College Football Playoff First Round Begins Dec. 19 with Tripleheader

The excitement for college football fans is reaching new heights as the first round of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) kicks off on December 19.

This highly anticipated event will feature a series of thrilling matchups broadcasted on ABC, ESPN, and TNT.

The expanded playoff format promises to deliver unforgettable moments and intense competition. It’ll showcase the best teams in the nation—can you really ask for more?

Let’s dig into the schedule, broadcasting partnerships, and what this new format means for everyone watching.

CFP First Round Schedule and Broadcast Details

The first round of the CFP starts at 8 p.m. ET on December 19, airing on both ABC and ESPN.

Then comes a tripleheader on December 20, beginning at noon. Here’s how it shakes out:

• Noon: First game broadcasted on ABC and ESPN
• 3:30 p.m.: Second game presented by TNT
• 7:30 p.m.: Third game also on TNT

All games on ESPN networks will also be available for streaming on the ESPN App.

The games on TNT and truTV will be streamed on HBO Max. This multi-network approach means fans have plenty of ways to catch the action, wherever they are—no more excuses for missing a game.

Campus Venues and Selection Day

The first-round games will be played on campus sites, adding an extra layer of excitement and home-field advantage for the participating teams.

These venues will be announced on Selection Day, December 7. Waiting to see which campuses get the nod? You’re not alone—the suspense is part of the fun.

Broadcasting Partnerships and Collaboration with the NFL

The collaboration between ESPN, TNT Sports, and the National Football League (NFL) highlights just how big college football’s gotten. According to CFP executive director Rich Clark, this partnership aims to deliver the first-round games to fans across the country in prime viewing windows.

The coordination with the NFL is no small feat. Schedules are lined up to work for both college and pro football fans, which, honestly, is a relief for anyone who tries to watch both every weekend.

ESPN’s Expanded Package

ESPN, which has had exclusive rights to the CFP since 2015, is now in the second year of its expanded package.

This package includes all four games of the CFP first round, with two games sublicensed to TNT Sports. It’s a big move that shows ESPN’s commitment to making these games accessible and keeping everyone in the loop.

Viewership Milestones and Records

Last season, the inaugural CFP first round delivered an impressive 10.6 million average viewers across ESPN networks and TNT Sports.

The quarterfinals achieved multiyear viewership highs, while the semifinals produced the most-watched Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on record, with 20.6 million viewers.

The Capital One Orange Bowl saw its second-highest viewership in nearly 20 years, drawing 17.8 million viewers.

The 2025 CFP National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame attracted 22.1 million viewers, making it the most-watched non-NFL sporting event over the past year. That showdown even peaked with 26.1 million viewers—college football’s reach is undeniable.

Looking Ahead: Future CFP Events

It was announced in April that ESPN will present each of the four playoff quarterfinals, the two semifinals, and the national championship game.

The championship is scheduled for January 19, 2026, at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium. So, if you’re already planning your watch parties, mark your calendars now.

The Importance of MegaCast

Further scheduling details, including full MegaCast information, will be announced later this year.

MegaCast gives fans different ways to watch—alternate camera angles, expert analysis, interactive features. It’s a cool way to experience the games, and honestly, it might spoil you for regular broadcasts.

Conclusion: A New Era for College Football

The 12-team College Football Playoff format is shaking things up. More teams get a shot at the national championship, and that’s a big deal for fans and players alike.

ESPN, TNT Sports, and the NFL are teaming up to bring coverage from every angle. You’ll have plenty of ways to watch, whether you prefer streaming, cable, or catching highlights later.

The countdown is on for the first round, set for December 19. It’s hard not to get excited—this playoff season could be one for the books.

Want the full scoop on schedules and broadcast details? Check out the full article on ESPN.