Why might a profitable college football team attract students?

So, I read this Forbes article about the most profitable college football teams and it got me thinking. Do students apply to these schools because of their football teams' profitability? Does this profitability translate into benefits for students, like scholarships or improved facilities?

A profitable college football team can indeed attract students, and not just for its athletic prowess. Let's break down the main reasons:

1. School Spirit: College football teams, especially successful ones, tend to foster a strong sense of community and school spirit. This can lead to enriching college experiences that go beyond the classroom, making the school more appealing to prospective students.

2. Enhanced Reputation: College football can increase awareness and visibility of a school on a national level. For example, if the team competes in televised games or championships, the institution gains significant exposure. This can elevate the school's reputation and attractiveness to potential students.

3. Scholarships: Profitable football teams can provide financial assistance in the form of athletic scholarships. This doesn’t just benefit the athletes, but can also indirectly benefit other students. The revenue generated can infuse the general scholarship fund and widen the pool of monetary support for the wider student body.

4. Improved Facilities and Services: Profits from successful football teams are often reinvested in the school, leading to improvements in campus facilities like libraries, research centers, and dormitories, or developing new academic programs. This creates a better learning environment which can attract students.

5. Networking and Career Opportunities: Lastly, such colleges often attract notable alumni, creating networking opportunities. These relationships can lead to enhanced job placement rates and internships, a factor attractive to many prospective students.

In short, the profitability of a college football team may translate into multiple benefits that can attract students, even if they're not particularly interested in football themselves.