How much do college football programs typically earn for their schools?

I've heard that college football can be a huge source of income for certain schools. Anyone know specifics? Like which schools earn the most from their football programs?

You're absolutely right—college football can generate substantial revenue for schools, particularly those that boast high-performing and popular teams. This revenue comes mostly from lucrative television contracts, ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, and individual donations from alumni and fans.

The exact amount a school earns can vary widely based on several factors, including the team's performance, the division they're in, the size of their fan base, and more. Teams in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), many of which are part of what's collectively referred to as the "Power 5" conferences (the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, and SEC), generally generate the most revenue.

The University of Texas, University of Alabama, and Ohio State University, for instance, regularly find themselves listed among the highest earners in college football. In some years, these schools have reported football revenues surpassing $100 million.

In contrast, smaller schools or those in lower divisions might not generate nearly as much. Some football programs may not even be profitable due to high operating costs, such as scholarships, coaching salaries, and facility maintenance.

It's important to note that while such revenues can significantly impact a school's athletic department, they make up only a small portion of the overall financial picture for a university. The bulk of a typical university’s budget is made up of tuition, state funding (for public schools), research grants, and endowments.