The upcoming college football game between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 3 Penn State is not only significant for its competitive stakes but also as a battleground for TV networks. On Saturday, both ESPN’s College GameDay and Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff will be live from the same campus, showcasing the intense rivalry between America's biggest sports broadcasts. ESPN’s College GameDay has topped the ratings with an average of 2.2 million viewers, while Fox's Big Noon Kickoff attracts just under a million. The competition is heightened by notable elements like the involvement of Nick Saban on College GameDay and unique contests contributing to its popularity. As both networks vie for viewers, the clash illustrates the ongoing evolution of sports media.

By the Numbers
  • College GameDay averages 2.2 million viewers each week.
  • Big Noon Kickoff draws just under one million viewers weekly.
Yes, But

While College GameDay currently holds a significant ratings lead, recent gains by Fox suggest the competition is still dynamic and evolving in the college football broadcast landscape.

State of Play
  • The competition for viewers is intensified as both shows broadcast from Ohio State's campus.
  • Urban Meyer and a celebrity cast on Big Noon Kickoff are working to close the ratings gap with College GameDay.
What's Next

Future broadcasts will likely see similar competitive dynamics, as both networks continue to innovate and adapt their programming to attract larger audiences.

Bottom Line

This showdown is more than just a game; it's a reflection of the rivalry between TV networks striving to dominate college sports viewership and adapt to changing viewer preferences.