The entry fee for the Big Ten championship game is currently less than $20 on StubHub.

This situation has stirred up quite a frenzy in the college football community, leading to exaggerated reactions.

Many are claiming that the expansion has destroyed the essence of college football.

People argue that the Big Ten has no real connection to Oregon.

Some say that the new 12-team College Football Playoff has diminished the significance of conference championship games.

All of these claims are overreactions and mental gymnastics.

Ever wondered why you can walk into Lucas Oil Stadium for so little? It’s simply because the game lacks appeal.

Ohio State failed to defeat Michigan once again, and Michigan itself dropped five games as the reigning national champion. If either Ohio State or Michigan were in the matchup, tickets would be going for at least 20 times more than the current low price.

“Our players are thrilled,” stated Oregon coach Dan Lanning.

If you’re looking to point fingers at who is responsible for the waning interest, consider blaming Oregon.

The Ducks have dominated the Big Ten in their first year of joining, accepting half the media rights revenue just to be part of the conference, and have trounced everyone in their path to Indianapolis.

And let’s not forget about Penn State, which might be the most tedious 11-1 team ever. Where’s the innovative offense from Andy Kotelnicki that we were promised?

The offense at Penn State looks just like every other scheme we’ve seen under James Franklin: play it safe, avoid risky moves, and rely on a strong defense.

Essentially, it resembles Iowa’s approach but with more skilled players and a better quarterback.

If you’re pointing fingers at the lack of excitement, don’t forget about Michigan. You can’t underperform for 11 games and then suddenly excel in the most important game, eliminating the much-anticipated Oregon-Ohio State rematch.

Maybe Michigan can take it easy on the Buckeyes next season, if that’s not asking too much.

Picture this: complaining about Oregon and Penn State squaring off for a championship while the ticket price is ridiculously low. Or lamenting the rematch between Texas and Georgia in the SEC championship.

These are four of the top five teams in the College Football Playoff competing for titles.

Imagine the ACC, Big 12, and Mountain West Conference all battling for playoff spots, and yet, people still find something to complain about. Win a conference championship, secure a playoff berth.

Yes, that sounds awful.

If you’re looking to blame someone for the lack of interest, point your finger at the relentless negativity spread on social media.

The Big Ten championship remains significant, as do all championship games within the Power Four conferences.

We could discuss eliminating these games and the playoff selection committee while deciding bids based on who knows what, but for now, the idea that championship games lack meaning is simply absurd.

Recently, Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin expressed doubts about why anyone would want to compete in a championship game if a loss might sideline them from the playoffs. What a defeatist mindset.

Winning these championship games – isn’t that the goal? – comes with its own rewards. Just think about those championship rings; large, shiny, and lasting memorabilia that no one can take from you, creating memories that will last a lifetime and matter most in your athletic journey.

Why would you want to eliminate these games because they “mean nothing”? For whom? Benefits?

Expansion has certainly not tainted college football or diminished its unique culture and excitement, nor has it undermined the importance of conference championship games.

It’s not about grumbling; it’s about striving for victory.

And who wouldn’t want to claim a championship?