Northwestern unveils $875 million Ryan Field stadium and hires Chip Kelly

Northwestern University is set to open its new $875 million football stadium, Ryan Field, on Oct. 2 against Penn State. The 35,000‑seat venue features a 2,000‑person “Safe Standing” student section without seats, modeled after European soccer terraces.

During Big Ten Media Days, head coach David Braun highlighted the stadium and announced the hiring of former Oregon and UCLA coach Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator. Braun said the program now targets a Big Ten championship and a national title, citing the new facility, staff changes and a roster with 88 % returning players as foundations for the ambition.