The Jaguars are trying to enhance the NFL in-stadium experience by ripping off an idea college teams have used for years.
In addition to a number of perks prior to today’s home game against the Texans, the Jags are giving fans a chance to get up close to the team as they Prowl.
The Prowl is a three-minute stroll that will take players under the stands with fans on either side as they walk into the stadium.
You may have liked it better when they call it the Tiger Walk at Auburn, or similar team parades on other college campuses.
“It’s unique to the NFL and the response has been dramatic,’’ Jags team president Mark told Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union. “We’re also starting something new between the third and fourth quarters that will be a surprise for the fans on Sunday. Those are examples of the traditions we want to build. They would be consistent and you would see them every game.’’
They tested it during the preseason, and fans seemed to like it. But Giants co-owner John Mara asked Lamping one question when he saw it.
“Does your coach know you are doing this?’’ Mara asked.
“Yes, he does, and he’s really embraced it,’’ Lamping said.
“The people who are college football fans love that type of stuff,’’ Lamping said. “They’ll say, ‘Hey, I am glad the Jaguars are doing something like that. They’re not afraid at looking at stuff that may work elsewhere and try to apply it here.’ ’’
Jacksonville’s a fantastic college football town, which is part of the reason the Jags stadium is bigger than they need.
But under new owner Shad Khan, they’re making a conscious effort to add a little juice to the experience. Today, that means fake mustaches and rally towels, with other promotions along the way.
They’re letting fans bring in their own food as long as it fits in an 11-by-11-inch bag, and creating targeted ticket packages to appeal to college fans, to get them into the building. They’re even throwing in gas cards with one package that includes the Jets game, so people wanting to see Tim Tebow will actually come to the stadium to see him.