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SEC Dominates TV Ratings Over Big Ten
4 Dec, 2025
Summary
- SEC games have nine of top 10 highest TV ratings.
- Big Ten has only three conference games in top ratings.
- SEC's single-network deal with Disney boosts promotion.

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) is commanding superior television viewership in college football compared to the Big Ten Conference. This season, SEC games dominate the ratings, securing nine of the top 10 most-watched matchups, whereas the Big Ten has only three conference games appearing on this list. This trend highlights a significant advantage for the SEC in attracting viewers.
Several factors contribute to the SEC's television dominance. The conference boasts greater brand depth with more highly ranked teams and established rivalries. Its exclusive partnership with Disney (ABC, ESPN, SEC Network) facilitates unified promotion and a cohesive viewing strategy, creating better audience flow between games. In contrast, the Big Ten's fragmentation across Fox, CBS, and NBC, along with challenges in scheduling and streaming exclusivity, has hindered its national narrative.



