ORLANDO, Fla. – Preparations are underway at the Citrus Bowl for the annual Florida Classic band showdown with Bethune Cookman University and Florida A&M University, but attendance is expected to be low since the bands won't be performing.
It's been almost one year since the hazing death of FAMU drum major Robert Champion, which sparked an investigation into the band and causing the suspension of FAMU's band.
According to a report from Florida Citrus Sports, last year, more than 60,000 people attended the game. This year, the upper bowl will be closed because of low ticket sales, so 18,000 of the 65,000 seats won't be sold.
Vendors tell Local 6 they are hopeful the turnout won't be dismal despite no band performance.
"I mean this is a rivalry game and we're here for football," said Joe Dowell. " Fans will still come out and support the football teams."