Kickoff for the biggest game in college football is just hours away. Thousands of people have gathered outside Tampa's Raymond James Stadium for the Clemson-Alabama championship game.
The line to get into the fan-only party zone wrapped a half-mile around the grass parking lot of Raymond James Stadium around noon Monday. When the metal gates were removed eight hours before game time, Jessica Fultz was there - first in line. The University of Alabama senior had been camping there for a day and a half.
"We're the first Alabama students," she said. "We've been here since 9 a.m. yesterday morning, but we're going to be front row, so it's going to be all worth it. It as a little cold, but it was worth it for the Tide."
The price for some of the tickets being sold near the stadium had heated up. Terrence Williams of Athens, Georgia, kept the faith, holding a sign on Himes Avenue, hoping for a cheaper seat.
"I've seen them selling, but they're selling a little high right now, averaging $2,300 to $2,500," he said.
He's willing to pay a little less, to cheer on The Crimson Tide.
"Maybe $1,500 $1,250," he said. "I'm hoping."
Kickoff is at 8:30 tonight.
