Michigan State - Minnesota Basketball Game Time Change - 11am!

[GopherHole Staff]

GopherHole just got word that, to accommodate fans that would like to see both the Insight Bowl and the Michigan State game, they changed the basketball game time to 11am on December 31st.

[ShowinGoldyLove]

Wow, talk about a dead Williams Arena for such a huge conference game! 11 am! The students that haven't left for Winter Break won't even be out of their beds by then.

[GopherLady]

Wow, talk about a dead Williams Arena for such a huge conference game! 11 am! The students that haven't left for Winter Break won't even be out of their beds by then.

They made it out of bed for 11am football games (well, some of them did, haha) - I don't think that will be the issue. I think it's a give and take - many have to work that day, so you lose those fans. On the flip side, you will get all of the fans that didn't want to spend NYE's evening at the Barn, as well as all of those that would want to watch the Bowl game. Personally, I'm thrilled! Regardless if I make it to Phoenix, I will get to watch this game on TV or in person, and will be able to see the Bowl game.

The U must have really gone out of there way to get this done, thank you!!!

[From the Barn]

And the 90% of people that work won't be there either.

[SelectionSunday]

The 11 a.m. start virtually guarantees even less of a homecourt advantage, for what is clearly one of our most significant Big 10 home games of the season. As From the Barn said, there will be a lot more people for sure unable to go now because of the 11 a.m. start. At least with the 5 p.m. start, it's not a stretch for people working that day to get to The Barn. I'm not convinced many folks with tickets to the basketball game would have skipped it to watch the Gopher football team (coming off a 55-0 loss) play on a network that isn't very accessible. I hope the Insight Bowl is worth it & the Gophers beat the snot out of Kansas.

On the bright side, I guess I'll have a long lunch on New Year's Eve.

[From the Barn]

This is seriously the stupidest decision the athletic department has made since the Glen Mason contract extension. All the high rollers will already be Arizona for the football game, so their seats will be empty. All the regular folks won't be able to get off work. Most of the students will either be gone or not awake yet. Who does this benefit? The 23 people who have the NFL network and the people going to the bowl game that get to watch basketball at 9 am? Why? And what about all those people, and I'm sure there are a couple thousand at least, who bought tickets knowing they could get to a 5pm and will now have to beg for the full day off or try to dump their tickets. Someone should be fired.

[SelectionSunday]

Dumb, dumb & dumber decision.

If the Gophers end up in the neighborhood of one win shy of a NCAA Tournament berth on Selection Sunday and one of those losses is a home loss to Sparty, I wouldn't feel real good if I was the guy who made the request for the time change.

To me it's this simple. There's no way on earth there will be a better crowd for the 11 a.m. start than the 5 p.m. start. No freakin' way. Yes, the players & coaches (not fans) win games, but why give up any kind of additional advantage whatsoever?

[From the Barn]

And why screw over the fans right when people are getting excited again?

[Gophers09]

I agree that 11am isn't ideal but I think it is better than 5. It allows fans of both teams to see both games which I think a large percentage of people want. When it comes down to it I think the barn will be full for the Big Ten opener against a big time opponent with the home squad at 11-1 (or 12-0 if we can beat Louisville) regardless of what time it is.

[SelectionSunday]

I'm skeptical of Williams being anywhere near full for an 11 a.m. start on what is a workday for a lot of fans, but I hope you are right.

[From the Barn]

The football game isn't even on a real cable channel. Fans will want to go to the game, but they will be more interested in keeping their jobs. If the game was originally scheduled for 11 am, a sell out would be possible. In the late 90s the first Big Ten home game was a week day, might have been January 2 against Purdue, but the game had been scheduled for months so people could make accommodations. Forcing people to scramble at the last second to try to get off work is a mean-spirited disaster.

[From the Barn]

I'm sure Mr. Maturi won't mind a bit of feed back.

maturi@umn.edu

[anonymous]

I have tickets to the game. I also have to work that day.

I can do a 5 p.m. start. An 11 a.m. game -- meaning a minimum of three hours out of the office -- is much more problematic.

[Sour1729]

I actually like this move. First, quite a few people have New Year's Eve off anyway. Second, don't most people work until 5? What were those folks going to do? Just show up late? Third, while this may affect people in the TC planning to attend, it greatly benefits people not in the area who can now watch both games on television.

[From the Barn]

Who has the NFL network?

And you don't see why it is easier to leave work 2 hours early vs leaving at 10 am?

[Sour1729]

Oh and another thing about the students is that the ones that are in the TC will actually probably be more likely to go to an 11am start. The 5pm start was cutting it awfully close to going out that night. Also, students had trouble with 11am starts in football because games are on Saturday, meaning they were up late and then hungover from the night before. That shouldn't be the case with a mid-week game...students also probably won't go out the night before to save up for New Year's Eve.

[Sour1729]

Who has the NFL network?

