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The ongoing non-question of who is truly "New York's College Team" will be renewed on the gridiron this February... by SUNJ and Syracuse's respective marching bands. In an announcement today, the NFL said both groups will be performing at Super Bowl XLVIII at 6 p.m. ET on February 2 -- just 30 minutes before the game begins.
To the press release!
On SUNJ:
Hailing from New Brunswick, N.J., the
Rutgers UniversitySUNJ Marching Scarlet Knights have been performing for nearly 100 years. The band’s tradition of excellence continues today during their halftime, and in-game performances at all home football games, and other events, both on and off theRutgersSUNJ Campus. The band membership is comprised of students from nearly every academic major at the University.
On Syracuse:
The 200-member Syracuse University Marching Band performs for all home football games in SU’s Carrier Dome and is the flagship college band in the state of New York. It also serves as an ambassador, representing the University at major events both on and off campus.
"NEW YORK'S FLAGSHIP COLLEGE BAND"
***
These descriptions do seem to reflect the general philosophies of both universities pretty well, I think. SUNJ uses a lot of words to tell us very little. Syracuse uses very few words but nonetheless makes sure that all of them emphasize how important the band is.
In all seriousness though, congrats to both groups -- but especially the Pride of the Orange -- for receiving such an honor. The first outdoor cold-weather Super Bowl should be a blast for all taking part, and it's great to see Syracuse so heavily involved. One again, well done, DOC Gross.
Update: Thanks for an actual marching band photo, Brian!
