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

9. Yulman Stadium – Tulane University

Tulane’s Yulman Stadium might have opened in 2014, but it wasn’t until the program’s meteoric rise in 2022 and 2023—including a headline-grabbing Cotton Bowl victory—that this sleek, urban stadium truly found its identity. With a 30,000-seat capacity, Yulman offers a perfect balance of intimacy and intensity. Its compact design means every seat feels close to the action, and the noise generated by the Green Wave faithful can rattle even the toughest opponents. Set in the heart of Uptown New Orleans, the stadium pulses with local flair—from the sounds of brass bands to the aromas wafting in from nearby tailgates. Renovations and facility upgrades have enhanced the experience for players and fans alike, reinforcing the message: Tulane is no longer a footnote. Yulman Stadium is now a battleground for big-time matchups and a destination for rising talent. It’s the place where underdogs become champions—and where the Wave is just getting started. Opened: 2014 (but rebranded as a rising force in 2022–2023)