Understanding the Financial Impact of Ohio State Football

When it comes to college football, Ohio State University’s team is often at the forefront of discussions regarding revenue and success. One of the most frequently asked questions is: how much money does Ohio State football make per game? This article delves into the various aspects that contribute to the team’s financial prowess, providing a comprehensive look at the numbers behind the Buckeyes’ on-field achievements.

Revenue Streams

Ohio State football generates revenue through a multitude of sources. The most significant of these is ticket sales. The team’s home games are consistently among the highest-grossing in the nation, with fans flocking to Columbus to see the Buckeyes in action. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Ohio State’s home games brought in an average of $7.5 million per game during the 2019 season.

Additionally, the team benefits from television revenue. The Big Ten Conference, of which Ohio State is a member, has a lucrative television deal that provides substantial funds to its member schools. The conference’s media rights agreement is worth an estimated $2.6 billion over the next 12 years, with Ohio State’s share of this revenue contributing significantly to the team’s bottom line.

Merchandise and Licensing

Merchandise and licensing also play a crucial role in Ohio State football’s financial success. The team has a vast array of apparel, accessories, and memorabilia available for fans to purchase. According to a report by the Columbus Dispatch, Ohio State’s athletic department generated $40 million in merchandise sales in 2019. This figure does not include licensing revenue, which is also a significant source of income.

Donations and Fundraising

Donations and fundraising efforts are another vital component of Ohio State football’s financial picture. The university has a strong tradition of alumni support, with many former players and fans contributing to the team’s success. In 2019, the athletic department raised $100 million in donations, with a significant portion of this going to support the football program.

Facility and Operations Costs

While Ohio State football generates substantial revenue, it’s important to consider the costs associated with operating the program. These include salaries for coaches and staff, facility maintenance, travel expenses, and other operational costs. According to a report by the Columbus Dispatch, the football program’s operating budget for the 2019 season was approximately $80 million.

Per Game Revenue Breakdown

Now, let’s break down the per game revenue for Ohio State football. Based on the information provided, we can calculate the following:

Revenue Stream	Estimated Revenue per Game
Home Game Ticket Sales	$7.5 million
Television Revenue	$1.5 million
Merchandise and Licensing	$500,000
Donations and Fundraising	$1 million
Total Revenue	$10.5 million

As we can see from the table, the estimated revenue per game for Ohio State football is approximately $10.5 million. This figure does not include other potential revenue streams, such as corporate sponsorships and bowl game appearances.

Conclusion

Understanding how much money Ohio State football makes per game requires examining the various revenue streams and costs associated with the program. While the team generates significant revenue through ticket sales, television rights, merchandise, and donations, it’s important to remember that these funds are used to support the entire athletic department, not just the football program. As the Buckeyes continue to excel on the field, their financial success will likely remain a topic of interest for fans and analysts alike.