Infographic: Nearly Half of All FBS Schools Have Stadium Upgrades Underway

As we saw with Oregon's new performance center / high-tech Versailles, colleges are sparing no expense on the glimmering new stadiums and facilities that they hope will woo prized football recruits. But stadium architecture firm Populous says that most fans don't realize just how much construction is actually taking place. In an infographic released yesterday, Populous illustrates how 43% of the 120 FBS schools have either undertaken or will complete stadium projects between 2009 and 2014, with the bulk of those between 2012 and 2014.

As Populous architect Kelly Kerns notes, the “simple answer” to the challenge of luring recruits is that a “beautiful building is inspiring and serves as the foundation for a great experience.” Is it as simple as having boosters offer cars and money? No. But at least the construction can be done publicly.

Tim Newcomb covers stadiums, design and technology for Sports Illustrated. Follow him on Twitter at @tdnewcomb.