And you don't see why it is easier to leave work 2 hours early vs leaving at 10 am?

Bars have NFL Network.

And not really. I'm back in school now but when I worked a 9-5 between undergrad and law school it was just as easy to take a full PTO day as it was to leave a few hours early.

[From the Barn]

It was easy a month ago, now, not so much.

[Sour1729]

I just get the impression that the majority of people disappointed with this move are those that probably wouldn't make an effort to watch the football game anyway. I could be wrong, but it seems like there isn't as much overlap at Minnesota of GOPHER fans in general as there are at lots of schools. It's like you either enjoy football, basketball, or hockey, but they tend to be mutually exclusive.

As a fan of all Gopher sports, I like the move.

[heymyfav]

Anyone know if this game is going to be on BTN?

Otherwise I could maybe buy someone's tickets ... probably wouldn't be willing to pay the full price though ...

[Moonlight]

I have a friend flying in that morning from E. Lancing to go to the game with us...

[stevenmgr]

http://by120w.bay120.mail.live.com/mail/SafeRedirect.aspx?hm__tg=http://207.46.9.249/att/GetAttachment.aspx&hm__qs=file%3d666c65fb-c5a8-4232-b3ec-6c72b1c0182b.jpg%26ct%3daW1hZ2UvanBlZw_3d_3d%26nam e%3daW1hZ2UwMDIuanBn%26inline%3d1%26rfc%3d0%26empt y%3dFalse%26imgsrc%3dcid%253aimage002.jpg%254001C9 5AEA.7374A080&oneredir=1&ip=10.1.106.218&d=d171&mf=32&a=01_03b72082a65637c6c82633632d9bf767235bab1502d8f af99911aac37446cb90

I got this from the SID



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 10, 2008


Gopher Hoops Game on Dec. 31 Changed to an 11 a.m. Tip


The Big Ten Conference and the Big Ten Network today announced that the tip-time for University of Minnesota Men’s Basketball game versus Michigan State on Wednesday, Dec. 31 has been changed from 5:00 p.m. CT to 11:00 a.m. CT. The change was made in order to avoid direct conflict with Minnesota’s Insight Bowl football game that is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. CT.

The doors to Williams Arena will open at 10:00 a.m.

Single-game and season tickets are still available for the 2008-09 season. Fans interested in purchasing tickets may call the ticket office at 612-624-8080, or toll free at 1-800-U-GOPHER. Tickets may also be purchased through Minnesota’s official athletics department website, www.gophersports.com (http://www.gophersports.com/?SPSID=38855&SPID=3322&DB_OEM_ID=8400).

The Big Ten Network, the top destination for hoops fans this winter, will broadcast the game with Wayne Larrivee and Tim McCormick on the call.




-UM-

[TheHofferette]

who has New Years Eve off? many students are already gone for break, people who are out of college and have normal jobs likely have to work (even working a half day I would miss the game). I now suspect attendance will be pathetic for a game in which the Barn should be rockin'.

I'm sure they moved it to not conflict w/ Gopher fball, which is good in theory, but it still stinks.

[howeda7]

I have to agree with those of you saying this is a terrible idea. I don't think it was going to sell out anyway being at 5 p.m. on New Year's Eve, but it's going to be much worse at 11 a.m. Student attendance was going to be marginal anyway. The only hope was a large turnout by the general public. It's one thing to sneak out of the office at 3:30 on New Year's Eve. A lot of offices are probably pretty quiet by then. But to attend a game at 11 a.m. may be impossible for a lot of people or require them to use a vacation day if they want to go.

I am out of state and so was not attending. Sure it may seem better for those who wanted to watch both games on tv. But I was going to work it out to be able to watch both games at the same time. I cannot, however take 3 hours off work in the middle of the day to watch the baseketball game. My only option now will be to Tivo both and try to watch them in order when I get home and not stumble across either score in the meantime. How is that better?

[Zeppelin Gopher]

This is an awesome decision. NYE is going to be a great day of Gopher Sports!!!

[GoldenGo4Fan]

When someone can't go to a game what do they usually do? Find someone who can go and sell them or give them the tickets. I am sure the Barn will be full. I know I am gonna try and get 2-3 tickets now that I can go to the game and then go to a Bowl/NYE Party. While not as convenient for some "where there's a will there's a way" and I'm sure most of you will somehow make it to the Barn. If not maybe you can give them to a charity and use them as a late year tax write-off.

[ilovethebarn]

I think this move sucks. First off how many people would be watching this game anyway with it being on NFL Network. Lot's of Comcast people don't have. Second, they have sucked the life out this game now. Thanks for taking away our home court advantage, mind as well play this one on a neutral court. One thing to remember with this also is the University of Minnesota does not have the day off of work. Have fun parking when all of the lots and ramps are full with contract parking vehicles.

[borninthebarn]

I fly into MSP, landing at 2. Had plenty of time to stop off with baggage and get to Big Ten for a sub.

