Must-Watch College Football Playoff Games Today: Full Schedule and Analysis
The College Football Playoff (CFP) season is finally here, and you can feel the buzz. Today, the first round of games kicks off, stretching from early afternoon right into primetime. Fans everywhere are ready for some of the most thrilling matchups of the year.
This year’s selection committee stirred up plenty of controversy, especially with Notre Dame being left out in favor of Miami. As the day ramps up, here’s what you need to know about the games, the teams, and the wild moments that might be coming our way.
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Key Matchups to Watch Today
The CFP first round brings some seriously intriguing games. There’s a lot of drama and intensity on deck. Here are the matchups you probably shouldn’t miss:
Texas A&M vs. Miami
Date: Sat., Dec. 20 at 12 p.m. on ABC/ESPN
Texas A&M had a fantastic season, going undefeated through 11 games. But then came a gut-wrenching loss to Texas at the end, which knocked them out of the SEC championship.
Now, they’ve got a shot at redemption in the playoffs, hosting Miami in one of the loudest, toughest places to play in college football. Miami didn’t play for the ACC title thanks to two losses, but they managed to edge out Notre Dame on Selection Day and snag the last playoff spot.
Both teams have tough defenses and plenty of speed. This one could be the tightest matchup of the first round.
Prediction: Texas A&M vs. Miami
Ole Miss vs. Tulane
Date: Sat., Dec. 20 at 3:30 p.m. on TNT
This is a rematch from earlier in the season, when Ole Miss rolled over Tulane 45-10. Things look a bit different now, though.
Lane Kiffin is gone, off to coach LSU, and Pete Golding steps in as the new head coach. For Ole Miss, hosting this playoff game is a huge deal—maybe the biggest sporting event the state has ever seen.
Tulane bounced back after that loss and won the American championship. Their coach, Jon Sumrall, is leaving for Florida after this one, so it’s his last shot to make a statement. There’s a lot on the line, and this rematch could get pretty interesting.
Prediction: Ole Miss vs. Tulane
Oregon vs. James Madison
Date: Sat., Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. on TNT
James Madison made history as the second Group of Five team to get CFP consideration after Virginia lost the ACC Championship. Some folks are still scratching their heads about their inclusion.
But hey, now they’ve got a shot to prove they belong, facing Oregon—a team that’s favored by three touchdowns. Oregon’s offense is stacked, especially at wide receiver, and they’ll be a tough test for James Madison.
We’ll see if the Dukes can hang at this level and quiet some of the doubters.
Prediction: Oregon vs. James Madison
Teams to Watch
Besides the big matchups, a few teams are really catching everyone’s attention. Here are some worth keeping an eye on as the CFP rolls along:
Indiana
Indiana sits at No. 1 after a remarkable season. Their balanced attack and solid defense make them a tough out for anyone.
Ohio State
Ohio State, ranked No. 2, is always a threat. They’ve got a high-powered offense and a defense that can clamp down when it matters.
Georgia
Georgia, at No. 3, is all about defense. They control the game on both sides of the ball, which makes them a real problem for opponents.
Texas Tech
Texas Tech, the No. 4 seed, doesn’t get talked about as much, but they’re dangerous. Their offense can put up points in a hurry and surprise just about anyone.
Notable Exclusions and Controversies
The CFP selection process? Always a hot topic. This year, it’s no different. Big names like Notre Dame and BYU had strong seasons but didn’t make the cut.
Notre Dame
Notre Dame was the first team out, missing the playoffs by a hair. Their exclusion in favor of Miami has plenty of people debating the committee’s timing and criteria.
BYU
BYU was next in line and also got left out, despite a pretty impressive run. Some analysts are still arguing they deserved a shot.
The College Football Playoff is shaping up to be wild this season. High-stakes games, unexpected twists—yeah, fans are in for something special.
So, whether you’re all in for your team or just love the chaos, these matchups are worth your time. Missing today’s games? Honestly, that’d be a shame.
If you want more details or just need some analysis, check out the full article here: College Football Playoff Games on the Schedule You Should Watch Today.
