From Dow Jones & Company:

The University of Michigan and University of Washington face off during the College Football Playoff National Championship game, shifting attention to public universities. Public colleges often face intense political scrutiny, as seen in examples from Florida and Wisconsin. Public institutions are also at the forefront of discussions surrounding free speech and diversity on campus. With public colleges enrolling 11.9 million undergraduates in America, importance is placed on issues such as the value of a college degree and student economic mobility. Public flagship universities have been growing in strength due to aggressive enrollment strategies and larger opportunities offered.



Read more: State schools like Michigan and Washington dominate more than the football field