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Adam Rittenberg
The 12-team Faculty Soccer Playoff is now not new, however there are some totally different components to think about when starting the intrepid activity of predicting each postseason sport the day the pairings are introduced.
For starters, there are extra justifiably aggrieved groups at being not noted of the 12-team CFP. Amongst them: Vanderbilt (10-2), BYU (11-2), Texas (9-3) and, in fact, Notre Dame (10-2), which had essentially the most bitter Sunday following the alternatives.
The annual teaching carousel all the time impacts the postseason, however this yr has seen strikes which have impacted the CFP in contrast to ever earlier than. Ole Miss will play with out former coach Lane Kiffin, whereas new coach Pete Golding will make his debut on the helm within the greatest sport in staff historical past. Jon Sumrall, in the meantime, will lead Tulane into its first CFP earlier than focusing absolutely on his new job at Florida. James Madison is a shock inclusion to the CFP, and coach Bob Chesney will lead the Dukes earlier than departing for UCLA.
A number of CFP groups even have coordinators shifting on to head-coaching roles, together with Oregon‘s Will Stein (Kentucky) and Tosh Lupoi (Cal), and Ohio State‘s Brian Hartline (South Florida). There are additionally the usual uncertainties round bowl video games, together with NFL draft declarations and switch bulletins, which have not kicked into excessive gear but because the portal does not open till January. All this makes predicting the bowl/CFP outcomes proper after the pairings are revealed type of insane, but in addition enjoyable!
Do not mortgage your home on these, but when they hit, I’ll settle for any and all items and congratulations. With out additional ado, from Bowl Predictions HQ in downtown Indianapolis, listed below are the breakdowns and picks for each faculty soccer postseason sport.
Prepared, set, bowl!
All occasions ET.
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CFP games | Title game | Bowl schedule
Friday, Dec. 19
CFP first-round sport
Alabama Crimson Tide at Oklahoma Sooners
Gaylord Household – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (Norman, Oklahoma)
8 p.m., ABC, ESPN
The CFP begins with a rematch of a sport performed barely a month earlier at Bryant-Denny Stadium. I used to be there and got here away impressed by Oklahoma’s defensive expertise and layered scheme, which prevailed in a 23-21 victory. Alabama was clearly worn down towards the tip of the season, not trying spectacular in its victory at Auburn, and being held scoreless for greater than 47 minutes towards Georgia within the SEC championship. However groups that squeak into the CFP can achieve some momentum from being granted a second life, and regardless of the head-to-head final result in Tuscaloosa, Alabama nonetheless outgained Oklahoma 406-212 and had 11 extra first downs. Quarterback Ty Simpson has an opportunity to reset and reclaim his accuracy, and operating again Jam Miller will probably return for the CFP. Coach Kalen DeBoer and the Tide are not any strangers to this stage, and so they’ll discover a method to win an in depth one in Norman.
Prediction: Alabama 20, Oklahoma 17
Rating: Alabama 34, Oklahoma 24
Saturday, Dec. 20
CFP first-round sport
Miami Hurricanes at Texas A&M Aggies
Kyle Subject (Faculty Station, Texas)
Midday, ABC, ESPN
The Hurricanes can exhale after making it into the sphere over Notre Dame, which they beat within the season opener. Miami is without doubt one of the nation’s most gifted groups. Now the Hurricanes should draw from making their first CFP look towards one other CFP newcomer in Texas A&M, which is coming off its first lack of the season. Kyle Subject is all the time electrical and may assist Texas A&M in its first CFP sport, however Miami ought to profit from the sooner begin time, quite than having to cope with the twelfth Man at evening. Each groups have super expertise at huge receiver and playmaking quarterbacks in Marcel Reed (Texas A&M) and Carson Beck (Miami). However Miami’s improved protection below coordinator Corey Hetherman ought to present the Canes an edge on this sport, particularly after Reed has thrown six interceptions in his previous 5 video games. The Hurricanes power a late takeaway and get out of Aggieland with a win.
