Partnership Pairs The Best in the Game® Freight Services with Iconic College Athletics Teams
DALLAS, Texas (Aug. 27, 2025) – Old Dominion Freight Line (OD), a premium less-than-truckload (LTL) freight carrier, has announced the extension of its partnership with Learfield, the leading media and technology company dedicated to enhancing college athletics, as the college football season approaches.
With one of the most comprehensive partnership portfolios in college athletics, Old Dominion proudly sponsors powerhouse universities across the nation and maintains a prominent sponsorship of ESPN College GameDay. Under the Learfield umbrella, OD serves as the Official Freight Carrier for distinguished athletic programs at institutions including Alabama, Connecticut, Duke, Florida, Georgia, Gonzaga, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kansas State, Marquette, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, North Carolina State, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, Purdue, South Carolina, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M, TCU, Wake Forest, Washington, and Wisconsin.
As part of this renewed commitment, Old Dominion will unveil a new broadcast commercial featuring the mascots from 15 Learfield partner schools, continuing its tradition of delivering “The Best in the Game®” quality service in both LTL shipping and college sports. Created by GALE, the national campaign features legendary sports commentator Rece Davis, iconic mascots, such as Hairy Dawg, Rameses, and Big Al, and OD team members as they work side by side through every stage of the shipping process.
“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Learfield and the extensive roster of athletics programs they represent,” said Dick Podiak, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Old Dominion. “Learfield’s strong portfolio of multi-media rights of top schools and their dedicated team makes working a large number of schools under their umbrella simpler than working with schools individually from contracting, managing assets, and day to day management. Working with Learfield, we can tap into the unique level of passion in college sports to engage with fans and partners nationwide, allowing us to share in the excitement of their favorite college teams.”
Old Dominion’s multi-year partnership with these universities continues their commitment to excellence, aligning with programs recognized for their dedication to both athletic and academic success. These collaborative sponsorships will showcase team IP, including mascots, marks, and logos in the national campaign, while also delivering exclusive hospitality events, behind-the-scenes access for clients, and high-impact signage across football and basketball.
“Old Dominion sets the standard in their industry and their Best in the Game® commitment makes them a natural fit alongside our school partners. This comprehensive program complements their national presence, facilitating connections with partners from coast to coast,” said Shawn Hegan, Executive Vice President of Global Partnerships at Learfield.
As a leader in LTL freight shipments throughout North America, Old Dominion is recognized for its timely and damage-free deliveries. Consistently ranked as the #1 National LTL Carrier for Quality by Mastio & Company for 15 consecutive years, OD is hailed as one of the best-run trucking companies in the industry. For more information about Old Dominion Freight Line, visit www.odfl.com.
About Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is one of the largest North American less-than-truckload (“LTL”) motor carriers and provides regional, inter-regional and national LTL services through a single integrated, union-free organization. Our service offerings, which include expedited transportation, are provided through an expansive network of service centers located throughout the continental United States. The Company also maintains strategic alliances with other carriers to provide LTL services throughout North America. In addition to its core LTL services, the Company offers a range of value-added services including container drayage, truckload brokerage and supply chain consulting.
About Learfield
Learfield is the media and technology company that powers college athletics. Through its digital and physical platforms, Learfield owns and leverages a deep data set and relationships in the industry to drive revenue, growth, brand awareness, and fan engagement for brands, sports, and entertainment properties. With ties to over 1,200 collegiate institutions and over 12,000 local and national brand partners, Learfield’s presence in college sports and live events delivers influence and maximizes reach to target audiences. With solutions for a 365-day, 24/7 fan experience, Learfield enables schools and brands to connect with fans through licensed merchandise, game ticketing, donor identification for athletic programs, exclusive custom content, innovative marketing initiatives, NIL solutions, and advanced digital platforms. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield Directors’ Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.
Contacts:
Amanda Tadlock
Manager, Communications
Old Dominion Freight Line
Amanda.tadlock@odfl.com
336.822.5549