I project around 13. For most of the minor bowls the stadiums are empty. Would you watch a college football game with inferior talent if you didn't have a bet on the game. Without viewers ESPN could not afford to keep these bowl games afloat. The sponsors would bail in droves without viewership. If no one watches they can't promote their company. I understand if your a sports fan who will watch any event on TV you will tune in whether you have a bet on the game or not. The bottom line however is the only thing that is keeping these games afloat is wagering. There were 11 bowl games in 1970 when sports betting had little impact on viewing. Only three networks. How many viewers do you think the Liberty Bowl got on December 12 1970. You can't say the same thing about pro football. Wagering helped it get as big as it is today but the viewers were still there 50 years ago. Come on, 40+ bowl games and routinely about 25% of the teams have losing records.
I've read that some of these teams actually lose money going to the games. I know the kids get a trip out of it and some swag but don't they realize what a joke it is. Playing in front of an empty stadium and the viewers at home only caring if they win a wager. The game is nothing more than a participation trophy. All the extra games just cheapen major bowls and the teams that really deserve to be playing in December and January.
I've read that some of these teams actually lose money going to the games. I know the kids get a trip out of it and some swag but don't they realize what a joke it is. Playing in front of an empty stadium and the viewers at home only caring if they win a wager. The game is nothing more than a participation trophy. All the extra games just cheapen major bowls and the teams that really deserve to be playing in December and January.