Prediction: Miami 31, Texas A&M 28
Rating: Miami 10, Texas A&M 3
CFP first-round sport
Tulane Green Wave at Ole Miss Rebels
Vaught Hemingway Stadium (Oxford, Mississippi)
3:30 p.m., TNT
A primary-round rematch of a sport Ole Miss received by 35 factors again on Sept. 20 is lower than very best, however the modified circumstances round each packages add some intrigue. How will Ole Miss carry out with out Kiffin on the controls? Golding is a well-liked substitute, however he has by no means led this staff and shall be dealing with a future SEC competitor in Sumrall. Tulane defended North Texas extraordinarily properly within the American Convention championship sport, forcing 5 turnovers and holding the Imply Inexperienced to seven factors till the ultimate minute of the third quarter. Golding’s protection gave Tulane issues within the first matchup, as quarterback Jake Retzlaff accomplished solely 5 of 17 passes for 56 yards earlier than being benched. Tulane struggled to defend Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who had 307 passing yards, 2 touchdowns and 112 speeding yards within the first assembly. Sumrall’s staff will play a bit higher this time, however Ole Miss overcomes a gradual begin to draw back behind Chambliss and operating again Kewan Lacy.
Prediction: Ole Miss 34, Tulane 16
Rating: Ole Miss 41, Tulane 10
CFP first-round sport
James Madison Dukes at Oregon Ducks
Autzen Stadium (Eugene, Oregon)
A yr in the past, the Geese went 13-0 and acquired a really robust CFP draw, which resulted in a quick and humbling exit within the Rose Bowl. Oregon shall be enjoying earlier on this yr’s playoff, and coach Dan Lanning’s staff is closely favored to advance towards James Madison, the Solar Belt champion. Though the Dukes are well-coached and received their closing 11 video games, they did so in a weaker-than-normal Solar Belt and misplaced at Louisville by 14 factors, whereas additionally surviving a house scare towards Washington State. Oregon wants no motivation after dropping large to Ohio State in final season’s CFP. The Geese ought to lastly be wholesome once more at huge receiver, and quarterback Dante Moore performed very properly down the stretch. How Stein and Lupoi perform of their twin roles is price watching, however Oregon should not have an excessive amount of hassle with JMU at thunderous Autzen Stadium.
Prediction: Oregon 38, James Madison 13
Rating: Oregon 51, James Madison 34
Wednesday, Dec. 31
CFP Quarterfinal on the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Basic
Miami Hurricanes vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
AT&T Stadium (Arlington, Texas)
7:30 p.m., ESPN
The quarters kick off with an excellent one, as Ohio State returns to the constructing the place it received a CFP semifinal matchup in final season’s nationwide title run. Regardless of the frustration of the Huge Ten championship sport, coach Ryan Day and his staff can draw upon their playoff success from final season and start the search to repeat. A key matchup shall be Ohio State’s offensive line (which allowed 5 sacks to Indiana after surrendering six throughout the whole common season) dealing with a gifted Miami defensive entrance led by Akheem Mesidor and Rueben Bain Jr. The Buckeyes might want to run the ball successfully, particularly in short-yardage conditions. However they’ll additionally lean on their protection to fluster Beck and the Hurricanes a bit. Count on large video games from Arvell Reese, Caden Curry and others as Ohio State strikes on.
Prediction: Ohio State 27, Miami 20
Thursday, Jan. 1
CFP Quarterfinal on the Capital One Orange Bowl
Oregon Ducks vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Onerous Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, Florida)
Midday, ESPN
The very best groups cash should purchase? Let’s freaking go. No two packages appear to get extra flak for what they put money into their rosters than Oregon (hi there, Phil Knight) and Texas Tech (howdy, Cody Campbell). However the Crimson Raiders and Geese have earned their method to this stage and may ship an unimaginable matchup in South Florida. Oregon has the quarterback edge with Dante Moore, who ought to have extra huge receivers at his disposal as he faces a top-five protection in Texas Tech. The matchup of Oregon’s offensive line and Texas Tech’s defensive entrance must be epic. Regardless that Oregon has CFP expertise, Texas Tech ought to be capable to experience Shiel Wooden’s protection and simply sufficient offense to get the W.
Prediction: Texas Tech 23, Oregon 20
CFP Quarterfinal on the Rose Bowl Recreation offered by Prudential
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Indiana Hoosiers
Rose Bowl (Pasadena, California)
4 p.m., ESPN
Indiana had barely capped off essentially the most magical evening in latest program historical past earlier than coach Curt Cignetti turned his consideration towards getting ready (and humbling) his staff earlier than the CFP. The Hoosiers are AP No. 1 for the primary time and using excessive from their first outright Huge Ten title since 1945. However going undefeated did not matter for Oregon in final season’s Rose Bowl, and Indiana should lock in for an opponent that’s used to the largest of levels. Sure, it is Alabama, however the Hoosiers have the higher quarterback in Fernando Mendoza, a significantly better operating sport with a number of choices and a protection that may match up with the Tide, particularly after the Ohio State win. Alabama will want some kind of offensive stability to win this one, and I do not see it occurring towards coordinator Bryant Haines’ ferocious protection. Indiana will get two landing passes from Mendoza and advances.
