• by Tanya Gazdik , August 28, 2013

Courtyard by Marriott is kicking off its third year as the official hotel of the National Football League.

The effort includes two football-centric TV spots with the NFL Network's Rich Eisen.

On Sept. 5, guests in all 850-plus locations will be greeted with a Pepsi Kickoff pack that includes Pepsi NEXT and Tostitos brand tortilla chips and and instant scratch-off cards for thousands of prizes.

Fans on Courtyard's Facebook page can enter to win weekly and monthly prizes including tickets, TVs, gift cards and a chance to follow their favorite team on every 2014 road game.

Guests staying at one of seven Courtyards will be treated to a VIP invite-only event featuring NFL legends, raffles and tailgate food. One fan will head straight to the game, courtesy of Courtyard. 

This year's tailgate properties are: Courtyard Boston Foxborough/Mansfield, Mass. (Sept. 12), Courtyard Mt. Laurel, N.J. (Sept. 19), Courtyard Chicago Downtown/River North , Ill. (Oct. 10),  Courtyard Scottsdale Salt River, Ariz. (Oct. 17),  Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown, Minn. (Nov. 7),  Courtyard Nashville Downtown, Tenn. (Nov. 14) and  Courtyard Houston Medical Center, Texas (Dec. 5).

“It’s all about making a difference for our guests and creating a memorable experience,” said Janis Milham, senior vice president, modern essentials and extended stay brands, Marriott International, in a release. “Our associates are excited, our lobbies are full of energy and football fans have a place to gather and cheer while scoring some awesome prizes.”

Football fans on the road during the week can enjoy Courtyard’s football night in the lobby on Thursdays with trivia and game-day specials. In addition, guests checking in on weekday game nights will receive an instant win scratch-off card that includes thousands of prizes such as Wilson Pee Wee Footballs, Madden NFL 25 video games, Pepsi Tailgate Chairs and gift cards.

Football fans can also elevate their hotel experience with Courtyard’s NFL MVP Combo package.  Guests booking this exclusive weekend package will receive a $20 Visa gift card, and a snack pack that includes Pepsi, Bud Light and Frito-Lay products as well as a late checkout when available. Payment must be made with a Visa card, and reservations require a minimum stay of one night with a Friday or Saturday included. The package is available starting Sept. 12, and runs through Feb. 2. Guests can book the rooms online at www.courtyard.com/NFLpackage