This sucks. One of two games I was going to get to see this year. Big Ten opener at 11am against a top team? At least if it were a 1pm or 2pm game I could have still made it on an earlier flight.

:mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad: :mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad: :mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

[Rouser]

Wow..this idea sucks. I have to work that day and its not easy for me to just take a vacation day at that time if its not planned in advance since the staff is already thin during holidays.

Stupid, stupid, stupid....

[tjgopher]

I understand why some people don't like this decision, I really do. That said, personally, I love it. I can now watch hoops at the Barn and then watch football on TV. I love both Gopher hoops and Gopher football, so this is a beautiful thing for someone like me. Huge day of Gopher sports, who could ask for more? 11am is not an issue for me. I'm already taking (as I always do) the entire week after Christmas off. So, its Minnesota basketball and then Minnesota football. I do feel sympathy for those negatively impacted by this, but at least for this Gopher fan, I give it a thumbs up.

I also predict that Williams Arena will still rock that day. Time will tell, pun intended.

[GopherRock]

As soon as I knew that the Gophers were going to Tempe, I knew that the start time for the Sparty game was going to get moved.

However, I was thinking that the new time would be A) NYE at 3 PM (game gets over just as football starts) or B) Tuesday, December 30 at 7 PM.

You can count me in the camp that says that the 11 AM start is a bad idea.

[howeda7]

As soon as I knew that the Gophers were going to Tempe, I knew that the start time for the Sparty game was going to get moved.

However, I was thinking that the new time would be A) NYE at 3 PM (game gets over just as football starts) or B) Tuesday, December 30 at 7 PM.

You can count me in the camp that says that the 11 AM start is a bad idea.

Moving it to 3 or even to 7 was not an option. The BTN has like 4 games in a row that day, so they'd either have to not televise it, or swap start times with one of the other games, which they would never do. You bring up a valid point though. Is there any good reason they couldn't simply play it Tuesday night instead?

[Ski U Mah Gopher]

What a better way to get the home court advantage back by having thousands of screaming kids in The Barn.

If you can't make it to the game, take the late year tax deduction and give your tickets to Tix for Tots.

[TruthTeller]

Our three seats will be empty, as work comes first.

I agree with selection and from the barn - this is a very, very poor decision.

[TheHofferette]

borninthebarn: you win as the most screwed Gopher fan. I have a job in which I COULD iforce myself and take the kids I nanny to the game with me....but I just dont see it being feasible for my sanity (I wouldn't even be able to really watch, I'd be there just for the sake of being there)...but I am debating it. BUT to have planned a FLIGHT around this...bummer. I feel for you.

to the students who are psyched or think its easy to just take a day off during the holidays, good for you, you should be psyched! you get to watch both your teams play and not miss any action on NYE. that IS a good thing. however, the majority of fans who attend games are post-college w/ careers/jobs and can't just skip out on work. leaving an hour early to make a 5 tip? yes. taking off 3 hours in the middle of the day? not likely for most. however, good for the students at least, I hope the ones in town fill the place on 12/31 (its not even New Years Eve yet....its New Years Eve morning, which is not a holiday).

[grunkiejr]

I just get the impression that the majority of people disappointed with this move are those that probably wouldn't make an effort to watch the football game anyway. I could be wrong, but it seems like there isn't as much overlap at Minnesota of GOPHER fans in general as there are at lots of schools. It's like you either enjoy football, basketball, or hockey, but they tend to be mutually exclusive.

As a fan of all Gopher sports, I like the move.

Exactly. I got in an argument with From The Barn a week or two ago about whether the football team was even worth watching. FTB pretty much tried to say I wasn't a basketball fan if I would even consider watching a bowl game.

I'm not sure if I completely agree with you about fans not having interest in more than one sport. I have season tickets for football, basketball, and I had hockey tix in college but because of the season ticket waitlist I don't have them now. I consider myself a fan of all the sports and most of my friends do too but everybody seems to have their favorite sport. I know plenty of people that have both football and basketball. I think a lot of times hockey fans tend to be hockey fans in general and the Gophers just happen to be the local team, and a very good local team which generates interest. With the failures of the 70's-90's, Gopher football definitely doesn't benefit from that phenomenon.

[From the Barn]

No, my point was whether it would be worth watching the football team play in an 8th tier bowl game while sitting in bar because they game isn't on TV anywhere else when people could see the basketball team in person open the Big Ten season against the conference favorite.

[From the Barn]

And for the record, 67% of Americans work on NYE Day. http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/12-17-2007/0004724259&EDATE=

[sec105]

This is absurd. Not only do I now have to take a Vacation day to watch the Gopher Home opener against MSU, I now have to go at 11:00 in the morning. The Barn should really be rocking with all those students. Ridiculous. I am sure WCCO radio is ecstatic. Now they get the revenue from broadcasting both games. Hmmm I wonder if they had any input in this decision. And I'm sure Joel Maturi is fine with it. Now he can watch the Gophers from his suite at their Ritz Carlton in Phoenix before heading out to the Insight Bowl festivities. No conflicts for him.