Prediction: Indiana 24, Alabama 16
CFP Quarterfinal on the Allstate Sugar Bowl
Ole Miss Rebels vs. Georgia Bulldogs
Caesars Superdome (New Orleans)
8 p.m., ESPN
The quarterfinals finish with an SEC rematch within the Huge Simple, as coach Kirby Good tries to keep away from a repeat of final season’s Sugar Bowl, when Georgia had simply 10 factors and 62 speeding yards in a loss to Notre Dame. Anybody assume Kiffin will make the journey over from Baton Rouge to look at his former staff? Quarterback Gunner Stockton was making his first profession begin rather than the injured Beck and must be way more comfy this time round. Stockton had his finest sport of the season Oct. 18 towards Ole Miss, finishing 26 of 31 passes for 289 yards with 4 touchdowns and no interceptions in a 43-35 win. Georgia is also enjoying a few of its finest soccer collectively through the stretch run, particularly a protection that struggled at occasions towards Chambliss within the first assembly. I like this Ole Miss staff, however I do not see Georgia exiting the playoff so quickly once more.
Prediction: Georgia 31, Ole Miss 21
Thursday, Jan. 8
CFP Semifinal on the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl
Georgia Bulldogs vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
State Farm Stadium (Glendale, Arizona)
7:30 p.m., ESPN
The very best matchup of the whole CFP might come within the desert, that includes groups which have mixed for 3 of the previous 4 nationwide championships. Ohio State and Georgia delivered a traditional within the 2022 nationwide semifinal, a sport the Buckeyes largely managed earlier than falling 42-41 in Atlanta. Georgia has an expertise edge at quarterback with Stockton over redshirt freshman Julian Sayin, however Ohio State’s huge receivers and total defensive employees energy might swing the sport its manner. I am not anticipating many factors however Ohio State finds a couple of extra, as kicker Jayden Fielding redeems himself after the Huge Ten title sport miss.
Prediction: Ohio State 19, Georgia 16
Friday, Jan. 9
CFP Semifinal on the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl
Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Indiana Hoosiers
Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)
7:30 p.m., ESPN
Two of the nation’s finest defenses will go at it in Atlanta with a spot within the nationwide championship sport on the road. The sport additionally pits Mendoza, the FBS chief in landing passes, towards arguably the nation’s high defender in Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez. Every scoring probability shall be essential, as each defenses rank within the high 5 nationally in pink zone touchdowns allowed. I might actually see this going both manner, however Indiana has a reasonably substantial benefit at quarterback with Mendoza, and an underrated run sport to supply stability. The Hoosiers transfer on to the natty.
Prediction: Indiana 20, Texas Tech 17
Monday, Jan. 19
CFP Nationwide Championship
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Indiana Hoosiers
Onerous Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, Florida)
7:45 p.m., ESPN
Defend your eyes, Paul Finebaum and Peter Burns, it is an all-Huge Ten nationwide title sport, that includes a rematch of the convention championship in Indianapolis. Mendoza shall be enjoying in his hometown with an opportunity to cap a dream season on so many fronts for himself, his household and his Hoosiers staff. However Ohio State will spoil the occasion in a sport that shall be a barely higher-scoring model of what we noticed at Lucas Oil Stadium. Jeremiah Smith, who grew up close to Onerous Rock Stadium, reveals why he is the very best participant within the sport with two second-half landing catches, as Ohio State repeats as nationwide champion for the primary time.
Prediction: Ohio State 24, Indiana 20
Full bowl season schedule
Saturday, Dec. 13
Cricket Celebration Bowl
South Carolina State Bulldogs vs. Prairie View A&M Panthers
Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)
The Bulldogs return to the Celebration Bowl for the second straight season and for the third time in 5 years, whereas Prairie View A&M makes its debut within the sport below gifted first-year coach Tremaine Jackson. South Carolina State quarterback William Atkins IV, who had 16 touchdowns and solely 4 interceptions this season, faces a Prairie View A&M protection that allowed fewer than 10 factors in 5 of its closing seven video games. The Panthers are coming in scorching and win an in depth one behind the protection and dynamic huge receiver Jyzaiah Rockwell, who catches two landing passes.
