Ranking College Football’s 25 Biggest Brands Entering the 2024 Season
As college football gears up for the 2024 season, the landscape of the sport is marked not just by on-field talent but by the prominence of its biggest brands. These programs have a mix of historical success, fan loyalty, financial power, and media presence that makes them household names across the country. Heading into the new season, the rankings of the top 25 biggest brands in college football offer insight into the programs that dominate the sport both on and off the field.
1. Alabama Crimson Tide:** At the top of the list is Alabama, a program synonymous with excellence under head coach Nick Saban. With numerous national championships in recent years and a pipeline to the NFL, Alabama remains the gold standard.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes:** Ohio State consistently competes for national titles and boasts one of the largest and most passionate fanbases in the sport. The Buckeyes’ brand is strong both on the field and in the recruiting arena.
3. Texas Longhorns:** Despite recent on-field struggles, Texas remains one of the most valuable brands in college sports, thanks to its massive revenue, historic legacy, and influence within the Big 12 Conference.
4. Georgia Bulldogs:** After back-to-back national championships, Georgia has cemented its place among the elite. The Bulldogs’ recent success has elevated their brand to new heights.
5. Michigan Wolverines:** Michigan’s storied history, combined with recent success under Jim Harbaugh, keeps them as one of the most recognizable and profitable brands in college football.
6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish:** As one of the few independent programs, Notre Dame’s brand is global, bolstered by its historical success and a unique television contract with NBC.
7. USC Trojans:** With Lincoln Riley at the helm and a move to the Big Ten on the horizon, USC’s brand is experiencing a resurgence. The Trojans’ history in producing Heisman winners and NFL stars adds to their appeal.
8. LSU Tigers:** LSU’s passionate fanbase and recent national championship under Ed Orgeron keep the Tigers near the top. Their presence in the SEC and a history of producing NFL talent are key factors.
9. Oklahoma Sooners:** Oklahoma consistently competes for Big 12 titles and has a storied history that includes multiple Heisman winners. Their upcoming move to the SEC adds to their brand’s value.
10. Clemson Tigers:** Clemson has become a perennial playoff contender under Dabo Swinney, with two national championships since 2016. The Tigers’ consistency has made them a major brand in the college football landscape.
11-25.** Rounding out the top 25 are iconic programs that have left their mark on the sport in various ways. This includes Florida, Penn State, Florida State, Miami, Auburn, and Oregon, each with unique strengths in fan engagement, history, and on-field success. Other notable mentions are Wisconsin, Texas A&M, and Washington, who have maintained competitive programs with significant followings.
As college football continues to evolve, particularly with the expanded playoff format and ongoing conference realignment, the strength of these brands will play a critical role in shaping the future of the sport. Fans, media, and recruits alike gravitate towards these powerhouses, making them essential to the sport’s identity and continued growth.
These rankings are not just a reflection of past glories but also an indication of which programs are best positioned to succeed in the rapidly changing landscape of college football. As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on these 25 brands to see how they perform and how they continue to shape the narrative of college football.
