That pair, and others like it, became part of notable trend in the 2024-25 bowl season: 21 of the 30 non-Playoff bowls that aired on an ESPN network through Jan. 2 saw year-over-year viewership increases, the majority of them by 20 percent or more.

Unlike last night’s College Football Playoff matchup, both programs participating in Friday's second semifinal can at least claim national championships in the 21st century. But they, too, have legions of devoted followers who are not exactly known for their patience when it comes to title aspirations.