Frequently Asked Questions
Will Wrigley Field ever host a college football bowl game?
Yes, Cubs officials are actively pursuing a bowl game at Wrigley Field, with plans targeting a start date after 2020. Cubs President Crane Kenney confirmed the organization is absolutely interested in hosting a bowl game.
Why can't Wrigley Field host a college football game right now?
The main issue is field configuration — during a 2010 game between Northwestern and Illinois, both teams had to use the same end zone because the stadium walls were too close to the field. The dugouts are scheduled to be moved closer to the foul poles after the next offseason, which should fix the problem by 2018.
What bowl game is the Wrigley Field bowl modeled after?
The Cubs are looking to model their bowl game after the Pinstripe Bowl held at Yankee Stadium in New York City, which Northwestern played in this year.
Would Northwestern play home games at Wrigley Field?
Yes, Cubs President Crane Kenney said Northwestern home games would be the first priority for Wrigley Field before any bowl game consideration.
Which college football conferences might be involved in a Wrigley Field bowl game?
No official conference tie-ins have been determined yet, but Chicago's location makes it a natural fit for Big Ten schools and potentially some Big 12 or SEC programs like Missouri or Kentucky who are within driving distance.