Michigan’s Rose Bowl Win Draws Massive Viewership for ESPN
The high-stakes Rose Bowl matchup between Alabama and Michigan proved to be a ratings bonanza for ESPN. According to the Disney-owned network, the game attracted an average audience of 27.2 million viewers, making it the most-watched College Football Playoff semifinal since the 2014-2015 season.
Excitement reached its peak during the game, with a staggering 32.8 million viewers tuning in at one point, marking the highest viewership ever for a CFP semifinal. Not only did this deliver impressive ratings, but it also secured a spot among the top-10 cable telecasts of all time. Furthermore, this event became the most-watched non-NFL sporting event since 2018.
The No. 1-ranked Wolverines staged an incredible comeback in the game, overcoming a seven-point deficit, tying the game late, and eventually triumphing in overtime with a 27-20 victory. Blake Corum’s go-ahead touchdown, followed by a crucial stop, sealed the win for Michigan.
ESPN’s alternate broadcast of the game, featuring renowned personality Pat McAfee and airing on ESPN2, drew its own significant viewership. A total of 1.4 million viewers tuned in, setting a new record for a college football alternate broadcast.
The Sugar Bowl, held on Saturday night between Texas and Washington, also commanded attention, though with slightly lower ratings. The average audience for the game was 18.4 million viewers, peaking at 24.5 million viewers. The 37-31 victory by UW became the fourth most-watched Sugar Bowl since 2004.
Michigan’s dominance in the ratings extends beyond the Rose Bowl. In November, their regular-season finale against Ohio State drew a whopping 19 million viewers on FOX. This game claimed the title of the most-watched regular-season college football game of the year, as well as the most-watched regular-season game on any network since 2011.
The combination of Michigan’s popularity and the allure of a major brand like Alabama undoubtedly contributed to the record-breaking viewership. ESPN secured a ratings win on Monday night while Michigan celebrated its first-ever playoff victory.
As the excitement continues to build, fans can now look forward to the Michigan-Washington national title game scheduled for Monday, January 8, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. The championship clash will also air on ESPN, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. local).
Michigan’s triumph in the Rose Bowl and the overwhelming viewer response highlight the enduring appeal and widespread interest in college football. The impressive ratings not only demonstrate the sport’s popularity but also underscore the fascination with high-stakes matchups. With millions of fans eagerly awaiting the national championship game, the battle for glory on the gridiron promises to be a thrilling spectacle that will captivate audiences worldwide.
