Football securityNFL implements enhanced security procedures, fans grumble

Football fans across the country are now being subjected to additional security measures before they are allowed to enter a stadium to watch their team play.

On Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs, fans in Chicago were subjected to bag checks and hand-held metal detectors at security checkpoints. Meanwhile during last Monday’s game in New Orleans, fans were also subjected to similar procedures.

Tim Fevour, the general manager of Soldier Field in Chicago, was careful to note that the added security measures were not in response to any specific threats.

“There’s nothing that we know of, nothing from FBI, Homeland Security, or Chicago Police Department that any level is stepped up. At this point in time, I think it is purely an NFL decision,” Fevour said.

Ricky Smith of Chicago said he did not mind the enhanced screening procedures.

“Some people could bring a lot of dangerous things into the game. I think it’s a good, cautious thing to do,” Smith said. “You get patted down everywhere you go these days.”

In September, during the Cowboys and Jets game, one fan was arrested for zapping someone with a stun gun. The NFL promptly responded by ordering security guards at all stadiums to expand their searches to include “ankles to knees.”

As a result of the new security procedures, fans have been encouraged to arrive early to games as there may be long lines for entry which has some grumbling about potential delays that will make them miss kick-off.

“It’s bad enough the way it is now to get in there,” Matt Doyle said of Soldier Field. “It’ll be halftime before you get to your seat.”

Bears officials also worry about long lines as 40 percent of fans at Soldier Field wait until the half-hour before kick-off time to head into the game.

“A lot of teams have already started to test it and it’s been a very difficult process. The best message is to tell the fans you really need to come early,” LeFevour said.