This is the first time in over 20 years of going to Gopher basketball that I have to take a vacation day to attend a game and why? So some of us can watch the Gophers in the awesome (sarcasm) Insight Bowl a bowl, game that I will have to go to a bar watch on New Years Eve. Not my idea of a the perfect evening.

I repeat...It's not right, it's not fair and it is very selfish. JMO

[From the Barn]

More like so Maturi can hop on a private jet and attend both games.

[Hates Monikers]

Wow, I expected some people to be up set, but not a full-scale landslide against it. I probably wouldn't weigh in on this but will just to illustrate that there are 3 percent of us, rather than 2percent, who appluad the effort of the athletic office.

True, not everybody takes Dec. 31 off, but many do. And it's easier day for most people to take off, since it's during the holiday season. Besides, The Twins play afternoon games all season long, and employed baseball fans find ways to make it to those games. Is 11 a.m. inconvenient? Sure. But when was the last time basketball and football game times were set with fan convenience in mind?

Plus, now we get to watch two important Gopher games instead of one. Thanks, Joel!

[tjgopher]

I could be wrong, but it seems like there isn't as much overlap at Minnesota of GOPHER fans in general as there are at lots of schools. It's like you either enjoy football, basketball, or hockey, but they tend to be mutually exclusive.

I agree with this. It is a facet of Gopher athletics that I've never fully understood. We have the Goal Line Club for football, the Golden Dunkers for men's basketball, the Fast Break Club for women's basketball, the Blue Line Club for hockey, etc. It almost forces fans to specialize. Places like Wisconsin and Iowa have ONE booster club that supports ALL major sports. Those schools have official lunches and dinners and banquets that feature multiple coaches from multiple sports. Not here. We have to draw a line of separation as to not offend anyone.

And, it is clearly apparent that those most offended by the time change are those that have no interest in Gopher football. And, that's fine. I understand that they are negatively impacted by this. But, I also think this would only happen at a place like here, where it seems fans are specialized by sport. FTB has already shown a disdain for MN football and SS is an MSU football fan. Not a knock on either, to each his own. But, obviously if you're only a Gopher hoops fan, then this is no good for you. But, for Gopher fans who don't specialize, this should be good news.

[anonymous]

Hates Monikers,

I almost completely disagree with you. Here's why:

-- Yes there are people who take NYE off. But there are certainly more people who have to work. Compounding this is that at many workplaces, the schedules around the holidays are set quite a ways in advance so people can make travel arrangements. For example, I'm working on NYE and Jan. 2 because I am taking some time off around Christmas. To move this game three weeks in advance is really unfair to fans. This might be an easier day to take off if you know in September about the game time. At this point, flexibility for many people is long gone.

-- To the people who say, 'just take a vacation day,' it probably isn't quite that easy. As I said above, many places have their work schedules set in advance and taking the day off isn't really an option at this point. In addition, there are many workplaces that have calendar year vacation policies. I would venture to guess that there are people who have tickets to this game who don't have any '08 vacation remaining.

-- I'm not sure if I'm going to be able to make it. A 5 p.m. game would have been fine. I could have left work at 4 or even 4:15 and made it without a problem. A three-hour lunch is going to be more of a challenge. It could end up having to be a game-time decision and I don't want that.

-- To compare this to the Twins is laughable. The Twins play 81 home games, the games are scheduled far in advance and afternoon during the week games have the smallest attendance. If you have season tickets, you either work your schedule around it months in advance, you take a client or you give the tickets away.

-- If the Gophers wanted to move this game, they should have found a better time. The night of the 30th would have been a possibility or the night of the 1st, long after Michigan State's bowl game ended.

[From the Barn]

Wow, I expected some people to be up set, but not a full-scale landslide against it. I probably wouldn't weigh in on this but will just to illustrate that there are 3 percent of us, rather than 2percent, who appluad the effort of the athletic office.

True, not everybody takes Dec. 31 off, but many do. And it's easier day for most people to take off, since it's during the holiday season. Besides, The Twins play afternoon games all season long, and employed baseball fans find ways to make it to those games. Is 11 a.m. inconvenient? Sure. But when was the last time basketball and football game times were set with fan convenience in mind?

Plus, now we get to watch two important Gopher games instead of one. Thanks, Joel!

Except the vast majority of people do work on NYE. It is also possible to be a fan of the football team and acknowledge that this bowl game is on par or slightly below the basketball team making it to the NIT.

[SelectionSunday]

When they announced the time switch at the game last night, you could clearly hear some boos, but not overwhelmingly so. The boos were sorta' reflective of this board, some clearly upset like myself (I hooted a little bit) but the boos weren't so loud that there was an overly negative reaction to it. I'll call it a draw and move forward.

