California has the 5th largest economy in the world. California has almost 40 million people. Michigan has two Big 10 schools and it's population is less than 10 million. Illinois has two schools and it's population is 12 million. Iowa has one school and it's population is 3 million. Let me know if you want me to do the math for you...it appears you may be challenged there.
It's about TV markets and the tradition of the schools academically and athletically....and the Northern California market is the 6th largest TV market in the US. It's behind New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Dallas. It's just ahead of the Washington, DC market at number 7.
Guess what...when you lock up 6 of the 7 largest TV markets and you are negotiating a new deal with the networks...it's a really really strong negotiating position.
Please tell me how idiotic it is again.