What makes certain college football programs more iconic than others?

I'm interested in studying sports management and I've been looking into college football programs for my college search. I keep coming across people talking about iconic college football programs, but what does that mean exactly? Why are some considered more iconic than others, and what impact does that have on a student's experience at that college?

Iconic college football programs are typically those with a rich history, significant achievement, and/or strong community and national recognition. They've historically performed well, perhaps winning numerous conference and national championships, and their games often draw large crowds and deluge of media attention.

Key factors behind the 'iconic' status often include:

Legacy: Many of these programs have a long, storied history dating back decades. They have a reputation built on the exploits of legendary players, coaches, and remarkable games.

Consistent Success: Over the years, powerhouse teams regularly compete for - and often win - championships. It's the consistent level of success over time that substantiates their iconic status. Examples are University of Alabama Football and Berkeley's California Golden Bears, pride themselves on a winning tradition.

Large Fan Base and Community Engagement: Aside from performance, these colleges often have a large, impassioned, and loyal fan base. The community engagement around football and game-day traditions can create a vibrant and unique cultural experience on campus and beyond.

Academic Excellence: Not to be overlooked, institutions like Stanford and Notre Dame also boast strong academic programs in addition to their successful football teams – further enforcing their iconic standings.

Longstanding Rivalries: Historic rivalries like The Auburn Tigers vs The Alabama Crimson Tide, known as the Iron Bowl, often contribute to a program's iconic status. These games bring together fans and alumni from across the country, and offer an experience that extends beyond the football field.

The impact on a student's experience can vary. For some students, being a part of such a community can enhance school spirit, build camaraderie, and offer a unique collegiate experience. It can provide potential networking opportunities given the large community and alumni network associated with these programs. For sports management students specifically, it provides firsthand experience with high-profile athletic programming and management.

However, be aware that the prominence of football or any sports programs shouldn’t distract from the primary purpose of attending college, which is to receive a quality education. Therefore, make sure the school you select is fit for you academically and career-wise too.