Prediction: Prairie View A&M 27, South Carolina State 21
Rating: South Carolina State 40, Prairie View A&M 38
Bucked Up LA Bowl
Boise State Broncos vs. Washington Huskies
SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, California)
The Broncos did not return to the Faculty Soccer Playoff, however they nonetheless discovered a method to win the Mountain West for the third consecutive season. Two years in the past, I picked Boise State on this sport however UCLA took down the Broncos although coach Chip Kelly had one foot out the door. Washington is a younger, gifted and considerably confounding staff, however I just like the Huskies to make use of the bowl as a springboard towards 2026. Quarterback Demond Williams Jr. connects for 2 second-half landing passes as Washington pulls away late.
Prediction: Washington 37, Boise State 27
Rating: Washington 38, Boise State 10
Tuesday, Dec. 16
IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl
Troy Trojans vs. Jacksonville State Gamecocks
Cramton Bowl (Montgomery, Alabama)
The runners-up from the Convention USA (Jacksonville State) and Solar Belt (Troy) championship video games meet of their house state for what must be a well-attended and enjoyable surroundings in Montgomery. Troy held a second-half lead at Clemson and a very nice begin to Solar Belt play, however its offense struggled to attain late, together with within the convention championship. Jacksonville State has been a bit extra constant and can experience operating again Cam Cook, the MVP of C-USA with 1,659 speeding yards and 16 touchdowns, to a victory.
Prediction: Jacksonville State 24, Troy 20
Rating: Jacksonville State 17, Troy 13
Wednesday, Dec. 17
StaffDNA Remedy Bowl
Old Dominion Monarchs vs. South Florida Bulls
Tenting World Stadium (Orlando, Florida)
Each groups had very robust seasons, taking down Energy 4 opponents in Florida (South Florida) and Virginia Tech (Outdated Dominion). Each are additionally in some extent of flux. USF coach Alex Golesh left for Auburn and will not be teaching the bowl sport. Outdated Dominion standout quarterback Colton Joseph, a dynamic twin menace, is about to enter the switch portal and will not play within the bowl. South Florida has the expertise edge right here after spending an excellent chunk of the season within the AP High 25. Each defenses are enjoying very properly, as Outdated Dominion allowed a complete of 26 factors in its closing 4 video games. I am going with South Florida in a considerably lower-scoring sport.
Prediction: South Florida 24, Outdated Dominion 17
Rating: Outdated Dominion 24, South Florida 10
68 Ventures Bowl
Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns vs. Delaware Blue Hens
Hancock Whitney Stadium (Cell, Alabama)
The sport location actually favors Louisiana, which makes its eighth consecutive bowl look and thirteenth since 2011, however is simply 1-3 below coach Michael Desormeaux. Delaware, in the meantime, goes bowling in its first season as an FBS member. The Blue Hens have notable wins towards UConn and Louisiana Tech however had been fairly uneven this season, dropping to Sam Houston on Nov. 15. The Ragin’ Cajuns received their closing 4 video games to get bowl-eligible, all by single digits, and can discover a manner in one other tight one behind a balanced speeding assault.
Prediction: Louisiana 28, Delaware 24
Rating: Delaware 20, Louisiana 13
Thursday, Dec. 18
Xbox Bowl
Arkansas State Red Wolves vs. Missouri State Bears
Ford Middle at The Star (Frisco, Texas)
Coach Butch Jones leads Arkansas State into its third consecutive bowl sport, and is 5-1 in his previous six bowls. Missouri State, in the meantime, reached the postseason in its first yr as an FBS member below promising coach Ryan Beard. Count on some factors on this one, as the 2 defenses rank a hundred and fifth (Arkansas State) and 109th (Missouri State) in SP+. Each groups have performed quite a lot of one-score video games, however Missouri State’s passing sport would be the distinction. Senior quarterback Jacob Clark has been very strong, and the Bears have 5 gamers with greater than 420 receiving yards.
Prediction: Missouri State 34, Arkansas State 30
Rating: Arkansas State 34, Missouri State 28
Friday, Dec. 19
Myrtle Seashore Bowl
Kennesaw State Owls vs. Western Michigan Broncos
Brooks Stadium (Conway, South Carolina)
Midday, ESPN
One of many high early bowl matchups options the Convention USA champ (Kennesaw State) and the MAC champ (Western Michigan), in addition to two promising coaches to know in Jerry Mack and Lance Taylor. The very best unit on the sphere is Western Michigan’s protection, as first-year coordinator Chris O’Leary has overseen a gaggle that ranks 14th nationally in factors allowed and fifteenth in yards allowed. Kennesaw State has been actually good in shut video games and has a playmaker in quarterback Amari Odom, however WMU’s protection will carry the day.
