Well, it’s official.
The University of Maryland athletic department announced on Wednesday that its football team will play West Virginia University at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore in 2013. They will play Virginia Tech at the same site the following season.
The change of venue from the Terps’ normal home field, Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium, is intended to enhance revenue for these match-ups with major programs. M&T Bank Stadium holds just over 71,000 seats while Byrd Stadium’s capacity is about 54,000.
While there is some concern that a move off campus would relinquish some home-field advantage in what could be crucial games, those who made the decision hope the move will enhance the program’s state-wide presence.
Here’s what the athletic department had to say about it:
While Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium will always be our home, having the opportunity to take some games to venues around the state enables us to generate positive exposure for the entire university, to take Maryland football to new fans and recruits, and to enable our fan base and players to have a high-quality experience at another outstanding venue. This opportunity is part of our commitment to strengthening our home football schedules in future years.