Notebook: Big House once again

With renovations complete, Michigan Stadium is the nation's Big House once again. Capacity will be 109,901 for the opener with UConn, the University announced today, making it the largest football stadium in the United States.

"The stadium structures on the east and west side will be complete and all new premium seats will be on line," Michigan athletic director David Brandon said. "We are very excited to have the club seats and suites completed for the upcoming season and we continue to get great reaction from fans who tour those seating areas."

Thousands of fans are expected to tour the stadium in an open house Wednesday.

Though the bulk of the renovation is complete, more seating modifications will be phased in over the next few seasons, while handrails will also be added in the aisle ways.

"The upper concourses on the east and west sidelines should also make a huge improvement to circulation, and we are happy to add the new restrooms and concessions in those areas," said Brandon.

Capacity the last few years has been 107,501.

In other news, Michigan director of football operations Brad Labadie has resigned, the Detroit News reports, and has taken a job with Blue Cross/Blue Shield, beginning at the end of the month.

"I wish Brad well," Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon told the News. "He has worked hard and worked incredible hours."

Some have speculated Labadie's departure is related to the recent NCAA investigation into the football program, but Brandon responded, "I absolutely don't think people should [believe that]."