Who knows where they got these numbers? I’m sure we’d see a decline with merchandise, tv, and even attendance. But every bad team does. That’s what happens. If we become good and those numbers go up…did we get new fans? Obviously not. It’s just that fans aren’t focused on a 6-6 Cheeto bowl game vs Oregon state in mid December. They aren’t buying that t shirt and they aren’t prognosticating on that game
Took me 5 minutes to research and the data was compiled by SBRnet, a sports analytics firm located in sunny West Palm Beach, FL. They do scores of research in all sports and most of it is compiled by online polls done twice a year, using between 5,000 and 6,500 people age 13+. I'd probably base my poll on 18+, people who actually can buy tickets and attend games without parental supervision. But I guess a 13 year might be an ardent fan as any of us. Center for Sports Analytics at Samford University did the analyzing of the data for completeness and I do know their mathematics and analytics curriculum are pretty good because those who can get into UF's school may not be able to get into Samford's. Private college with pretty high entrance requirements (and cost). Now since we can't get ahold of their survey to figure out how Ole Miss only had 131K fans last year, not much to go on actually. And it does not take into merchandising which I think would be important because if fans are dropping out, they'll take their merchandise money with them. But considering how many outlets sell apparel, I'm not sure how you can tell what is selling or not.
Samford not so much; I went to school in Birmingham and know it well. It’s a small liberal arts college ranked in like the 140s compared to UFs #30. It’s a decent little suitcase college but don’t overhype it just cuz it’s private.
I agree. Freeze may not be a model of integrity and good character but he’s a good football coach. Auburn is well known as being a very tough place to coach. Lot’s of voices there who all think the coach should listen to them. That being said, I think Freeze is probably the best coach that Auburn could get.
I'm pretty sure there were no "research" involved in that article. Do they teach doing research, testing and getting real sources at school anymore?
It’s so funny seeing everyone saying what a crock this article is but if we were rated the highest growth everybody would be saying the opposite. I’m on campus a lot… deal with a ton of students and I gotta tell ya… not only had apathy set in… there are a ton of kids who just make fun of where we are at. There are a ton of factors but product on the field and style of play weight heavily. Have you been to a game last couple years ? Lotta empty seats
TBH, I don’t like Freeze being at Auburn. Not at all. He will get their talent upgraded and he’s a damn good coach. Plus, after getting Pelled he may well have a big chip on his shoulder for the rest of the Conference.
The fans in the stands says a lot our our support. I don't see it diminishing. I wonder if the author was looking at the Covid year numbers? Yeah, we were definitely down that year. I do however liked the all SEC schedule we have that year. Every game that year was meaningful.
Just win baby! That eliminates all the BS. Case in point look no further than FSU on the verge of total fiscal collapse of the Athletic Department to front runner to begin the 23 season. LOL clown squad fans rushed the field after time elapse beating 6-6 UF. Winning cures all. Our time will come.