The Ohio State football program is a national brand in college football. Even when they play the worst teams on their schedule, they still draw massive TV numbers. There is a reason why FOX likes to put them on Big Noon Kickoff every chance they get, even if fans hate it.
The Buckeyes are able to fill up stadiums across the Big Ten, as well. In years where they play big-time non-conference opponents, those stadiums get filled, too. Indiana has matched some of the appeal that the Buckeyes have nationwide after playing for a national championship.
IU was able to take down the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Big Ten Championship Game. It was one of two straight games that Ohio State lost to end the season. They also lost to Miami, whom the Hoosiers were able to beat in the National Championship Game.
Indiana comes close to Ohio State in terms of TV numbers
That game against the Hurricanes drew a massive number on Monday night. According to ESPN, 30.1 million people watched the game. It was the second-most-watched College Football Playoff game in history, only trailing the first CFP title game that showcased Ohio State and Oregon.
Having such a wide audience watch this game shows that Indiana has the chance to truly engage a fan base that has been dormant for so long. They have been waiting for the Hoosiers to be good, and now they are national champions. That's something Ohio State fans have felt multiple times.
The Buckeyes are going to try to make sure that the Hoosiers don't feel this good again. They are looking forward to the rematch next season. Ohio State is seen as one of the favorites to win it all in 2026, so they have to make sure the offseason allows the team to improve in the right ways.
Very few programs rival the fan base that Ohio State has. Indiana likely won't in future years, but this latest national championship shows that IU has the opportunity for a more engaged fan base.