The exact amount Chattanooga is receiving to play Tennessee in 2024 hasn't been publicly disclosed by either institution. College football game contracts, particularly those involving a major program like the University of Tennessee, often contain confidentiality clauses. These clauses protect the financial details of the agreement, preventing public scrutiny of specific payment amounts.
Understanding the Financial Dynamics of Such Games
While the precise figure remains undisclosed, we can analyze the factors influencing the payment Chattanooga receives:
Game Guarantees: A Common Practice
It's standard practice for smaller football programs to receive a "guarantee" from larger schools to play them. This guarantee compensates the smaller school for the time, effort, and travel expenses associated with the game. The guarantee essentially covers the cost of preparing for and traveling to the game, potentially including things like:
- Travel expenses: Transportation (buses, flights), accommodation, meals for players, coaches, and staff.
- Game preparation costs: Additional coaching staff, equipment rentals, and other logistical preparations for a game against a higher-tier opponent.
- Potential revenue share: While less common in such matchups, a small revenue share from concessions or ticket sales might also be included.
Factors Influencing the Guarantee Amount
Several factors influence the amount Chattanooga receives:
- Tennessee's prestige: As a major Power Five program, Tennessee commands a higher payment. Their national profile and large fanbase significantly impact the game's potential revenue, and this influences the amount they're willing to pay a smaller school.
- Game location: The game being played at Neyland Stadium (Tennessee's home stadium) would generally result in a lower guarantee for Chattanooga compared to a neutral site game. The revenue potential for Tennessee is greater at their home stadium, reducing their need to offer a higher guarantee.
- Previous agreements: Past agreements between similar programs can serve as a benchmark for negotiations. While specifics aren't public, historical data provides insight into the general range of guarantees.
- Negotiating power: The relative negotiating power of both institutions influences the final amount. A stronger negotiation position by Chattanooga (perhaps due to a successful previous season) could result in a higher guarantee.
Where to Find Potential Clues (But No Guarantees)
While the exact figure is unlikely to be revealed publicly, you might find some clues by:
- Checking Chattanooga's athletic department budget: Publicly available financial reports from Chattanooga might contain broad budget allocations for "game guarantees," though the specific amount for the Tennessee game wouldn't likely be itemized.
- Reviewing similar game contracts: Researching public records of games between other smaller programs and Power Five schools could offer a general range, though significant variations exist between different situations.
- Following college sports news: Sports journalists or bloggers might speculate on the guarantee amount based on their industry knowledge, but these remain opinions and not confirmed figures.
In conclusion, while the specific payment amount remains confidential, the guarantee Chattanooga receives is likely substantial, covering their costs and potentially offering a modest profit. The game serves as a valuable opportunity for Chattanooga's program, offering exposure, experience, and financial support.
