College football is increasingly being played in international and NFL stadiums, a move driven by revenue generation that separates the sport from its traditional campus environment. North Carolina will kick off its season against TCU in Dublin, Ireland, marking the fifth consecutive year that Ireland has hosted a Week 0 game. Arizona State will face Kansas in London’s Wembley Stadium later in the season.
This expansion mirrors a trend in the NFL, which is also increasing its international presence with nine games scheduled in international stadiums this season. However, commentators question whether the unique appeal of college football—the traditions and atmosphere surrounding games on campus—will translate to international audiences.
The shift is motivated by universities and broadcasters seeking to maximize revenue. They view college football teams as a marketable product and are moving games to locations with high demand. As one writer notes, college students spend years anticipating their time on campus and then longing to return, a sentiment administrators and broadcasters seem to be overlooking as they prioritize financial gains.
The author argues that the core of what makes college football special isn't the quality of play—which can be found in professional leagues—but rather the entire experience surrounding the game. This includes pre-game tailgates, school bands, reunions, and the overall atmosphere on and around campus. This atmosphere, the author contends, is unlikely to be replicated in international or NFL stadiums.
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