Northwestern hosts Penn State for debut of new Ryan Field

Northwestern University is set to host Penn State for the inaugural game at the new $850 million Ryan Field in Evanston. The matchup marks a significant milestone for the university with the debut of its renovated stadium.

In a departure from longstanding tradition, the Northwestern University Marching Band (NUMB) will not perform its pregame routine on the field. The Ryan Field Foundation stated the band will instead perform at the Great Chicago Food Festival to engage with fans where they are gathered. While the band will still participate in halftime routines inside the stadium, the future of on-field pregame performances remains undecided.

The pregame festivities for the Friday night game will include an F-16 flyover by the 122nd Fighter Wing of the Indiana Air National Guard and a presentation of an American flag by 100 community members.