N※N

Show Sports and Competition Publications

The Athletic''s college sports survey: What do fans want?

College Football Fans Speak Out: Key Insights from the 2025 Fan Survey

In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where conference realignments, name-image-likeness (NIL) deals, and playoff expansions continue to reshape the sport, a comprehensive survey of fans provides a fascinating snapshot of the community's pulse heading into the 2025 season. Conducted by The Athletic, this wide-ranging poll gathered responses from thousands of dedicated followers across the country, delving into their excitement levels, gripes, predictions, and hopes for what promises to be another transformative year. From the dominance of powerhouse conferences to the rise of underdogs and the ongoing debates over player compensation, the results paint a picture of a fanbase that's passionate, opinionated, and deeply invested in the future of the game.

At the heart of the survey is an overwhelming sense of optimism mixed with cautious realism. A significant majority—around 78% of respondents—expressed high levels of excitement for the 2025 season, citing the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff as a major draw. Fans appreciate how the new format opens doors for more teams to compete for the national title, potentially injecting fresh narratives into what has often felt like a predictable parade of blue-blood programs. One respondent encapsulated this sentiment: "The playoff expansion is a game-changer. No more whining about who got left out—now it's about proving it on the field." However, this enthusiasm isn't universal. About 15% of fans reported feeling somewhat disillusioned, pointing to the commercialization of the sport as a turnoff. Comments like "College football is becoming too much like the pros with all the money involved" highlight a lingering nostalgia for the amateur ethos that once defined the game.

Conference realignment remains a hot-button issue, with the survey revealing deep divisions. The Big Ten and SEC, bolstered by recent additions like USC, UCLA, Texas, and Oklahoma, are seen by 65% of fans as the undisputed kings of college football. Respondents praised the increased competition and national appeal these super-conferences bring, with many predicting that the 2025 national champion will hail from one of these leagues. "The SEC is stacked now more than ever," noted one fan from the South. "Adding Texas and Oklahoma just makes the rivalries even fiercer." Yet, there's palpable resentment toward what some call the "power grab." Fans of programs in the ACC and Big 12, which together accounted for 22% of responses, voiced frustration over being left behind. A recurring theme was the fear that smaller conferences like the Pac-12 remnants or Group of Five schools are being marginalized. "Realignment is killing the regional flavor of the game," complained a West Coast respondent. "Why should Oregon and Washington have to travel to Rutgers? It's absurd."

On the topic of NIL and revenue sharing, the survey uncovers a fanbase grappling with modernization. A slim majority—52%—supports the current NIL framework, viewing it as a fair way for athletes to capitalize on their talents amid the billions generated by the sport. Stories of players like star quarterbacks securing lucrative endorsement deals were celebrated by many, with fans arguing that it's long overdue compensation for the risks and efforts involved. "These kids deserve to get paid; they're the ones filling the stadiums," said one supporter. However, 40% expressed concerns about unintended consequences, such as recruiting imbalances where wealthier programs can outbid others for top talent. The survey also touched on the House v. NCAA settlement, which could lead to direct revenue sharing with athletes starting in 2025. Here, opinions were more favorable, with 68% in favor, though many worried about how it might affect roster sizes or non-revenue sports. "If it means cutting Olympic sports to pay football players, that's a problem," warned a respondent from a mid-major school.

Predictions for the 2025 season form a lively section of the survey, showcasing fans' bold takes and loyalties. Georgia emerged as the top pick to win the national title, garnering 28% of votes, thanks to their consistent recruiting and coaching under Kirby Smart. Ohio State followed closely at 22%, with fans buzzing about the Buckeyes' loaded roster and the pressure on Ryan Day to deliver a championship. Other contenders like Texas (15%), Alabama (12%), and Oregon (10%) rounded out the top five, reflecting the concentration of talent in the expanded SEC and Big Ten. Underdog stories also captured imaginations; programs like Notre Dame and Clemson received shoutouts for their potential to disrupt the favorites. In terms of Heisman Trophy hopefuls, quarterbacks dominated the conversation, with names like Texas' Quinn Ewers and Georgia's Carson Beck leading the pack. Fans also speculated on breakout stars, with many eyeing transfers and freshmen who could make an immediate impact in the NIL era.

Rivalries and traditions continue to be the lifeblood of college football, according to the survey. Classics like the Iron Bowl (Alabama vs. Auburn) and The Game (Michigan vs. Ohio State) were voted as the most anticipated matchups, with 45% of fans saying these games are what keep them hooked year after year. New rivalries born from realignment, such as USC vs. Ohio State in the Big Ten, generated excitement, but also some skepticism about whether they can match the historical intensity. Tailgating and game-day atmospheres were highlighted as essential, with respondents from SEC schools boasting about their legendary pre-game scenes. "Nothing beats a Saturday in the Grove at Ole Miss," enthused one fan. However, travel logistics due to conference expansions drew complaints, with 30% of respondents noting that longer trips could deter attendance.

The survey didn't shy away from broader cultural and logistical issues. Media coverage and broadcasting deals were a mixed bag; while fans appreciated the accessibility provided by networks like ESPN and Fox, 55% criticized the saturation of commercials and the prioritization of big games over smaller ones. Streaming services received praise for on-demand viewing, but older fans lamented the shift away from traditional TV. Diversity and inclusion also surfaced, with 62% of respondents calling for more representation in coaching ranks and front offices, pointing to progress but insisting on further action. Mental health awareness for athletes, amplified by recent high-profile cases, resonated strongly, with nearly 80% supporting expanded resources.

Looking ahead, the survey asked fans about their wildest dreams and worst fears for college football's future. Optimists envisioned a more equitable playoff system that includes automatic bids for all conferences, fostering true national competition. Pessimists worried about the sport fracturing into a "super league" dominated by a handful of elite programs, leaving others in the dust. "If we don't balance the power, we'll lose what makes college football special—the upsets, the pageantry, the underdogs," summarized one response.

Overall, this fan survey underscores a community at a crossroads. College football in 2025 is bigger, richer, and more professionalized than ever, but it's also facing identity questions that could define its trajectory for decades. Fans are excited about the on-field product—the thrilling games, emerging stars, and epic showdowns—but they're equally vocal about preserving the traditions that make the sport unique. As one respondent put it, "We love college football because it's chaotic and heartfelt. Let's not let money ruin that." With the season kickoff approaching, these insights remind us that while administrators and coaches steer the ship, it's the fans' voices that truly echo through the stadiums.

(Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6513297/2025/07/24/college-sports-football-fans-survey-2025/ ]