The Complete Game Plan for Scoring Michigan Football Tickets

As a passionate sports fan, I know that scoring tickets to see the Michigan Wolverines play live at the iconic Big House stadium is a bucket list item for any college football enthusiast. With over 100,000 screaming fans packing the stands, the electric atmosphere is beyond compare. This comprehensive guide will equip you with insider secrets and proven strategies for getting your hands on those coveted maize and blue tickets.

Know the Best Places to Buy Student Tickets

Current Michigan students have the easiest access to affordable tickets. Here are the top options:

• Mgoblue.com – Purchase single-game or full-season packages directly through the UM Athletic Department‘s online ticket portal. Prices start around $30 per game. Season tickets offer the best overall value.

• Crisler Center Box Office – Stop by in person to purchase tickets with your student ID. Helpful representatives can walk you through the best deals.

• Secondary Market – If games are sold out, try StubHub, VividSeats, or the NCAA Ticket Exchange. Compare prices across sites.

According to TickPick‘s 2022 College Football Ticket Report, the average secondary market price for Michigan football tickets last season was $118. However, students scored seats for just $43 on average.

Master Mobile Ticketing

Over 90% of Michigan tickets are delivered via mobile tickets or print-at-home options. Here are tips for utilizing them smoothly:

• Download Official App – For mobile tickets, you‘ll need the designated app from the ticket provider. Create an account and login to access on game day.

• Print PDF Tickets – For print-at-home options, be sure to print and bring the PDF file or document. Double check the seat info.

• Transfer Tickets Properly – If you purchased a resale ticket, ensure the seller officially transfers it to your account.

• Arrive Early, Have Battery Charged – Gates get crowded close to game time, so arrive early. Also make sure your phone is charged so the ticket barcode scans properly.

• Get Help If Needed – If you have any issues accessing your ticket, seek assistance from stadium staff or the box office right away. Don‘t wait!

Spot Fake Tickets & Verify Authenticity

With Michigan tickets in such high demand, scammers do try to sell counterfeit and fake tickets. Here‘s how to avoid getting duped:

• Vet Sellers Carefully – Only buy from trusted sources like the UM website, Stubhub, Vivid Seats or the NCAA Ticket Exchange

• Cross-check Details – Confirm the section, row, and seat info match on both your ticket and seat map.

• Update Contact Info – If you scored a resale ticket, update the contact info so you receive communications.

• Ask for References – Request past buyer references from unfamiliar resellers. A long history is a good sign.

• Inspect Closely – Check for crisp graphics, intact holograms, and clearly defined ticket info when you receive a hard copy ticket.

Don‘t get stuck outside the gates with a fake ticket! Follow these tips to verify authenticity.

Pay and Contest Tickets Like a Pro

Parking citations happen, so know how to handle them smoothly:

• Pay Online – Most municipalities allow you to pay a parking or traffic ticket online via a payments portal.

• Pay By Phone – Call the number on the citation to pay over the phone, typically with a credit card.

• Pay In Person – Head to the local police station or courthouse to pay in cash or check.

• Pay By Mail – Some jurisdictions still accept mailed payments. Send a check or money order.

• Contest Gracefully – If you wish to fight the ticket, act fast and follow the process outlined on the back of the citation.

Pay promptly to avoid late penalties! For traffic tickets, I recommend consulting a legal professional.

Score Discounts as a Student, Alum or Visitor

Take advantage of these savings opportunities:

• Students – Flash your GO BLUE ID for concession stand discounts.

• Recent Grads – Enjoy special ticket pricing for your first two years post-graduation.

• Alumni – Join the Alumni Association (free!) for access to ticket packs and extra perks.

• Faculty/Staff – Buy a discounted transit "Go! Pass" for riding the bus to games.

• Visitors – Monitor ticket reseller sites for last minute deals as game day approaches.

According to the Athletic Department, over 550,000 Michigan alumni live within driving distance of the stadium, so deals are out there!

Transportation Tips from a Seasoned Fan

With 110,000 fans descending on Ann Arbor, navigating game day traffic is an art form. Consider all options:

• Drive & Park – Lots open 4 hours pre-game. Expect $40-$60 for parking without a permit.

• Rideshare – Uber/Lyft have designated dropoff spots. Surge pricing will be high post-game.

• Bus – Ride an Ann Arbor bus using your U-Pass. Campus also has shuttle buses.

• Bike – Hundreds of bike racks are available outside the stadium. Avoid traffic hassles!

• Arrive Early! – Traffic bottlenecks near the stadium within 2 hours of kickoff. Give yourself plenty of time.

Insider tip: Check the MGoBlue Maps app for best parking spots, routes, and transportation options.

Enjoy the Student Section Scene

The famed Maize Rage student section sports 10,000 spirited students packed into sections 1-14 of the northeast corner stadium stands. Prepare for an exhilarating experience:

• Arrive Early – Get there well before kickoff to claim your spot with friends and take in the atmosphere.

• Bring Student ID – You‘ll need to show it both to access the student line and again to enter the section. Don‘t forget it!

• Dress Warm – Ann Arbor averages a high of 65°F during football season. Layer up and bring rain ponchos just in case.

• Get Loud! – Join in on cheers and chants to support your Wolverines. This crew leads the stadium energy all game long!

Hopefully this guide has equipped you with the know-how to score tickets, navigate game day, and cheer on the Wolverines like a true fan! Let me know if you have any other Michigan football questions. I‘m always happy to help a fellow sports lover find ways into the stadium to enjoy a stellar UMich game day experience!