[TruthTeller]

When someone can't go to a game what do they usually do? Find someone who can go and sell them or give them the tickets. I am sure the Barn will be full. I know I am gonna try and get 2-3 tickets now that I can go to the game and then go to a Bowl/NYE Party. While not as convenient for some "where there's a will there's a way" and I'm sure most of you will somehow make it to the Barn. If not maybe you can give them to a charity and use them as a late year tax write-off.

The home schedule this season is pathetic. Give away one of the best home games?

Ugh.

[station19]

Does anyone know if a local station will be able to pick up this the game? Like ESPN allows for Sun/Mon nite games?

[Hates Monikers]

Hates Monikers,

I almost completely disagree with you. Here's why:

-- Yes there are people who take NYE off. But there are certainly more people who have to work. Compounding this is that at many workplaces, the schedules around the holidays are set quite a ways in advance so people can make travel arrangements. For example, I'm working on NYE and Jan. 2 because I am taking some time off around Christmas. To move this game three weeks in advance is really unfair to fans. This might be an easier day to take off if you know in September about the game time. At this point, flexibility for many people is long gone.

-- To the people who say, 'just take a vacation day,' it probably isn't quite that easy. As I said above, many places have their work schedules set in advance and taking the day off isn't really an option at this point. In addition, there are many workplaces that have calendar year vacation policies. I would venture to guess that there are people who have tickets to this game who don't have any '08 vacation remaining.

-- I'm not sure if I'm going to be able to make it. A 5 p.m. game would have been fine. I could have left work at 4 or even 4:15 and made it without a problem. A three-hour lunch is going to be more of a challenge. It could end up having to be a game-time decision and I don't want that.

-- To compare this to the Twins is laughable. The Twins play 81 home games, the games are scheduled far in advance and afternoon during the week games have the smallest attendance. If you have season tickets, you either work your schedule around it months in advance, you take a client or you give the tickets away.

-- If the Gophers wanted to move this game, they should have found a better time. The night of the 30th would have been a possibility or the night of the 1st, long after Michigan State's bowl game ended.

Anonymous, I'm not saying that New Year's Eve is a free day for people. But it's better than a day game on any other Wednesday of the year. TV seems to think so, with three bowl games begining at 3:30 or earlier on NYE (not an apples-to-apples comparison, I know, but TV wants viewers). And about day baseball games, I wish I had hard evidence that they are well attended but mine is only anecdotal. I have always been surprised at how well teams draw during the day, and I have been part of several big crowds at the Metrodome on Thursday afternoons.

I realize that some of the people who originally planned to go to the BB game will not be able to. But I still expect a good crowd at the Barn for the game.

[TruthTeller]

I agree with this. It is a facet of Gopher athletics that I've never fully understood. We have the Goal Line Club for football, the Golden Dunkers for men's basketball, the Fast Break Club for women's basketball, the Blue Line Club for hockey, etc. It almost forces fans to specialize. Places like Wisconsin and Iowa have ONE booster club that supports ALL major sports. Those schools have official lunches and dinners and banquets that feature multiple coaches from multiple sports. Not here. We have to draw a line of separation as to not offend anyone.

And, it is clearly apparent that those most offended by the time change are those that have no interest in Gopher football. And, that's fine. I understand that they are negatively impacted by this. But, I also think this would only happen at a place like here, where it seems fans are specialized by sport. FTB has already shown a disdain for MN football and SS is an MSU football fan. Not a knock on either, to each his own. But, obviously if you're only a Gopher hoops fan, then this is no good for you. But, for Gopher fans who don't specialize, this should be good news.

Not true.

[Sour1729]

Except the vast majority of people do work on NYE. It is also possible to be a fan of the football team and acknowledge that this bowl game is on par or slightly below the basketball team making it to the NIT.

I'm not sure 67% is a "vast majority" but your hyperbole is noted.

[nooram]

Does anyone know if a local station will be able to pick up this the game? Like ESPN allows for Sun/Mon nite games?

I believe the NFL requires OTA broadcast in the home markets (pending blackout rules). I don't believe ESPN has a choice.

[From the Barn]

I'm not sure 67% is a "vast majority" but your hyperbole is noted.

As is yours about "many" people not working that day.

[2nd Degree Gopher]

Since everyone is weighing in on this topic, I’ll add this:

I like the change, admittedly in large part because it works out better for me. But I also think it makes sense for the University, and its broadcast partners, to not have the two games compete for viewers. I have season tickets for both basketball and football and am not going to Tempe. I didn’t like having to choose either A) watching the football game on TV and missing all or most of the Big Ten opener against Michigan State or B) attending the basketball game and missing the last Gopher football game for eight months. For season ticket holders, we all bought the tickets without knowing the schedule and the game times are always subject to change, it’s even printed on the back of your ticket. Every year, I have anywhere from 4-8 games that just don’t work out for me to attend. Sometimes I know a date won’t work when the schedule comes out, other times some work or family matter arises the day of the game. I hate it when that happens for a highly anticipated game like MSU, but sometime it does. I give the tickets away, sell them or donate them to charity. I don’t always like it, but that’s the way it works.

