Floyd Williams, Visit Jackson's Director of Sports Activities & Administration, is a Jackson State fan (since 4th grade, he said), a JSU alum, and an Alpha Phi Alpha and off-campus adviser to their undergraduate chapter. He also serves as an officer in the Jackson-Hinds chapter and former Mississippi Region Vice President for the JSU National Alumni Association.

Floyd shares his expertise here on what you need to know to make the most out of Saturday's gameday.

How do I get tickets?

Game tickets and parking passes can be purchased online at gojsutigers.com/tickets and at The Vet Ticket Office from 9 am – 2 pm.

Tailgating

Tailgating spots are sold out for the season (that's another one of those "the earlier, the better," so reserve your 2024 spot in advance). Still, Floyd said you could wander through (without your own setup) and make friends quickly. "I have family who comes down and wander around," he said. They tell me, 'I met so-and-so in tailgate section XYZ, and they offered me food!' It's a family atmosphere."

Setup typically happens on Friday evening after UMMC parking spaces have emptied ("Those heavy items – on game day, you won't get them in," Floyd said). "When they set up on Friday evening, people typically start tailgating. You'll surely see people on Friday if it's a rivalry." There's on-site security, so your belongings are looked after overnight.

Coming From Out-Of-Town?

Alums know, when it comes to hotels, you have to book in advance. Fans stay in cities an hour to two hours away, often. "I've known them to travel as far as Greenville," Floyd said. If you have waited, hotels listed on the VisitJackson.com website will help you navigate what could be a tricky endeavor - if there are rooms still available.

What Do I Need to Bring... and Where Do I Park?

The stadium has a clear bag policy, so pack light and be prepared to adhere to the rule. "You don't want to be that person who has to go back to your car to drop a bag off," said Floyd. And while it may seem obvious, don't forget your ticket.

Know what roads are blocked or routes are altered due to game day traffic. "As early as Friday, get your mind set on how you plan to get there," Floyd said.

Parking can be a bear. There is a lot at the stadium, but it fills quickly, so plan to arrive early (remember those parking passes we mentioned earlier?) "I've seen folks park as far as the Jackson Medical Mall and walk to the stadium. And if you're walking, comfortable shoes are a must."

Floyd is not about to make that trek, though. "If you're going with me," he laughed, "we'll be leaving home about 9 am."

Also, respect business parking lots and sidewalks. If you're not sure, don't park there. Some merchants will offer game day parking for a fee. And Visit Jackson offers a game day parking shuttle from Smith Wills Stadium.

In the Stadium

Once you're past the ticket takers and security, get your concessions, and make that trip to the restroom if you need it. "I strongly suggest you do that early," Floyd said, "because, once the Sonic Boom of the South marching band enters, the atmosphere goes through the roof."

"Very few people leave their seats until halftime. And even then, you won't want to miss the band!"

After the Game

Floyd has a traffic hack you should know about. "Stay for the 5th quarter 'Battle of the Bands,'" he said. "There's less traffic to get out." When it comes time to exit, pay close attention to safety officers. "They know the direction to send you." And patience: Floyd said, "It pays off every time."

Not ready to head home?

Putting one in the win column makes celebrating easy. "The alums have events, or maybe the university will have an event," Floyd said. With the city buzzing, fans ask each other, 'Hey, where are you going?'

"We all find our spots, Floyd said – restaurants, bars, pubs or clubs. "Until 2 or 3 am when you realize you have a 9 am flight!"

A Few More Things for Saturday, Nov. 18...

• Visit Jackson parking shuttle will run from 11 am until 7 pm from the The Vet to Smith Wills - $20 per car
• Stadium ticket office opens at 10 am
• Gates open at 11 am
• Game 2 pm
• All parking lots open at 8 am
• Kem will sing the national anthem.
• VIP parking – Lot A
• All vehicles parked in The Vet’s parking other than the UMC staff parking will be towed starting at 4 am Saturday, November 18, 2023
• There will be several disability (ADA) golf carts running from gate 9 during the entire game; other locations will be identified on Wednesday this week
• Press and other dignitaries must have VIP Credentials. Lot G is the entrance for all people with credentials.
• The day temperature should be in the mid 70s
• The Hinds County burn ban is lifted as of November 16, 2023
• There will be a first aid room with AMR on site

Bags approved for the game - Clear Plastic 12 X 6 X 12

1. 1 Gallon clear plastic freezer bag
2. Small purse 4.5 X 6.5
3. Clutch with should strap 4.5 X 6.5
4. Wallet
5. Seat Cushion