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

7. Mickey Blackwell Stadium – Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State’s leap into the FBS ranks wasn’t just symbolic—it came with a bold new home in Mickey Blackwell Stadium. This gleaming venue might not be the largest in the division, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in design, energy, and potential. Built with future expansion in mind, the stadium offers excellent sightlines from every seat, wide concourses, and upgraded concessions that make the game-day experience feel big-time. For players, the new locker rooms, meeting spaces, and training facilities rival those of far more established programs. The stadium has become a rallying point for the community, energizing students, alumni, and fans as they embrace this exciting new chapter in Gamecocks football. With growing attendance and a team that’s playing with grit and purpose, Mickey Blackwell Stadium is quickly developing a reputation as a tough place to play. It's not just a new home field—it's a signal that JSU is ready to rise. Opened: 2023