College Football Bowl and Playoff Game Schedule: Must-Watch Guide
As the college football season barrels toward its wild finale, fans are buzzing about the looming bowl games and playoff matchups. This year’s lineup? It’s loaded—top-ranked teams, heated rivalries, and the kind of drama that keeps people glued to their screens.
From the Myrtle Beach Bowl to the opening round of the College Football Playoff, here’s a rundown of the games you’ll want to catch. There’s a lot happening, and honestly, it’s tough to know where to start.
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Exciting Bowl Games to Kick Off the Day
The day starts early with the Myrtle Beach Bowl in Conway, South Carolina. Kennesaw State faces Western Michigan at 11 a.m. on ESPN.
This one’s a bit of a tone-setter. If you’re up, why not tune in?
Next up is the Gasparilla Bowl in Tampa, Florida. Memphis and N.C. State go head-to-head at 2:30 p.m., also on ESPN.
Both teams want to finish strong, so expect a real fight here.
College Football Playoff First Round
The College Football Playoff First Round is the main event today. Four matchups, each one with huge stakes, will decide who moves on.
These games are split across networks, so flipping channels might be necessary.
No. 9 Alabama at No. 8 Oklahoma
First up in the CFP: No. 9 Alabama visits No. 8 Oklahoma. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. on ABC/ESPN.
Two legendary programs, both with something to prove. This should be a brawl.
No. 10 Miami (Fla.) at No. 7 Texas A&M
Earlier in the day, at noon, No. 10 Miami (Fla.) takes on No. 7 Texas A&M. You can catch it on ABC/ESPN.
Hard to say who’s got the edge here, but it feels like it’ll be close.
No. 11 Tulane at No. 6 Ole Miss
At 3:30 p.m., No. 11 Tulane squares off against No. 6 Ole Miss. This one’s on TNT/HBO Max.
Both teams have been fun to watch this season, so this matchup could get wild.
No. 12 James Madison at No. 5 Oregon
Finally, No. 12 James Madison faces No. 5 Oregon at 7:30 p.m. on TNT/HBO Max.
It’s a big test for both squads, and honestly, it’s tough to predict how it’ll play out.
FCS Playoff Semifinals
Don’t overlook the FCS playoff semifinals. There are two games, and each one could feature tomorrow’s household names.
Montana vs. Montana State
First up, Montana and Montana State renew their rivalry at 4 p.m. on ABC.
These teams just don’t like each other, and it always shows on the field.
Illinois State vs. Villanova
Later, at 7:30 p.m., Illinois State meets Villanova on ESPN2.
It’s a great chance to see some underrated players shine.
Additional Bowl Games to Watch
There’s even more action outside the playoff spotlight. A handful of other bowl games promise their own brand of chaos and excitement.
Washington State vs. Utah State
The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl in Boise, Idaho, lines up Washington State against Utah State at 2 p.m. on ESPN.
This one’s always a little quirky—maybe it’s the setting, maybe it’s the potatoes.
Toledo vs. Louisville
Also at 2 p.m., the Boca Raton Bowl in Florida features Toledo and Louisville, airing on ESPN.
Both teams have had their ups and downs, so who knows what’ll happen.
Western Kentucky vs. Southern Miss
The New Orleans Bowl brings Western Kentucky and Southern Miss together at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN.
New Orleans as a backdrop? That’s always a plus.
UNLV vs. Ohio U.
At 9 p.m., the Frisco Bowl in Texas features UNLV versus Ohio U. on ESPN.
It’s a late one, but if you’re still awake, it’s worth a look.
California vs. Hawai’i
The last stop of the day? That’s the Hawai’i Bowl in Honolulu. California is set to face Hawai’i at 8 p.m. on ESPN.
This game’s got a postcard-worthy backdrop and, honestly, it’s a fun way to wrap up a wild day of college football.
Curious about the full lineup or want more details? Check out the source.
