The power of ESPN

Many cable viewers keep their monthly subscriptions so they can watch ESPN's exclusive programming. The 10 most-watched shows in cable TV history have all been football games broadcast on ESPN.

28.3 million: Jan. 1, 2015, Sugar Bowl: Alabama vs. Ohio State

28.2 million: Jan. 1, 2015, Rose Bowl: Oregon vs. Florida State

27.3 million: Jan. 10, 2011, BCS Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn

26.4 million: Jan. 7, 2013, BCS Championship: Alabama vs. Notre Dame

25.6 million: Jan. 6, 2014, BCS Championship: Florida State vs. Auburn

24.2 million: Jan. 9, 2012, BCS Championship: Alabama vs. LSU

21.8 million: Oct. 5, 2009, NFL: Green Bay vs. Minnesota

21.7 million: Jan. 3, 2015, NFL: Arizona vs. Carolina

21.4 million: Nov. 30, 2009, NFL: New England vs. New Orleans

20.6 million: Jan. 1, 2011, Rose Bowl: TCU vs. Wisconsin

Source: Nielsen