The University of Maine's football team received $635,000 to play a game against the University of Oklahoma.
Compensation for the Matchup
This substantial payment from Oklahoma to Maine's Black Bears is designed to offset the considerable costs associated with traveling a large collegiate athletic contingent. For Maine, this includes transporting approximately 120 people from Orono, Maine, all the way to Norman, Oklahoma, covering expenses like airfare, accommodation, meals, and other logistical needs.
The Dynamics of College Football "Buy Games"
Such financial arrangements are common in college football, often referred to as "buy games" or "guarantee games." In these matchups, a larger, typically more financially robust program (often from a Power Five conference like the SEC or Big 12) pays a smaller program (frequently from a Football Championship Subdivision, or FCS, conference) a set sum to play a game, usually at the larger school's home stadium.
- Financial Incentive: For the visiting team, these games provide a crucial revenue stream that can significantly impact their athletic budget, offering a "salve" for the challenging matchup.
- Scheduling Opportunity: For the host team, it offers a way to fill out their non-conference schedule, often against an opponent that is less likely to pose a significant upset threat, allowing them to fine-tune their strategies and give playing time to various roster members.
- Exposure: While often challenging on the scoreboard, these games can offer valuable exposure for the visiting team's players and program on a national stage.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $635,000 |
| Recipient Team | University of Maine Black Bears |
| Payer Team | University of Oklahoma Sooners |
| Purpose of Payment | Cover travel, logistics, and provide a financial guarantee for participation. |
| Context | Common in collegiate "buy games" or "guarantee games." |
For more details on the context of this game, you can refer to the Press Herald article.
