Source: BroBible
Summary
The Athletic compiled estimates of NIL spending for Power 4 college football programs, revealing significant variation. Ohio State and Oregon lead with over $50 million, while Boston College spends $8–13 million. The list includes UCF, Houston, Oklahoma State, Kansas, Arizona, Iowa State, Cincinnati, Duke, and Boston College. Spending correlates with conference affiliation and program success. Some programs, like Houston and Cincinnati, have shown improvement despite limited budgets.
Our Reading
The habit gets a new name.
Power 4 programs spend wildly different amounts on NIL.
Some teams have big budgets, others have small.
Big 12 and SEC dominate the top spenders.
College football is a sport where money talks, and it’s talking loudly.
Author: Evan Null
College Football NIL Spending Is Wildly Variable
The article details the vast differences in NIL spending among Power 4 college football programs. Ohio State and Oregon lead with over $50 million, while Boston College spends just $8–13 million. The estimates, compiled by The Athletic, highlight how financial resources impact program success and competitiveness.
UCF Knights – $15–$20 Million
UCF, once a top non-power program, has struggled since moving to the Big 12. Despite its large enrollment, the Knights are reported to be spending less on NIL, which has affected their performance. The program has not finished above .500 since 2023.
Houston Cougars – $15–$19 Million
While Houston’s basketball program spends heavily on NIL, its football team has a much smaller budget. Despite this, the Cougars had a strong 2025 season under coach Willie Fritz, going 10-3. The team’s success raises questions about whether increased investment could lead to more consistent performance.
Oklahoma State Cowboys – $15–$19 Million
Oklahoma State’s NIL budget has decreased since the death of T. Boone Pickens, a major donor. The program has struggled, leading to a coaching change. New coach Eric Morris has brought in key transfers, but the team’s financial limitations remain a challenge.
Kansas Jayhawks – $15–$17 Million
Kansas is primarily a basketball school, and its football program has long been underfunded. Despite this, head coach Lance Leipold has managed to keep the team competitive. With new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, the Jayhawks may be on the rise, but their financial constraints persist.
