INDIANAPOLIS — Going into the game, confidence was high for fans of both teams.
"We have a great defense. We are going to go out there and shut the Iowa offense down all night. I think we are going to score some points too," said Ethan Zurek, a Michigan fan.
More than 100,000 fans took over downtown this weekend. While they waited for the Big Ten Championship game, they had plenty of activities to keep them busy, including the Big Ten Fan Fest and St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail Eating Championship.
"We just really love the environment. We came last year we really love the city," said Abby Heisler, a Michigan fan.
"Everybody is welcoming and friendly. Great places to go. Good food, good drinks, and a welcoming crowd," said Miles Weis, an Iowa fan.
The Big Ten Championship is expected to be a huge economic boost for the city, bringing in 20 million dollars. Indianapolis is booked to host the game in 2024. However, after that the future is unknown. The city recently placed a bid to secure the game for four more years.
"We are right in the middle of Big Ten country. We are so centrally located for all the Big Ten fans. Even if it brings a West Coast team in next year, but really, Indianapolis, you just get that Hoosier hospitality," said Dan Dan Gliot with Indiana Sports Corp.
Michigan and Iowa fans may not agree on much, but four more years of Hoosier hospitality... that's something some fans said they can get behind.
"You got it down. You know how to do it. You can host this big group. Good for all the fans. It's awesome," Weis said.
A tradition Indy will be happy to continue hosting.
"We love coming to Indy. We support it. I've been here three years in a row, and I don't plan on stopping," Heisler said.