IU football's Memorial Stadium to undergo enhancements, including relocation of Hep's Rock

Memorial Stadium will undergo a few changes before the 2024 Indiana football season kicks off against FIU on Aug. 31.

According to a release, the stadium will have a new team entryway, upgraded dining options via IU's partnership with Levy, more outdoor suites, a new spot for the in-house DJ and a different location for The Rock.

Relocation of Hep's Rock at Indiana University's Memorial Stadium

The three-ton limestone remnant from the original Memorial Stadium construction will be relocated from the north end zone to the east concourse. IU said it will move the rock, with the approval of the Hoeppner family, to provide "an even larger part of the IU gameday fan experience."

The rock was introduced by previous head coach Terry Hoeppner in 2005. Hoeppner died in 2007 after a battle with brain cancer. It was dedicated as Hep's Rock that same year.

"In its new location, Hep’s Rock will now be a formal part of The Walk, with players, coaches, and staff, each interacting with the touchstone prior to entering the stadium," the release noted. "It’s location also makes Hep’s Rock accessible to students, alumni, and fans at any time."

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Indiana football's team entrance

With the new location for Hep's Rock, the gameday team entrance will also be revamped.

"The group from Thomas James Productions will expand and enclose the tunnel, along with added pyrotechnics and a new, fan-immersive experience," the release said.

Outdoor suite additions at Memorial Stadium

Last season, eight field-level outdoor suites debuted inside Memorial Stadium. Due to an overwhelming response, the university will expand its offering for the 2024 season by eight more outdoor suites on the Rooftop at the Rock.

New food options at Memorial Stadium

IU athletics has partnered with Levy to oversee "every aspect of hospitality on gameday at Memorial Stadium." The release noted that an elevated food and beverage experience for fans will be available due to renovations to the concourse.

"On top of the addition of some exciting new food partnerships with local restaurants, Levy will offer the traditional person-to-person concession options that fans are accustomed to in IU’s venues and new Grab and Go touch points that will make the concessions experience more convenient for patrons," the release noted.