Oregon AD Stresses Importance of Challenging Opponents Amidst 12-Team Playoff Era
As the second year of the 12-team College Football Playoff approaches, the debate around scheduling competitive out-of-conference games intensifies. University of Oregon Athletic Director Rob Mullens, in a recent interview on "Unafraid Show" with George Wrighster III, argued that maintaining challenging match-ups in the regular season is paramount for both revenue and fan engagement.
Mullens emphasized that a relevant regular season retains its significance despite the playoff expansion and the financial implications tied to a strong postseason showing. “At the end of the day, conference media revenue is extremely important. But ticket sales and donations linked to that ticket revenue are crucial as well,” he noted.
The financial stakes are high. With each team reaching the College Football Playoff netting conferences $4 million per team, the pressure for athletic departments to produce a glowing win-loss record is significant. For Oregon, its football program generated a staggering $80 million of the athletic department’s $150 million revenue last year, underscoring the critical link between regular-season performance and overall financial health.
Looking ahead, Oregon’s commitment to exciting matchups is clear. Mullens confirmed upcoming home-and-home series with notable programs like Oklahoma State and Baylor, in addition to hosting familiar regional rivals. “I think our formula will still stay the same… you still want the regular season to be relevant,” he reiterated.
With the 2025 season set to kick off with three out-of-conference games, including a clash with Oklahoma State, Oregon aims to bolster its competitive edge while ensuring fan excitement remains a priority in the evolving landscape of college football. As the gap between regular-season results and playoff aspirations narrows, Mullens believes that risk-taking through tough schedules is essential for Oregon’s future success.
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