Money, Money, Money: FSU football scores record TV ratings in Virginia game

Whether fans tune in to see you win or lose, as long as they tune in, it is all that matters. Florida State has mastered threading that needle as they routinely do huge TV ratings, which is why they are one of the most coveted brands in college football.

The Noles and Virginia helped set a record for ESPN Friday night games with 4.4 million viewers, peaking at 6.9 million.

The Noles traveling to Virginia and getting to an early 14-0 deficit against an unranked team as the only college football game on the night probably helped fuel that viewership. FSU stormed back to take a 21-14 lead, and it was 21-21 at the half.

Related Story: 3 Reasons Miami Hurricanes Might Be Frauds Coming To Tallahassee

The game going into double overtime probably helped draw more viewers, as word of mouth spread. The Noles ultimately lost the game, aided by a controversial call to reverse a touchdown by Duce Robinson.

However, the record ratings continue to add to its total this season. The Noles will have another monster TV rating this weekend when they host the rival Miami Hurricanes. That will be at least three different games with likely well over six million viewers each.

That’s more money in the bank for the Noles, as they will likely get the lion’s share of the pot of money the ACC set aside for the teams that draw the most eyeballs. It’s the point FSU was trying to prove before suing the ACC, and ultimately settling earlier this year. However, the settlement included the opportunity to make more money. If FSU pulls the mild upset over Miami, they’ll likely continue to draw solid numbers against Clemson and Florida unless both those teams continue to tank.