College football championship: What to know before you go to Mercedes-Benz

Some fans chowed down on BBQ while other smiled and laughed as they took selfies in front of vendors and various events set up outside the stadium. Ohio State fans filled an outside section between the stadium and the Signia by Hilton Atlanta hotel, in area they apparently made their home away from home.

The event also brought some added security and law enforcement who were seen holding rifles by the entrances. Road closures and blockades were plentiful. For visiting fans from Ohio and Indiana, the event staff were abundant and there to assist, holding signs that read: “How may I help you?”

Many of the visitors made sure their hands were busy, either inside their pockets or holding a beer car to keep warm.

Credit: David Aaro / David.Aaro@ajc.com

Credit: David Aaro / David.Aaro@ajc.com

But after getting near the gates, the pace quickened for some amid temperatures that neared the teens. At about 5 p.m., there wasn’t much of a backlog at Gate 1, as the fans slowly trickled in past security. Gate 2 was a little more jam packed, but things were moving, which was a welcome sign for some of the fans.

“In the sun it’s a little bit warmer,” an Ohio State fan in a jersey told two women trailing behind him near Gate 1.

Credit: David Aaro / David.Aaro@ajc.com

Credit: David Aaro / David.Aaro@ajc.com

Nearby, a man wearing a Notre Dame jacket, similar to the titular character from the movie “Rudy,” didn’t hold back his thoughts about the unseasonable weather in Atlanta.

“Gosh it’s cold,” he said as smoke was visible from his mouth that spread throughout a sea of fans walking the path on the northern side of the stadium that leads from Gate 2 to Gate 1.

Inside, they were likely happy to learn the roof of the stadium would remained closed.

Fans headed to the game might want to consult this online “playbook” covering what you need to know.

Some key highlights:

1. Clear bag policy

Security personnel will check all guests, so be prepared to open bags and possibly show all the contents.

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.