2025 College Football Playoff: First Round Schedule, Key Matchups, TV Guide
The College Football Playoff (CFP) is back for its second year under the 12-team format. You can feel the excitement building already.
The first round of the 2025-26 CFP brings some wild matchups and dramatic storylines. From Alabama’s stunning comeback to Miami’s first-ever CFP appearance, fans are in for a show.
This post will walk you through the key games and the players to keep an eye on as the postseason kicks off.
Contents
The Road to the 2025-26 College Football Playoff
The expanded 12-team format has made the CFP more unpredictable than ever. More teams are in the hunt, and the stakes feel massive.
This year’s first-round matchups mix powerhouse programs with newcomers. It’s shaping up to be a tournament to remember, honestly.
Alabama vs. Oklahoma: A Rematch to Remember
No. 9 Alabama faced No. 8 Oklahoma in a rematch that didn’t disappoint. The Crimson Tide erased a 17-point deficit, stunning the Sooners on their home field.
That win pushed Alabama forward and showed off their resilience. You have to admire their determination.
Key Matchup: Alabama’s offense vs. Oklahoma’s defense
Wide receiver Ryan Williams was a big focus for Alabama. His season’s been up and down, but against Oklahoma’s tough defense, he really needed to step up.
Miami vs. Texas A&M: A Battle of First-Timers
No. 10 Miami and No. 7 Texas A&M both made their CFP debuts, which added a layer of intrigue. Miami grabbed the final at-large spot.
Texas A&M just missed an SEC Championship Game berth after losing to Texas in their regular-season finale. That’s got to sting a bit.
Player to Watch: Miami freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney
Malachi Toney has been electric this season, always a threat for a big play. Whether Texas A&M’s defense can contain him is a huge question.
Saturday’s Showdowns: Ole Miss and Oregon in Action
Saturday brings two more matchups: No. 6 Ole Miss hosts No. 11 Tulane, and No. 5 Oregon takes on No. 12 James Madison. Both have the potential for fireworks.
Ole Miss vs. Tulane: A Familiar Foe
Ole Miss and Tulane already met once this season, with the Rebels winning 45-10. This time, though, the stakes are way higher.
Tulane will be hungry for payback. That kind of motivation can change everything.
Storyline to Follow: Lane Kiffin’s departure
There’s been a lot of talk about Lane Kiffin leaving Ole Miss for LSU. How the Rebels handle that shake-up could make or break their game against Tulane.
Oregon vs. James Madison: The Final First-Round Game
No. 5 Oregon hosts No. 12 James Madison to close out the first round. Oregon’s had a solid year, but injuries—especially at wide receiver—have been a problem.
Injury Watch: Evan Stewart
Evan Stewart hasn’t played this season because of a knee injury, but he was seen practicing recently. Nobody’s sure if he’ll play, but if he does, Oregon’s offense could get a serious lift.
What to Expect in the Quarterfinals
Winners from these games move on to face the top four seeds in the quarterfinals. No. 2 Ohio State is waiting for whoever wins Miami vs. Texas A&M.
No. 3 Georgia will take on the winner of Ole Miss vs. Tulane. No. 4 Texas Tech faces the Oregon vs. James Madison winner. Alabama’s next opponent is still up in the air.
Ohio State: A Formidable Foe
Ohio State’s been dominant all season. Whether it’s Miami or Texas A&M, the Buckeyes are going to be a tough out.
Their offense is stacked, and their defense doesn’t give much away. Honestly, they’re probably the favorite to move on.
Georgia: Defending Their Title
Georgia comes in as the defending national champs, so everyone’s gunning for them. The Bulldogs want another shot at the semifinals.
Whoever comes out of Ole Miss vs. Tulane will have their hands full, that’s for sure.
Conclusion
The first round of the 2025-26 College Football Playoff is shaping up to be a wild ride. Alabama’s comeback? Absolutely electric.
With Miami and Texas A&M making their playoff debuts, there’s a buzz in the air that’s hard to ignore. Fans are already talking, and honestly, who can blame them?
If you want the nitty-gritty on matchups and timing, here’s the College Football Playoff First-Round Watch Guide 2025. Dive in and see what’s coming up next.
