The Cincinnati Bearcats football team has been named the best team for the money by Forbes Magazine for the 2nd straight year.
"Cost per win: $1,601,0553-year football expenses: $43.6 millionConference: American Athletic ConferenceHead coach: Tommy TubervilleBuying out Tuberville’s contract with Texas Tech cost nearly $1 million while the second-year head coach’s salary is another $2.2 million, and yet the AAC team has spent less than 63 other college football teams."
UC of course took home that honor in 2013 after spending just $1.46 million per win over the last three seasons. Cincinnati won 29 games over the span while spending just $40.2 million on football. From 2012 thru 2014, UC’s football expenses have bumped up to $43.6 million per year and the win total has basically held steady at 28 wins. Hopefully the Bearcats can hit 29 again with a Military Bowl victory on Saturday.
Regardless, it just goes to show how incredible the University of Cincinnati football team has done with such meager resources, spending less than 63 other college football teams. It’s clear the Bearcats have built a winning culture in Clifton that can overcome finances that pale in comparison to many other programs around the country. Imagine what UC could do with Big 12 television money flowing in.
One can dream…
Unfortunately (or fortunately, if you’re a logical person), I don’t think Cincinnati can hold onto their spot atop Forbes’ list for long. The Nippert Stadium renovations are set to pump $17 million or more into the athletic department annually when construction is completed next August. While part of that will go towards supporting the budget such that the University doesn’t have to anymore (less than 30% subsidization, at least), a good portion will be allocated towards the football program.
At this point UC’s wins will become more costly and probably edge them off the pedestal. I don’t think anyone will be raise hell when that happens.