Selling seats isn't just about profit. Sure, that's a big part of it. But you also want a full and loud stadium. Because that adds to the perception of relevancy for the program. That is what gets you attention. And that is what gets the visiting recruits to think that they want to attend.

You would make more money if 1 dude said he'd give you $2 million dollars to have every seat in the stadium because he wants to watch the game alone. But that isn't a game you want to take recruits to.

And if you are interested in creating and keeping fans - you want them at the games.