The Appalachian State debacle, a fourth-straight loss to your fiercest rival and the loss of a 100-win coach weren't enough, evidently. The latest in a string of kicks to the collective nuts of Michigan fans is the news that their beloved Big House will no longer be the largest stadium in the land.
As a result of a settlement with the US Department of Justice and others, Michigan has agreed to comply with the ADA and will be adding 96 wheelchair seats this year with another 80 on the way before the start of the 2010 season.
Artist's rendition of Michigan Stadium in 2008
Prior to the settlement, the Big House listed an official capacity of 107,501 with Penn State's Beaver Stadium close behind at 107,282. Now, the Wolverines will be opening play this fall in the 2nd-largest stadium in the country with an expected capacity of 106,201.
This is obviously a big point of pride as it would be to any fan base (look how worked-up we get over a band) and although the plan is to have the seating back up to the capacity it is to do, others aren't so sure.
Unlike their better educated counterparts from up North, Ohio State was able to add luxury suites, attain ADA compliance and increase capacity with the Shoe after the three-year renovation project that was completed in 2001.
