UCF sells out nationally televised game against S.C.; Will stadium hold up?

ORLANDO, Fla. — For the first time in program history, University of Central Florida will appear on network television as the American Athletic Conference announced ABC will televise the Knights' clash with No. 12/13 South Carolina on Saturday at noon at Bright House Networks Stadium.

The 7-year-old, 45,000-seat stadium is sold out and officials anticipate lots of cheering for the black and gold from students and fans.

While the game is sold out, some fans said they're seeing tickets going for upwards of $400.

"Having a game of this magnitude on this campus will create a big dynamic we haven't had here before," said Stansbury.

Channel 9 found tickets online found for hundreds, but UCF cautions those buying from scalpers to be skeptical of scams.

"There's no assurance that's a valid ticket," said assistant athletic director Zack Lassiter. "No guarantee it will get you in the game."

And since its inaugural season, fans continue to test Bright House Networks Stadium's flexibility, something that is on the minds of some attending the game.

"Sometimes it gets shaky, but hopefully a good foundation will keep us up there cheering," said student George Dumont.

"You have to be there," said UCF student Kalen Hambrick. "First, you're scared. Then you feel all the excitement."

In 2007, engineers were brought back to make sure the stadium was safe and added reinforcements.

"When the stadium opened and Zombie Nation started, there was concern," said UCF athletic director Todd Stansbury. "We didn't anticipate that during the design phase."

Stansbury, however, insists the stadium is good to go for this weekend's packed house.

"They won't have to worry about that. If this is their first game, it will be a treat during Zombie Nation," he said.

In the meantime, plans are underway for a multimillion-dollar upgrade with open air premium seating and talk of expanding capacity by 20,000.

WFTV