The Fighting Irish's TV Appeal: A Reputation in Question
The world of college football is abuzz with a startling revelation: Notre Dame, the iconic Catholic university with a rich history, is facing a ratings dilemma. This week, Paul Finebaum dared to question the Fighting Irish's TV draw, sparking a heated debate.
A Bold Claim: "Does anybody watch these games?" Finebaum wondered aloud, challenging the very notion of Notre Dame's popularity. He argued that their brand, despite its prestige, doesn't quite measure up to the SEC or Big Ten in terms of viewership.
But here's the twist: Notre Dame, with its proud pigskin traditions and lucrative TV deal, seems to be at odds with its actual TV performance. As they declare war on the College Football Playoff committee, a deeper look at the numbers reveals a surprising trend.
The Ratings Reality:
- The 10-2 Irish failed to crack the Top 10 most-watched college football teams this season, ranking 15th with 3.9 million viewers. They trailed powerhouses like Florida, Ole Miss, and Florida State, and even some less-heralded teams.
- Alabama reigned supreme, attracting over 8.4 million viewers on average, followed by Texas, Georgia, and other SEC powerhouses. The SEC dominated the top spots, showcasing its massive appeal.
- Notre Dame's season opener against Miami was their only appearance in the Top 20 most-watched games, drawing 10.8 million viewers. Yet, even this high-profile matchup didn't secure them a playoff spot.
- Last season's near-perfect run, ending in a championship loss to Ohio State, saw a 12% viewership drop compared to the previous CFP title game.
The Disconnect: Notre Dame, with its rich history and passionate fans, believes it's an elite TV attraction. However, the numbers suggest they've become a more modest draw, akin to the Indianapolis Colts rather than the Dallas Cowboys.
Controversy Alert: While TV ratings aren't the sole measure of success, they do raise questions. The Irish's slow start this season and the timing of their natty against Ohio State might have impacted viewership. But is it fair to compare Notre Dame's TV appeal to its championship drought?
The AD's Crusade: Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua has been on a media blitz, accusing the CFP committee of stealing a playoff spot. He's even warned the ACC of permanent damage to their relationship. But his aggressive stance has backfired, with Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark calling it "egregious" and "out of bounds."
The College Football Divide: As Notre Dame's AD continues his media tour, the college football community is divided. ESPN's Mike Greenberg, once a supporter, now questions the Irish's recent success. The network, which pays billions for CFP, ACC, and SEC rights, isn't likely to sympathize with Notre Dame's plight.
The Takeaway: Notre Dame's TV ratings don't align with its prestigious reputation. While the Fighting Irish have a rich history and passionate fans, their on-field performance and TV appeal seem to be at a crossroads. Is this a temporary setback or a sign of a changing landscape? Share your thoughts below!
