The Auburn Tigers may not have bested the Alabama Crimson Tide in ticket sales for the 2025 season, but there's more to the story than just numbers. Alabama pulled ahead with a $14 million lead in ticket revenue, yet the financial landscape of college sports is far more intricate.
A significant portion of Auburn's expenses came from buyouts for former coaches. Bryan Harsin, the ex-football coach, and Johnnie Harris, the former women's basketball coach, contributed over $4 million to Auburn's financial outlay.
Harsin's departure, despite occurring two and a half years ago, still weighs heavily on the budget. Meanwhile, future reports will continue to reflect payments for Hugh Freeze, adding another layer to Auburn's financial commitments.
Alabama's financial dominance was evident across multiple categories, with the Crimson Tide generating $49.1 million in ticket sales across all sports compared to Auburn's $35.1 million. In football alone, Alabama's ticket revenue reached $42.7 million, outpacing Auburn's $30.7 million.
Interestingly, while Auburn's severance expenses were substantial at $4.3 million, Alabama didn't spend anything in this category, highlighting a stark contrast in financial strategies.
However, the tale of two universities isn't just about revenue. Despite Alabama's larger stadiums and the Tuscaloosa area's greater size, Auburn boasts the backing of billionaire supporters, a significant advantage in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
As Paul Finebaum noted, Auburn's billionaire supporters could provide the Tigers with a unique edge. Their financial muscle may not only influence athletic facilities but also bolster NIL opportunities, reshaping the competitive landscape in Alabama.
In the grand scheme, while Alabama may have won the ticket sales battle, Auburn's strategic financial backing could be a game-changer. The Tigers' supporters have the potential to redefine the playing field, both on and off the gridiron, signaling a shift in power that might soon be reflected in the standings.