College football’s biggest game of the year is here. The national championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame will kick off Monday at 7:30 p.m. at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
For those with tickets to the big game, plan ahead to make sure your entry into the stadium is a breeze.
Home to both the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, the “Benz” also hosts other events throughout the year, and the same regulations are in place for Monday’s game. There’s an online “playbook” that covers extensively everything attendees need to know.
Here are key things to know if you’re heading to the game:
1. Clear bag policy
Security personnel will check all guests, so be prepared to open bags and possibly show all the contents, stadium officials advise.
Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags are allowed but must not be any larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches and can only have simple logos — nothing large enough to obscure what’s inside. Clear backpacks, fanny packs and cinch bags are allowed as long as they are within the size dimensions. Diaper bags must also be clear.
Fans may also carry in small, nonclear bags that do not exceed 4½ inches by 6½ inches in size, with or without a handle or strap, according to stadium guidelines. Exceptions may be made for medical items.
The stadium will offer $10 “bag valet” for those who don’t want to return to their cars with unapproved bags.
There is an extensive list of prohibited items, including alcohol, outside food or drinks, chairs or booster seats, selfie sticks and weapons.
2. Mobile tickets
Long gone are the days of paper tickets or even emailed versions. Instead, all tickets are mobile and must be managed through smartphones. You will need to download the CFBPlayoff app (on the Apple Store or Google Play) ahead of time. From there, move your tickets to your phone’s digital wallet for quick access. When you’re ready to go into the stadium after the gates open at 4:30 p.m., you will use your phone to get your ticket scanned. Go online for more information about managing your mobile tickets.
3. Parking
City leaders have advised that taking MARTA will be the easiest way to travel to and from Monday’s game. The primary stop for Mercedes-Benz is Georgia World Congress Center/CNN Center station.
Rideshare services are also encouraged. There are two zones for rideshare vehicles: one on Northside Drive in front of World Congress Center building C and the second on Centennial Olympic Park Drive near State Farm Arena.
For those driving to the game, purchasing a parking pass ahead of time is advisable. To purchase, visit Parking and Transportation near Mercedes-Benz Stadium on the venue’s website.