This, or any, change had to work for the U, MSU and the BTN. Changing the date to th 30th was probably not an option since it would have required Michigan State to change travel plans. Whether the game is at 11:00 or 5:00, they will still come the 30th and leave on the 31st.

I certainly don’t blame anyone adversely affected by the change for being ticked off, as I would be in their shoes. But the earlier time will work better for some people, just as it makes it harder for others. Ultimately, whether we have more or less of a home court advantage is up to those of us with tickets who show up. No reason your seats should sit empty. If you seriously don’t know anyone who could use your tickets, donate them or post it here and I’ll bet you find some takers.

Last thought, while the timing could be better, perhaps the marketing folks at the U should come up with a viewing party for the Insight Bowl to provide an opportunity for those who don’t have the NFL Network, and don’t want to go to a bar, to see the game. Suggest that people come to the basketball game (many good seats available!!) and stay for the party to watch the football team. This would obviously would be a long day and wouldn’t work for a lot of people, but it also might entice a few more people to attend the hoops game.

[Sour1729]

As is yours about "many" people not working that day.

You want to argue semantics? Where do I say "many?" If you go back and look at my posts, I NEVER say "many!" I say "quite a few." You, on the other hand, say "vast majority" and I quoted you as such.

I would argue that the connotation of "quite a few" means fewer people than that of "many," but that really is opinion. Regardless, my comment was not based on any factual information but rather anecdotal evidence, which does not make the comment irrational. Your comment of "vast majority" was based on statistics and did not fit the data.

Please tip your waitresses.

[Drex96]

Very well stated and offers solutions (rather than more gripes) for what is a seriously messed up scheduling situation (for both the basketball team AND the football team). I especially like the suggestion to the Marketing Dept -- hope they are reading this thread.

And to ensure that the Barn is as full as possible for it's first Big Ten game of the season, I hope people who absolutely can't make the game (but have tickets available) do one of three things:

1) Give them away as stocking stuffers to a friend or co-worker who WILL use them to attend the game.

2) Donate the them to Tix for Tots (another seasonal option that is good for the soul and I believe I read TAX DEDUCTIBLE).

3) Post them on this board for others to purchase (or use for free if it comes to that).


At this point, while many are clearly disappointed (especially those who are traveling into town just to see the game--those are the folks who REALLY got screwed), in the grand scheme of things, it's just a game and not like losing (take your pick):

a. Your job
b. Your home
c. Your significant other(s)
d. Your life

Happy Holidays and Go Gophers.

[tjgopher]

Not true.

So, you're interested in Gopher football. Just not interested in watching this particular bowl game. As I said, that's fine. Personally, I'm happy I can do both.

[From the Barn]

Thats where I am, and it would be entirely different if I didn't need to be camped out in a bar for 4 hours on new years eve to watch the bowl game.

[sec105]

For season ticket holders, we all bought the tickets without knowing the schedule and the game times are always subject to change, it’s even printed on the back of your ticket. Every year, I have anywhere from 4-8 games that just don’t work out for me to attend. Sometimes I know a date won’t work when the schedule comes out, other times some work or family matter arises the day of the game...2nd Degree Gopher

You are correct that we do not know in advance when the Gopher Basketball and Football games will be played. However we do know that we rarely if ever have to arrange a vacation day at the "last minute" in order to attend these games.

We have always been able to assume the games would not be played between the hours of 8 and 5 on traditional work days. I will submit New Years Eve remains a traditional work day for most Americans.

I doubt many people that normally works weekends buys either Football or Basketball tickets.

[GopherLady]

Very well stated and offers solutions (rather than more gripes) for what is a seriously messed up scheduling situation (for both the basketball team AND the football team). I especially like the suggestion to the Marketing Dept -- hope they are reading this thread.

And to ensure that the Barn is as full as possible for it's first Big Ten game of the season, I hope people who absolutely can't make the game (but have tickets available) do one of three things:

1) Give them away as stocking stuffers to a friend or co-worker who WILL use them to attend the game.

2) Donate the them to Tix for Tots (another seasonal option that is good for the soul and I believe I read TAX DEDUCTIBLE).

3) Post them on this board for others to purchase (or use for free if it comes to that).


At this point, while many are clearly disappointed (especially those who are traveling into town just to see the game--those are the folks who REALLY got screwed), in the grand scheme of things, it's just a game and not like losing (take your pick):

a. Your job
b. Your home
c. Your significant other(s)
d. Your life

Happy Holidays and Go Gophers.

