The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship lived up to the hype not just on the field but also in the ratings. The thrilling showdown between Ohio State and Notre Dame, which ended in a 34-23 victory for the Buckeyes, captivated millions of viewers and secured its place as the most-watched non-NFL sporting event of the past year.
According to official reports, the title game drew an impressive 22.1 million viewers, a testament to the enduring appeal of college football and the intensity of this year’s matchup. Viewership peaked between 8:30 and 8:45 p.m. ET, with a staggering 26.1 million fans tuning in during that window to witness the dramatic moments unfold.
The high stakes and historic nature of the game contributed significantly to the massive audience. Ohio State’s victory marked yet another milestone for one of the sport’s most storied programs, while Notre Dame’s appearance in the championship added its own layer of intrigue, given the Fighting Irish’s rich football legacy.
The CFP title game continues to dominate the sports landscape, with its ratings demonstrating college football’s broad appeal and ability to draw fans from across the nation. Beyond the game itself, the spectacle of the championship, from pregame festivities to halftime performances, has become a cultural phenomenon.
In a media landscape saturated with competition, the success of the CFP title game underscores the unmatched excitement and tradition that college football brings to fans. With the 12-team playoff expansion on the horizon, viewership numbers like these hint at an even brighter future for the sport, ensuring its continued dominance as one of the most beloved institutions in American sports.
