Over the past 24 hours, several notable developments have occurred in American football:
College Football:
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Attendance Surge: The Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) is projected to reach a record 39 million attendees in the 2026 season, marking a significant increase of 3.7 million fans since 2021. This resurgence is partly attributed to the expansion of FBS teams from 120 in 2009 to 136 in 2025. (axios.com)
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Charlotte 49ers Stadium Expansion: To accommodate growing attendance, the Charlotte 49ers are investing $70 million in a stadium expansion that will add approximately 3,000 seats and premium seating options. The project is scheduled for completion by the 2027 season. (axios.com)
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Season Openers: The University of Texas Longhorns are set to kick off their 2026 season against Texas State in Austin. Expectations are high with the return of star quarterback Arch Manning and a formidable defense. (axios.com)
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Atlanta’s College Football Weekend: Atlanta is hosting several college football games over Labor Day weekend, including Georgia Tech vs. Colorado, Auburn vs. Baylor, and the inaugural ATL Labor Day Classic between Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University. (axios.com)
NFL:
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Roster Moves: Teams are finalizing their rosters and practice squads. Notably, the Las Vegas Raiders signed wide receiver Ronnie Bell, guard Evan Neal, and defensive end Azeez Ojulari to their practice squad. (xfnfootball.com)
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Season Kickoff: The NFL season begins with a rematch of the Super Bowl between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. The Seahawks, led by coach Mike Macdonald and quarterback Sam Darnold, aim to defend their title. (washingtonpost.com)
Legal Update:
- Jerry Sandusky Case: Lawyers representing former Penn State assistant coach Jerry Sandusky are seeking to delay a court hearing related to a new claim by an accuser who now reportedly wants to recant his testimony. (apnews.com)
Highlights:
- College football crowds are booming. Charlotte is making room, Published on Thursday, September 03
- Longhorns get ready to hit the gridiron, Published on Thursday, September 03
- College football takes over Atlanta this Labor Day weekend, Published on Thursday, September 03
