NFL rules prohibit dome to broadcast Super Bowl

ATLANTA — Disappointing news for Atlanta Falcons fans who can't go to Houston for the Super Bowl.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed understands the NFL has rules and rights to the Super Bowl, but he told Channel 2's Tom Jones he is trying to work through all of that and open The Georgia Dome so fans who can't afford to travel to Houston for the big game can watch it in the soon to be closed venue.

"We just have to figure out the logistics for that and the rights to do that," Reed said.

According to The Georgia Dome, that can't happen.

The Georgia Dome said NFL rules will not allow it to open up for fans to watch the game.

"The Georgia Dome just released the following statement: "We share your tremendous excitement that the Atlanta Falcons are headed to the Super Bowl. NFL rules prohibit us from using the Georgia Dome for broadcasting the game. Fans wishing to gather with other fans to watch the game can consider patronizing neighborhood businesses who will be showing the game."

Although fans cannot pack the dome to watch the Falcons take on the New England Patriots – Reed hopes they will soon flood the streets.

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Fans wishing to gather with other fans to watch the game can consider patronizing neighborhood businesses who will be showing the game.

Fans say it's not the same.

“'Cause they're gonna go somewhere and watch it on a big screen but there's nowhere like watching it on a dome with a big screen,” fan Michelle McLean said.

Not being able to watch in the dome would be a blow to super Falcons fans, such as Orrin C. Hudson.

He was looking forward to it.

“I would be the first one to buy a ticket. Please make that happen. 'Cause that's gonna save me time, energy and money,” Hudson said.

Cox Media Group