Kelley Ford Analytics has released its annual breakdown of the most valuable season ticket packages in college football, and the Iowa State Cyclones sit at the very top.
Ford’s data-driven rankings factor in ticket cost, home schedule strength, and projected team competitiveness, and Iowa State came out ahead of every SEC and Big Ten program on the board.
The Cyclones’ rise to No. 1 shouldn’t come as a total shock. Home games in Ames have been packed for years, and the ongoing development of the CyTown project only enhances the game-day experience.
With a passionate fan base, a consistently strong schedule, and one of the most engaged communities in college football, Iowa State delivers premium value for season ticket holders. It’s a combination that’s hard to match, especially in today’s era of rising prices and watered-down matchups.
Baylor and TCU also landed in the top 10, coming in at No. 6 and No. 9, respectively. That’s a big win for the Big 12 and a signal that its fan bases are more than holding their own against the traditional powers.
Baylor’s placement reflects the program’s stability and value in Waco, while TCU continues to ride the wave of playoff relevance and strong support in Fort Worth.
The list serves as a strong counter to national narratives that often discount Big 12 programs in favor of larger-market or legacy brands. Ford’s rankings show that in 2025, some of the best value in college football is coming from the middle of the country.
With realignment settling and media deals on the horizon, the Big 12’s ability to deliver engaged, high-value product will only become more important.
If Iowa State, Baylor, and TCU continue to pack stadiums and deliver competitive football, they won’t just be winning on Saturdays; they’ll be winning in the ticket booth, too.
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