Buy tickets through ISU, there are several tailgating options without doing there ticket inclusive package. I called the Liberty Bowl office today and here are some things I was able to find out: They don't sell the tailgating spots in Tiger Lane (ones with grass pad and outlet) individually (other than what people say was put on Ticketmaster, that's great!) unless they don't sell out of packages and then they said they would sell the spots for $35. I gave my contact info to be called if they don't sell all packages to purchase only a tailgating spot (might try ticket master now instead) and I'm sure others could do the same. Also said that paved lots are very strict on keeping tailgating to just your parking space as they usually sell those lots out. He said best option is to go Purple Lots which are grass lots where there is a lot more freedom to set out games, throw football around, etc. He said these are $10-$15 a spot and are a 5 min walk to the stadium max (can see stadium from tailgate). He said paved lots are slightly closer than purple, but didn't say if they cost more. Take this information for what it's worth.
The BBQ Bowl, unfortunately, he told me is not for the general public to eat/purchase tickets for and it is merely a contest. We had kind of hoped to do our tailgating on a smaller scale and use this as our pregame meal, but no dice.
This isn't totally new info, but regarding tickets and our allotment, he told me that we would be on the east side and our allotment is from section 116 to section 126. He said the band will be in 117 and that ISU is deciding between putting students in 116 next to the band or in sections 124-126 and were leaning towards the latter. Due to the high number of student tickets sold so far I'd say that's a good bet.
Hope this is helpful.
