The inaugural National Championship under the expanded 12-team format faced a notable decline in viewership. Ohio State's triumph over Notre Dame drew an average of 22.1 million viewers, marking a 12% decrease from the previous year. The peak moment occurred between 8:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. ET, when 26.1 million fans were engaged. This year's championship ranks as the fourth least-watched title game in the past decade.

Viewing habits have undergone significant changes over the years. In 2015, Ohio State's victory over Oregon attracted 33.9 million viewers, setting a record for the College Football Playoff era. At that time, nearly 86% of U.S. TV households subscribed to cable or satellite services. Fast forward to today, and the number of bundled subscribers has dropped to just 40%, with overall pay-TV penetration now at 54%. The shift towards streaming platforms and reduced reliance on traditional TV services has impacted sports viewership across the board. NFL playoff games, for instance, have seen an 8% drop in viewership this season compared to last year.

Sports events that captivate audiences with thrilling competition continue to draw large crowds. A prime example is the 2006 Rose Bowl, where Texas faced USC in an unforgettable match that averaged 35.6 million viewers. Such memorable moments highlight the enduring appeal of closely contested games. Despite challenges posed by changing media consumption patterns, college football remains a beloved sport, capable of rallying fans during pivotal matchups. The key to maintaining engagement lies in delivering high-stakes, competitive contests that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.