What's done is done. Happy or not with the decision, it's time to move forward - either you attend the game or give away/sell your tickets.

I guess the thing I do like about this thread, is for the first time this season (or for longer than that) it seems like people really care. People are fighting and upset that they may not be able to go to this game. I think we were too apathetic a few years ago to really worry about missing one home game. That's a good sign, our program is going in the right directions. It's when we're not arguing and debating that we have to worry!

[TruthTeller]

So, you're interested in Gopher football. Just not interested in watching this particular bowl game. As I said, that's fine. Personally, I'm happy I can do both.

Again, not true.

Work prevents us from attending the bb game, one of the best games of the year.

Time change allows for viewing of the bowl game, now.

High paid folks struggle with scheduling......

So glad you are happy.

[TruthTeller]

What's done is done. Happy or not with the decision, it's time to move forward - either you attend the game or give away/sell your tickets.

I guess the thing I do like about this thread, is for the first time this season (or for longer than that) it seems like people really care. People are fighting and upset that they may not be able to go to this game. I think we were too apathetic a few years ago to really worry about missing one home game. That's a good sign, our program is going in the right directions. It's when we're not arguing and debating that we have to worry!

Piss poor non con sched makes every Big 10 game a must. Especially MSU.

Very, very poor decision to change game time, with only 20 days notice and given the holidays.

[Moonlight]

My friend's flight gets in at 8:30a.
I will say again that it is stupid to do this, with ONE little word: TIVO

As others have said, with a poor non-con, and the Michigan State game with Tom Izzo one of the premiere games at Williams, its pretty aggravating. If it were Northwestern, I'd be happy to have the game at 9am. Wait til you shell out $1200 for your tickets and the decisions of the athletic office will have a different impact. The supposedly apathy sensed at the Barn is one part smoldering resentment with the University's tendency to screw season ticket holders for the simple reason that...they can, and they know the HAVE us.

This is a big deal for many, and the last point of my rant: The football team lost a million to nothing against Iowa at home to end the season.

[WilliamsArenaGuy]

This is a big deal for many, and the last point of my rant: The football team lost a million to nothing against Iowa at home to end the season.

What is the point of this?

[Goldengopher]

What is the point of this?

i think the point is that moonlight is mad about the basketball game time change and is taking it out on the football team.

i prefer not to have to get up and go to a basketball game at 11:00. i would rather it be played at 5:00. but it really doesn't affect me one way or another.

i have sympathy for those that can't come to the game now because they have to work. that doesn't seem fair. lots of my friends think it's great. that makes the party all that much longer and that's sometimes a good thing and sometimes a bad thing.

i wish they would have kept the game at 5.

[Moonlight]

you don't want to hear the answer.:D
But I will give you one anyway.
This is the BT opener and possibly the premiere game this year, and was given to begin with a bit of a questionable berth considering its importance. For many season tickets holders to have to miss the game (a $70 investment) because of work on a non-holiday so that people can watch a game on TV live when there is technology to solve the problem for a team that, incidentally (and least importantly as it was listed last in my rant), looked hideous it's last time(s) out, well...

Yes, you can go ahead and rip me for my lack of generosity to and enthusiasm for the football program, but those of us who financed the Monson years expect a little more than this for our money. I've heard plenty of b!tching from ftball fans about crappy start times in the fall because of the Twins and their post conference play, and it seemed to me that the level of play was oft mentioned. BUT those were still Saturdays. While it may not win me points with the fans here, I did notice that the last few games of the season were, well, less than scintillating and I can sincerely hope that they redeem some respectability in this opportunity.
It shows again that those in academia lack perspective on the rest of the world. Most of do not get a 3 week winter break once we grow up.

[Blizzard]

For the record I also was looking forward to - coming home from work - and watching the game. Still lagging behind technology and am without Tivo and I don't have the NFL network either. Will miss out on both like a lot of people. Bites.

[GoGophers2005]

It baffles me how this basketball board continues to rip on the football program over and over. Small man disease or what? I have season tickets to football and basketball and am on the waiting list for hockey (will get in probably 20 years). I love all gopher sports.
You should be congratulating the football program for going to a bowl game.
Go and look at the programs that are NOT bowling this year....Michigan, Illinois, Tennessee, Purdue, Arkansas, Arizona State. Who would have put the Gophers above those teams going into this season? Who would have put the program as a whole above those teams?

As far as bottom tier bowl games go the Insight is nowhere near the low as the Music City and Sun Bowl. If we could rewind time and replace all the December trips to Nashville with Phoenix I don't think we would be bashing the Gophers like a lot of bowl bashers have. I would love to see how Wisconsin or Iowa would have traveled to Nashville or El Paso year 2-3 years in a row. Phoenix is another story.

As far as the 11am start goes I think we truely screwed up by scheduling it on NYE in the first place. I would rather see a 2PM start but at least they are trying to do something, and that is a lot more than they have done in years past.

