11 Rookie Stadiums Punching Way Above Their Weight Class in College Football

10. University Stadium – New Mexico State University

University Stadium has long been the heart of Aggie football in Las Cruces, but after years of underinvestment, it finally received a major facelift beginning in 2021. Phase one of the renovation included new locker rooms, modern press facilities, enhanced seating areas, and upgraded concessions. These changes have had a transformative impact—not just on aesthetics and comfort, but on the program’s entire vibe. The stadium now feels like a home that reflects NMSU’s ambition to grow and compete at a higher level. The Aggies have embraced the changes with renewed energy, and it shows in their performances. Players now train and compete in facilities that support top-tier development, while fans enjoy a revitalized environment that’s more welcoming and spirited than ever. As future phases unfold, University Stadium is expected to become a recruiting asset and a community hub. For a program on the rise, it’s the kind of foundation that sets the tone for long-term success. Reopened: 2021 (Renovation Phase 1 Complete)