Winter Classic at the Ralph

Imagine 73,000 in Orchard Park----rooting on a winner.  No not the Bills, but the Sabres.  News we've known for quite some time, made official today...open air hockey at the Ralph on New Year's Day.

The Sabres and Penguins will play a nationally televised game to begin the New Year on the field at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Much of the field to be frozen.  League commissioner Gary Bettman joined Tom Golisano for Monday's announcement.

"Having these two great teams willing to do it, being able to come to a cold weather venue to try to minimize the weather risk, having an organization we knew we could work with and that was an important part of the community... it all led to us reaching this point where we said 'Let's do it," says Bettman.

Sabres goalie Ryan Miller says, "I always wonder why the football players got so pumped up after one play when they have to go right back and do it and start another series. You kinda understand, just that many people out there and the energy it creates."

Sabres owner Tom Golisano says, "We're happy that the National Hockey League recognized us as a prime location to have this event. Between the fact that it's us and the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sidney Crosby and gang, we're delighted. It's really showcasing Buffalo and to some degree, Pittsburgh. We think it's an honor."