Snagging tickets to popular college football games can be costly and at times an impossible feat. Additionally, the long lines and heavy traffic can turn a fun outing into a hectic one. If you'd like to enjoy college football minus these negatives, consider matches in lesser known Division I conferences such as the Mid-American (MAC), Big Sky or Sun Belt Conferences, or a lower division like Division I-AA or Division II. In truth, these games often offer the same fierceness and excitement of Big Ten, Big 12 or Big East conference rivalries. Following are a few matches to consider.
Miami University vs. the University of Toledo
The MAC or Mid-American conference is quickly becoming strong competition for the bigger conferences. Miami University and the University of Toledo are two of the strongest competitors in the MAC. With Miami having snagged the MAC championship in 2010, this game will likely not disappoint.
When: Saturday, October 22 at 7 p.m.
Where: Oxford, Ohio
Grambling State Tigers vs. Texas Southern
The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) is home to several of the historically black college/university (or HBCU) teams. Many well known NFL players and Hall of Famers have come out of this conference including the infamous Jerry Rice, Tank Younger and Coach Eddie Robinson. Grambling has often been crowned "football champion" of the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Nevertheless, they were dethroned in 2009 and have yet to regain their title. They are sure to be a force against SWAC's 2010 champions, the Texas Southern Tigers.
When: Saturday, November 12 at 8 p.m.
Where: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Valdosta State University vs. University of North Alabama
Division II teams provide quality sports entertainment. Over the years, many of these teams have advanced to Division I due to their strength and talent. Some of the top football programs in this division include Grand Valley State University, North Alabama, Northwest Missouri State, Minnesota Duluth and Valdosta State. One of this year's highlights will likely be the competition between the University of North Alabama and Valdosta State. Both teams have won championships and are
ranked high within the division.
When: Saturday, November 12 at 2 p.m.
Where: Valdosta, Georgia
Big college football tickets can range from around $50-$100 per ticket for general admission and standard seats, while tickets to the above games average $20-$25 per person. Tickets to bowl and championship games in these lesser known conferences and lower divisions are also more easily attained.
Dee Dee Smith - Dee Dee is a web content writer with over a decade of experience. She has held contracts with golf, sports and business publications.
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