: Notre Dame and Navy clashing on the gridiron. But for the past few years, these storied programs have been battling it out at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, a location that might seem odd to some. So, what’s the deal with MetLife? Why not play in South Bend or Annapolis?

It’s All About the Benjamins, Baby

The simple answer is money. You see, MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and Jets, offers a huge potential for revenue, especially when compared to Notre Dame’s own stadium or Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis. The massive capacity of MetLife (over 82,000) guarantees a huge crowd, which translates into ticket sales and a lucrative TV deal.

But Why Not Play on Campus?

Let’s be real, Notre Dame Stadium has a certain charm. It’s like stepping back in time with its old-school atmosphere and the famous “Touchdown Jesus” looking down on the action. But for this game, it just doesn’t make sense. While Notre Dame Stadium can hold over 77,000, the game against Navy is simply too big for that venue.

And let’s not forget about Navy’s home stadium. While it’s a historic place, its capacity is significantly smaller, only holding about 34,000 fans.

A Neutral Site Makes Sense

MetLife Stadium offers a neutral location for both fanbases. For Navy fans, it’s a short train ride from New York City. It’s also a convenient location for Notre Dame fans, who can fly in from the Midwest and easily access the stadium. And for the TV networks, it provides a neutral platform for showcasing a game with national appeal.

A Perfect Fit for a Big Game

So, the next time you see Notre Dame and Navy going head-to-head at MetLife, remember it’s all about the big picture. This neutral site helps maximize revenue, attracts a larger audience, and offers a unique experience for both teams. While it’s not always about the “home-field” advantage, it’s definitely about making a good game even bigger.

Let's Get Real: It's All About the Money!

Sure, we can say it’s about fans and accessibility, but let’s be honest – it’s all about the Benjamins. This game is a huge money-maker for both schools, and the potential revenue at MetLife Stadium is just too good to pass up. It's the American way!