The expansion of college football outside of US borders has been happening for a number of years now. One of the early games overseas took place in 1988 when Boston College beat Army 38-24. But only in recent years has this become a more permanent arrangement. Games in Dublin have been taking place regularly since 2012. The aim of these games is attracting Irish nationals to the games by having college teams with Irish backgrounds represented. So far we’ve seen Notre Dame appear twice and Boston College return in 2016 to face Georgia Tech.
Why the Cal-Hawaii Season Opener is Being Played in Sydney
Games in Australia
Previously, BYU and Colorado State played a game in Melbourne in 1987. But this year has seen the interest in growing the game re-ignite with Cal and Hawaii playing in Sydney. Naturally for the NCAA and college football in general, more exposure to foreign markets could help improve the income of each conference. Not forgetting the potential benefits as well as the programs themselves if it proves to be successful. The NFL has shown that there is an appetite for football outside of North America. The fact they sell out London three times per year with pro games is testament to this.
BERKELEY, CA – NOVEMBER 28: Noah Westerfield #33 of the California Golden Bears runs onto the field prior to the start of an NCAA football game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at California Memorial Stadium on November 28, 2015 in Berkeley, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
