Watch CBS News

SoBe Hosts Pep Rallies For BCS Championship Contenders

MIAMI BEACH (CBSMiami) – South Beach has turned in to BCS central as college football fans from across the country arrive in town for Monday's National Championship game.

On Saturday, the Crimson Tide washed ashore on South Beach for a pep rally with the University of Alabama's "Million Dollar Marching Band."

The band is marking its 100th year performing in Tuscaloosa and at events all over the nation.

"It feels great right now," Jason Burt said. "We're real confident about  the game Monday night."

Burt was one of hundreds of people who attended the pep rally, which featured former Alabama players, cheerleaders and dancers.

"We're hoping for a big win," Greg Burleson said. The Alabama fan even has a prediction for the game's score. "26-14."

Not to be outdone, Notre Dame held a pep rally by the ocean as well.

"First time playing in a long time for a National Championship. So it's going to be a really good game by both teams and I hope the best team will win," Ed Mosxal said. He is a professor doing research at Notre Dame.

"At the end of the day, Alabama is way overconfident," Niraj Patel said. "Notre Dame is going to win it all."

Until then, the big winners are South Beach businesses.

Restaurants are packed and hotels are at capacity.

Last time both the Orange Bowl and the BCS Championship game were held in South Florida in the same year, $200 million dollars were generated for the local economy.

Ocean Drive between 5th and 14th Streets will remain closed to vehicle traffic until Monday morning.

Miami Beach Police officers have increased patrols through the weekend.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.