Wed Dec 31 15:50:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

College Football Fans Gear Up for Action-Packed New Year’s Eve Bowl Schedule

College football enthusiasts can ring in the New Year with a full day of bowl games on December 31, 2025, highlighted by the first College Football Playoff quarterfinal. The day features a diverse slate of matchups, including traditional rivalry games and intriguing clashes between conference champions and rising contenders.

Sunshine State Doubleheader

The day begins with a traditional SEC vs. Big Ten showdown in Tampa, Florida, at noon ET on ESPN. Vanderbilt, led by Heisman runner-up QB Diego Pavia, will face Iowa, known for its stout defense. While Pavia is set to play, the Commodores will be without key target Eli Stowers. Iowa’s QB Mark Gronowski, a dual-threat playmaker, will test Vanderbilt’s defensive resolve.

The afternoon continues in Orlando, Florida, at 3 p.m. ET on ABC, with Michigan taking on Texas. Both teams will be missing key defenders. It’s unclear how Michigan will respond amidst changes to the coaching staff, while Texas hopes to build a foundation for next season.

Underdog Story in El Paso

At 2 p.m. ET, CBS will broadcast a compelling contest from El Paso, Texas, where ACC champion Duke faces Arizona State. The Sun Devils, however, will be significantly shorthanded due to injuries and transfer decisions. Duke, with QB Darian Mensah expected to return next season, will look to capitalize on ASU’s depleted roster.

Utes’ Debut in Final Non-Playoff Game

ESPN will broadcast the final non-playoff game at 3:30 p.m. ET as Utah faces Nebraska. The game marks the head coaching debut of Morgan Scalley for Utah, while Nebraska struggles with injuries.

Playoff Quarterfinal Kicks Off

The day culminates with a highly anticipated College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup between defending champion Ohio State and Miami at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, broadcast from Arlington, Texas. Ohio State, coming off a first-round bye, will face a Miami team that earned its spot with a first-round victory at Texas A&M. Miami QB Carson Beck will look to RB Mark Fletcher and his blockers, while Ohio State QB Julian Sayin will look to stretch the field with Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate.

Read More