[GoGophers2005]

If this is a money issue and you are worried about your $35 face ticket value you should be more pissed at having to pay good earned money to see High Point, Concordia-St. Paul, Georgia State, St. Cloud and Northern State.

[From the Barn]

As far as bottom tier bowl games go the Insight is nowhere near the low as the Music City and Sun Bowl.

Except the Sun Bowl goes to the #4 Big Ten team.

[tjgopher]

Except the Sun Bowl goes to the #4 Big Ten team.

1) The Sun Bowl no longer gets a Big Ten team.
2) When the Sun Bowl got a Big Ten team, it was never the #4 team. It was the #5 team.

The Insight gets the #6 Big Ten team now. I think the reason most feel the Insight is better is because Phoenix is a far superior destination than El Paso.

[The Big L]

Except the Sun Bowl goes to the #4 Big Ten team.

Except the Big Ten doesn't go to the Sun Bowl. It's between Oregon state and Pittsburgh this year.

I believe the Alamo Bowl is the #4 Big Ten team.

[From the Barn]

My point was that the Sun Bowl is/was more prestigious in that it got the better team, even if I confused my Texas bowls. El Paso seems like a fun place too, just saying.

Which Big Ten team went to the Music City Bowl?

[tjgopher]

And which Big Ten team went to the Music City Bowl?

None. What's that have to do with it? His point is Phoenix was the better destination. Had the Gophers gone to Phoenix instead of Nashville or El Paso, then people would not have complained as much.

[From the Barn]

They used to, obviously, and it has nothing to do with anything, just curious.

[tjgopher]

They used to, obviously, and it has nothing to do with anything, just curious.

Ok.

[dlw4gophers]

I have to work New Years Eve day, but I was able to sell my tickets to someone I know that is able to go. I am not happy I will not be able to see this game but at least I have some Gopher fans sitting in my seats.

[station19]

Quit bitching so much and tell me if the bowl game will be carried by a local affiliate. Have not heard one word from the U athletic dept. or administration. Do the Gophers really have a marketing dept. Can't the tell us they are trying to get it locally televised even if they made it up.

[monk10]

This is great news. I'm glad the final game for football took precedence over a regular season game of basketball.

[gophersfan]

Quit bitching so much and tell me if the bowl game will be carried by a local affiliate. Have not heard one word from the U athletic dept. or administration. Do the Gophers really have a marketing dept. Can't the tell us they are trying to get it locally televised even if they made it up.


the Football game will only be shown on NFL Network. no local TV has the rights to the game. the rights to the game is only to the NFL Network sorry.

[station19]

the Football game will only be shown on NFL Network. no local TV has the rights to the game. the rights to the game is only to the NFL Network sorry.">>>>>>>>>>

No local TV has the rights so just drop the whole thing right? That's not how you get things done, though it is very Gopher like. Instead of just giving up what not jump start the brain and get creative. I can come up with many ideas but I will just mention the one that worked it Kansas. They (I assume the University) or some one made arrangements to air the game on the local Fox affiliate. That's wasn't too difficult.

DON'T JUST STAND THERE - DO SOMETHING


Or even pretend you are doing something. I sure hope there is no Marketing Degree coming out of the Carlson School of Mgmt.

[freshtrout]

The TV situation really sucks..was not aware that the NFL Network was televising the game.. I wish (someone who knew this) would have asked Mr Maturi .. on the Sid & Dave CCO show this morning .. why this is happening and why a local channel (45?) wouldn't be interested in trying to pick the game up locally. It would have been interesting to hear Mr Maturi's response.. after all, he did state his salary this morning in an honest way.......so I would have expected an honest answer again from Mr Maturi. However, I'm sure his answer would have been something about TV having the say in what gets shown on what network etc...."It's out of our control." Sadly, that's the case.
Go-Gophers-2 & 0 to start the Big Ten.....

[Dr.Don]

People: It's all about MONEY!!!!! It does NOT matter how much we bitch and moan. MONEY TALKS!!!

[Dr.Don]

AND....all it ever says to me is "GOODBYE". Money does not give a rip about us peons. But....I am still rooting for the Gophers to beat KS.

[tjgopher]

The TV situation really sucks..was not aware that the NFL Network was televising the game.. I wish (someone who knew this) would have asked Mr Maturi .. on the Sid & Dave CCO show this morning .. why this is happening and why a local channel (45?) wouldn't be interested in trying to pick the game up locally.

FYI - Comcast IS picking this up locally. The U administration DID work very hard to get it done. Basically, if you have Comcast, Dish, or Direct TV, you will get the game. Info linked below.

http://www.gophersports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=38605&SPID=3280&DB_OEM_ID=8400&ATCLID=3637224

[freshtrout]

Well that is good news. For folks w/o DirecTV-Dish-Comcast ... that's what friends are for, or that's what bars are for.