From Tailgate to Touchdown: Extreme Networks Transforms the Fan Journey for the 2023 NFL Season

The anticipation is building as the new NFL season kicks off, and this time, it's not just about the touchdowns and tackles. The NFL is working with Extreme to revolutionize the fan experience like never before. With cutting-edge technology and innovation, Extreme and the NFL are bringing fans closer to the action and making every moment unforgettable. This is why the top NFL stadiums rely on Extreme. Just this week, fans named Lumen Field the #1 stadium in the NFL. Lumen runs on Extreme. In fact, six of the top 10 stadiums are Extreme customers.  

Fan connectivity is reaching new levels in the NFL this season. NRG Stadium, home of the Houston Texans, is adopting Wi-Fi 6E technology. Powered by the 6 GHz spectrum, this state-of-the-art wireless technology enables enhanced Wi-Fi performance and speed and the ability to carry high bandwidth, high availability traffic without any bottlenecks. It’s a game-changer, providing fans with the seamless ability to share their unforgettable experiences, access real-time information, and enjoy expanded coverage within the stadium.

Wi-Fi 6E is reaching even beyond the fan experience, enabling stadiums to operate more efficiently and find new revenue-generating opportunities. With high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity and advanced Wi-Fi analytics, stadiums can introduce interactive advertising, targeted promotions, and data-driven marketing initiatives. Additionally, the robust network infrastructures powered by Wi-Fi 6E streamline stadium operations, from security to staff collaboration. These infrastructures provide invaluable data-driven insights that enable better resource allocation through the stadium and inform operational planning to ensure everything runs smoothly throughout the season.

Enhancing Digital Security and Ticketing

The gameday experience for fans starts at the gate. It is critical to have strong network performance supporting stadium security and mobile ticketing to keep lines moving efficiently so that fans can enter the stadium hassle-free. This has become increasingly important as all 32 NFL stadiums have made the move to paperless tickets, so strong connectivity at the gates is critical to support getting fans into the stadium and starting their gameday on a positive note.

Mobile Payments at Concessions and Stores

No more fumbling for cash or cards. With mobile payment options, fans can indulge in their favorite game-day snacks and purchase gear effortlessly. Whether it's a hot dog or a team jersey, a quick tap is all it takes. Supporting these mobile payments all starts with having a strong wireless network to keep systems running smoothly. In fact, in some stadiums like Gillette, not only can you pay using mobile technology but you can pour your own beer. 

Sharing Content on Social Media

Provide fans with the power to capture and share unforgettable moments seamlessly. With a reliable wireless connection, they can easily snap, tweet, and post their game-day memories. Wi-Fi analytics can be used to understand what social applications fans are using and when there are spikes in bandwidth.

Checking Live Data and Analytics

Provide fans with connectivity for them to access real-time game data and analytics. They can easily view replays, stay current with other teams' performances, check on their fantasy football matchups, or place in-game bets. For example, at So-Fi Stadium, fans who attended Super Bowl LVII were able to access sports betting and other applications like ESPN, the NFL app, and more.

Analytics for IT Teams and Personalized Experiences

Behind the scenes, IT teams not only maintain this connectivity but also dive into network analytics, unveiling invaluable insights into fan behavior and preferences. These insights serve as the blueprint for personalizing and enhancing fan experiences, making every visit to the stadium truly exceptional.

Seamless Connectivity for Employees

It's not only the fans who reap the rewards of advanced network solutions. Smooth connectivity simplifies the task for stadium employees to deliver exceptional service. Whether it's guiding attendees or managing concessions, employees are equipped with the resources required to excel.

Operational Efficiency on Game Day or Concert Day

From the moment employees arrive on event day, technology is woven into everything they do. From check-in to working point-of-sales terminals, it is critical that all stadium and employee devices have access to a strong network to support them in getting their job done and enhancing the experience for fans.

Complete Coverage on Game-Days

In today's digital age, staying connected is a must. A strong network is critical to providing strong coverage throughout the stadium so fans can stay engaged no matter where they are in the venue.

As the new NFL season takes shape, the NFL and Extreme Networks are coming together to transform the fan experience. When fans are connected, they can order food right from their seats, access a wealth of information and share those unforgettable moments with their friends and family on social media. Stadiums can enhance traffic flow, bolster security measures, ensure streamlined operations, and gain deeper insights into their fans for crafting personalized experiences.

Learn more about how Extreme Networks and the NFL are enhancing the game-day experience.