The recent offseason for college football has been turbulent. Discussions around expanding the College Football Playoff, Lane Kiffin’s NFL-to-LSU pipeline, and the challenges in the transfer portal highlight ongoing issues. Week zero has passed, and now college football returns for week one, starting Thursday evening through the Labor Day weekend. This marks a reminder of why many prefer college football over the NFL.
Week One Impact
The first full week of college football is crucial. The playoffs can dramatically impact teams’ seasons due to how few qualify. In the NFL, 44% of the league’s 32 teams make the playoffs. In college football, only 12 of 68 teams from major conferences and Notre Dame reach the College Football Playoff, meaning 16.1% get the chance for postseason action. The example of Notre Dame’s 2025 season shows the importance of each game. Their early losses blocked playoff entry to the 12-team field.
Upsets Matter
Upsets carry more weight due to subjective rankings in college football. For example, if Wisconsin defeats Notre Dame, it could alter the season. College football generally offers more excitement and unpredictability than the NFL.
Quality vs. Chaos
The NFL is known for higher quality with better athletes and coaches. However, the systems and rules often hinder exciting plays. College football players possess less perfection, leading to chaotic and thrilling matches. Defenses in the NFL are too good, with rule changes often made to favor reaching field goals or benefitting offenses. In college football, high-scoring games and wild comebacks are frequent.
Rivalries
College football rivalries have deep-rooted importance. Although the NFL has rivalries like Cowboys-Commanders and Packers-Bears, they cannot match the intensity of college matchups such as Texas-Oklahoma or Michigan-Ohio State. These games can define seasons and coaching tenures.
Unique Stadiums
The NFL stadiums often emphasize corporate luxury over character. In contrast, college football boasts incredible venues like the Rose Bowl and Notre Dame Stadium. These places hold unique atmospheres and traditions. College football stadiums offer experiences that NFL stadiums cannot replicate.
The arrival of college football season brings attention to why its fans cherish it. As alternatives, fans can only look to the NFL.
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