Postgame Effects
Virginia Tech's loss dropped it to a final 1997 record of 7–5, while North Carolina's win raised it to a final record of 11–1. The Tar Heels also rose in the final college football polls of the season, finishing in fourth place in the Coaches' Poll and sixth in the Associated Press media poll. Virginia Tech's defeat was its worst loss since a 45–0 shutout by Tulane in 1983. Jacksonville businesses and hotels benefited from the influx of out-of-town guests. At least 25,000 fans arrived from outside of the Jacksonville area, injecting an estimated $30 million extra into the city's economy. Many fans praised the stadium, facilities, and attractions available for visitors. NBC's television coverage of the game was not given as high marks, however, and at least one commentator called the broadcast "sloppy" and "routine".
Though they were concerned by low attendance at the game, Gator Bowl officials were able to renegotiate a sponsorship agreement with Toyota Motor Company after the game's previous contract expired following the game. The game's television contract with NBC was not renewed, and bowl officials signed a new contract with CBS instead.
Read more about this topic: 1998 Gator Bowl
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