Autzen

[brady_44]

I have a question for all you Oregon fans. I know Oregon is notorious for being a tough place to play and Oregon's homefield advantage is huge. My question is, what makes it so tough? Is it the stadium noise, the gameday environment, weather? Not really an important question, but I haven't been there so I was just curious.

[Go-Pac]

Autzen is tough for several reasons. It is not huge stadium, but the way it is constructed there are only a few feet separating the fans from the field. The fans are almost on top of the players and unfortunately there are frequent exchanges between opposing teams and fans. I'm sure the bowl shape has some accoustic effect that amplifys the noise. The stadium is always at 105% capacity so the fans are passionate. Yes the weather can be bad, but no worse than Pullman, WA. Ultimately though the most important reason is that the UO and coach Belloti have fielded competitive teams, the last year being an exception. Some links

http://www.collegegridirons.com/pac10/AutzenStadium.htm
http://www.msnbc.com/modules/sports/...s1b1&0sp=s1b10 (old link)
http://www.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1014&CID=444097 (more current)

[Autzen Powers]

Go-Pac is 100% right - especially about the construction of the stadium. It plays a big part because the fans are right on top of the field.

The fans also understand the game pretty well - they know when to make a lot of noise (and can keep it up all game long) and know when to stay silent. I've seen people "shushed" when the offense is on the field, to keep the noise down. And when the defense is on the field during a crucial time, I've witnessed nearly the whole stadium yelling into their hands like microphones, amplifying the noise, and forcing the other team to take a time out. My ears ring after being in Autzen during a really competitive game.

[QUACKATTACK]

This is why CLICK HERE