The recent College Football Playoff (CFP) national championship between Ohio State and Notre Dame attracted an average of 22.1 million viewers, marking a decline from the previous year's Michigan-Washington matchup, which averaged 25 million viewers. This year's finale became the third-least-watched title game in the CFP era, according to Sports Media Watch data. Despite this dip, the event still managed to capture more than half of all TV viewers in the 18-49 age demographic and was the most-watched non-NFL sporting event in the past year. The championship peaked with over 26 million viewers and remained the highest-rated game of the season, followed by the Rose Bowl and Cotton Bowl games.

Impact of Timing and Competition on Viewership

The scheduling changes for the CFP have had a noticeable effect on viewer numbers. This year's championship fell on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, pushing it later into January and potentially affecting its audience. Additionally, the first round of the playoffs coincided with NFL games, creating competition for viewers' attention. These factors may have contributed to the lower-than-expected viewership, despite featuring two prominent college football programs. The expanded format has introduced new challenges, prompting discussions among conference commissioners and university leaders about potential adjustments to the schedule and structure.

While the championship did not reach the heights of earlier years, such as the inaugural CFP title game that drew 34.1 million viewers, it still outperformed other recent finals. For instance, the 2021 Alabama–Ohio State game and Georgia's victory over TCU in 2022 both saw lower viewership. The timing and competitive landscape played crucial roles in shaping the audience size. The championship peaked with over 26 million viewers at certain points, indicating strong interest even amidst scheduling challenges. As stakeholders consider future changes, they will need to balance the expanded format with optimal viewing times to maximize engagement.

Potential Future Enhancements for CFP Broadcasts

To address concerns about declining viewership, ESPN and the CFP are exploring strategies to boost audience numbers. Starting in the 2026-27 season, the national championship will air on ABC in addition to ESPN platforms, providing a broader broadcast reach. This move aims to mitigate the impact of decreasing linear TV viewership and ensure wider accessibility for fans. By incorporating an over-the-air component, the CFP hopes to attract a larger and more diverse audience, even as viewing habits evolve.

Despite the current dip in viewership, there are reasons for optimism. The expanded media rights agreement signals a commitment to enhancing the fan experience through multiple channels. The MegaCast presentation across various ESPN platforms will offer viewers more ways to engage with the championship, catering to different preferences. Moreover, the inclusion of ABC could prevent significant viewership drops, especially as traditional TV audiences continue to shrink. While challenges remain, these strategic moves position the CFP to maintain its relevance and appeal in the rapidly changing media landscape.