These cities watched more college football than any one else this season

At least SEC country can celebrate one title this offseason. The Nielsen ratings are in for the 2025 college football season and Birmingham, Alabama ranked No. 1.

Six other SEC markets made the top 10, though Ohio State’s rabid fan base helped the Buckeyes land spots No. 2 (Columbus) and No. 3 (Dayton).

Here’s a look at this year’s top 10 markets, which didn’t feature too many surprises. However, Indianapolis is notably absent despite Indiana’s historic season and a heavy Notre Dame contingent in the market. Guess it just means more down south.

Top TV markets for 2025 college football season

List via Nielsen, numbers from July 31-Dec. 17.

1. Birmingham (Alabama/Auburn)
2. Columbus (Ohio State)
3. Dayton (Ohio State)
4. Greenville-Spartanburg-Asheville (Clemson)
5. Tulsa (Oklahoma/Oklahoma State)
6. Oklahoma City (Oklahoma)
7. Atlanta (Georgia/Georgia Tech)
8. Knoxville (Tennessee)
9. New Orleans (LSU)
10. Jacksonville (Florida/Georgia)