The College Football Playoff (CFP) has evolved into a spectacular event, rivaling the Super Bowl in terms of branding, experiences, and overall pomp. As Ohio State and Notre Dame prepare to clash for the national championship, the sponsor-driven festivities have reached unprecedented levels. The game itself seems to have taken a backseat to the extravagant pregame hype.
The scene is a far cry from the traditional tailgates, Saturday afternoons, and fight songs that once defined college football. Instead, fans are treated to a vast array of brand activations, including the Dr Pepper “Playoffuary” Fan Experience, the Chick-Fil-A inflatable helmet, and the Eckrich-sponsored smoked sausage and deli meat. The sheer scale of these promotions has transformed the CFP into a veritable NFL experience, complete with Super Bowl-level excess.
This dramatic shift has not gone unnoticed. The sport’s explosive growth over the past few years has led to a phenomenon where college football has become increasingly indistinguishable from its professional counterpart. The irony is not lost on observers, given the sport’s historical emphasis on amateurism. However, with the advent of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, players are now compensated for their efforts, acknowledging the significant revenue they generate.
Amidst the chaos, players seem almost like afterthoughts. At the CFP media day, they appeared bemused by the attention surrounding them, from journalists to mascots to puppies. The event itself was reminiscent of the NFL’s Super Bowl media day, with head coaches and star players fielding questions from a packed audience.
As the big game approaches, both Ohio State and Notre Dame will need to maintain their focus amidst the distractions. With the stakes higher than ever, it remains to be seen how they will navigate the challenges of the CFP’s spectacular pregame hype. One thing is certain, however: the sport will continue to evolve, and the lines between college football and the NFL will only continue to blur.
