While Wednesday’s Rose Bowl lacked dramatic on-field moments, it delivered impressive viewership numbers. Ohio State’s dominant 41-21 win over Oregon averaged 21.1 million viewers and peaked at 24.3 million, according to ESPN. These figures made it the most-watched of the four College Football Playoff (CFP) Quarterfinal games and the most-watched non-NFL sporting event since the 2024 CFP National Championship between Michigan and Washington.
The game’s alternative broadcast, hosted by Pat McAfee, also set records. Drawing 2.4 million viewers, it became the “most-viewed altcast ever,” reflecting growing interest in unique approaches to game coverage.
ESPN reported strong numbers across all its CFP broadcasts. Texas’ thrilling overtime victory over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl averaged 17.3 million viewers, peaking at 23.6 million, making it the most-watched pre-3 p.m. bowl game of all time.
Notre Dame’s Sugar Bowl win over Georgia drew an average of 15.8 million viewers, peaking at 19.5 million, while Penn State’s Fiesta Bowl victory over Boise State averaged 13.9 million and peaked at 15.9 million.
Additionally, College GameDay averaged 2.4 million viewers on New Year’s Day, peaking at 4.6 million. ESPN touted it as the “most-watched January 1 episode ever,” with a 70% year-over-year increase in viewership.
Looking ahead, the CFP Semifinals are set to feature high-profile matchups: Penn State vs. Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl and Ohio State vs. Texas in the Cotton Bowl. With powerhouse programs on display, these games—and the National Championship—are expected to attract even larger audiences, solidifying college football’s growing dominance in the sports landscape.
