University Of Phoenix Stadium News Reports

BCS National Championship: It's harrowing around the stadium souvenir stands

Jamie Francis/The OregonianI took my life into my hands to fight my way through a mob to a souvenir stand inside University of Phoenix Stadium.

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- My marching orders were clear: don't come home without souvenirs.

And not just any souvenirs, but ones bought at the stadium on the day of the game.

So, after taking a deep breath, I plunged into the bedlam inside University of Phoenix Stadium, fought my way to the front of the souvenir stand, waved a credit card, and, trying to make myself heard over the constant bellows of "Let's Go Ducks!" I added $155 to my Visa balance.

Will my youngest son and daughter, my three grandchildren and my wife appreciate this?

Well, my daughter wanted a v-neck sweatshirt, and they didn't have any of those.

So, Courtney, if you're reading this, I'm sorry. I hope you like the t-shirt.

Now, let's get this game going, OK?

Pregame photo set

University of Phoenix stadium is filling up here in Glendale. Oregon and Auburn fans are crowding the seats and both teams are starting to warm up.

Oregon running back LaMichael James before the BCS National Championship game on Monday, Jan. 10, 2010. (Photo by Ivar Vong/Oregon Daily Emerald)

Oregon running back LaMichael James before the BCS National Championship game on Monday, Jan. 10, 2010. (Photo by Ivar Vong/Oregon Daily Emerald)

Oregon quarterback Darron Thomas before the BCS National Championship game on Monday, Jan. 10, 2010. (Photo by Ivar Vong/Oregon Daily Emerald)

Oregon wide receiver Lavasier Tuinei before the BCS National Championship game on Monday, Jan. 10, 2010. (Photo by Ivar Vong/Oregon Daily Emerald)

Oregon wide receiver Josh Huff before the BCS National Championship game on Monday, Jan. 10, 2010. (Photo by Ivar Vong/Oregon Daily Emerald)

An Oregon fan holds up a sign before the game in the University of Phoenix stadium. (Jack Hunter / Oregon Daily Emerald)

Auburn quarterback Cam Newton throws the football during pregame warm-up before the BCS National Championship game. (Jack Hunter / Oregon Daily Emerald)

Oregon wide reciever D.J. Davis catches a football during warm-ups before the BCS National Championship game against Auburn University. (Jack Hunter / Oregon Daily Emerald)

Oregon running back Remene Alston Jr. catches a ball during pre-game warm-ups. (Jack Hunter / Oregon Daily Emerald)