Gerald J. Ford Stadium

Gerald J. Ford Stadium is an American football venue at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, with three tiers providing seating for around 32,000 spectators. The facility also includes club seating and luxury boxes spread across the entire structure.

The venue opened in 2000 to replace the older Ownby Stadium, named after the banker who provided the funding for construction. Since then it has served as home to the university's Mustangs team.

The Doak Walker Plaza within the venue displays a replica trophy honoring the former player who won the Heisman Trophy in 1948. Visitors also see additional memorabilia from the university's athletic past here.

Press facilities provide workspace for around 125 media professionals, with separate areas for print, digital, radio, and television coverage. Visitors are best advised to find parking near the campus, especially arriving early on game days.

The playing field sits approximately 25 feet (7.6 meters) below ground level, with half the seating constructed beneath the surface. This design blends smoothly into the low profile of the campus surroundings.

Location: Dallas

Inception: September 2, 2000

Architects: Ellerbe Becket

Official opening: September 2, 2000

Capacity: 32000

Website: https://smumustangs.com/facilities/gerald-j-ford-stadium/2

GPS coordinates: 32.83664,-96.78399

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:09