Prediction: Western Michigan 28, Kennesaw State 20
Rating: Western Michigan 41, Kennesaw State 6
Union Residence Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl
Memphis Tigers vs. NC State Wolfpack
Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, Florida)
3:30 p.m., ESPN
The best way these groups ended their common seasons could not have been extra totally different. Memphis dropped its closing three video games and 4 of its closing six after getting into the AP High 25 following a 6-0 begin. Then, the Tigers misplaced coach Ryan Silverfield and others to Arkansas. NC State had a troublesome midseason stretch however received three of its closing 4 video games, together with an upset of Georgia Tech. The Wolfpack have not received a bowl sport since 2017 (Solar) and should not lack motivation on this one. Count on an enormous efficiency from quarterback CJ Bailey and the NC State offense.
Prediction: NC State 38, Memphis 27
Rating: NC State 31, Memphis 7
Monday, Dec. 22
Well-known Idaho Potato Bowl
Washington State Cougars vs. Utah State Aggies
Albertsons Stadium (Boise, Idaho)
2 p.m., ESPN
The Cougars are the higher staff, as they put a scare into two CFP contributors, Ole Miss and James Madison, and a CFP hopeful in Virginia, dropping the three highway video games by a complete of eight factors. However Washington State final week was rocked by the departure of coach Jimmy Rogers to Iowa State after just one yr on the Palouse. The Cougars had been in the same state of affairs final yr after coach Jake Dickert’s departure and misplaced the Vacation Bowl. Utah State had a pleasant highway win towards Fresno State, and performed higher defensively down the stretch. However I do not count on the Cougars to splinter. They end robust.
Prediction: Washington State 26, Utah State 20
Rating: Washington State 34, Utah State 21
Tuesday, Dec. 23
Bush’s Boca Raton Bowl
Toledo Rockets vs. Louisville Cardinals
Flagler Credit score Union Stadium (Boca Raton, Florida)
2 p.m., ESPN
Louisville’s final journey to South Florida introduced its finest second of the season, a 24-21 win towards then-No. 2 Miami that put the Cardinals within the combine for the ACC title and a CFP spot. These hopes shortly pale after a three-game ACC dropping streak, however Louisville crushed rival Kentucky 41-0 within the regular-season finale, and might nonetheless end with its third consecutive season of 9 or extra wins below coach Jeff Brohm. Toledo, in the meantime, misplaced longtime coach Jason Candle to UConn and defensive coordinator Vince Kehres to Syracuse. The Rockets’ path to success is thru their protection, which ranks fourth nationally in factors allowed (12.2 ppg). However Louisville must be engaged sufficient to complete issues with a win.
Prediction: Louisville 27, Toledo 16
Rating: Louisville 27, Toledo 22
New Orleans Bowl
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. Southern Miss Golden Eagles
Caesars Superdome (New Orleans)
5:30 p.m., ESPN
The excellent news for Southern Miss is it returns to the postseason for the primary time since 2022 after bettering from 1-11 final yr to seven wins this fall. The unhealthy information: Coach Charles Huff is headed for Memphis after his lone season in Hattiesburg, creating some uncertainty getting into this sport. Western Kentucky has regular management with Tyson Helton, who’s 4-2 in bowls and has received eight or extra video games in every of the previous 5 seasons. The Hilltoppers have been a bit erratic on offense however can lean on their protection on this one.
Prediction: Western Kentucky 31, Southern Miss 21
Rating: Western Kentucky 27, Southern Miss 16
Scooter’s Espresso Frisco Bowl
Ford Middle at The Star (Frisco, Texas)
9 p.m., ESPN
Regardless of falling brief within the Mountain West championship sport, UNLV can cap a robust first season below coach Dan Mullen with its eleventh win, matching final yr’s Rebels and the 1984 squad for essentially the most in staff historical past. Ohio additionally had a strong season at 8-4, however the staff was rocked by coach Brian Smith being positioned on depart Dec. 1 with no particulars supplied. The quarterback matchup of UNLV’s Anthony Colandrea and Ohio’s Parker Navarro must be enjoyable, however given the uncertainty round Ohio, the Rebels get the win.
Prediction: UNLV 33, Ohio 24
Wednesday, Dec. 24
Sheraton Hawai’i Bowl
California Golden Bears vs. Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors
Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complicated (Honolulu)
8 p.m., ESPN
What a enjoyable matchup on the island, as former Hawai’i coach Nick Rolovich, main Cal on an interim foundation, faces his former staff, led by record-setting Hawai’i quarterback Timmy Chang, who has performed an impressive job this season. It is also a homecoming for Cal standout freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, an Ewa Seashore native who faces a Hawai’i protection that allowed a complete of 13 factors in its closing two regular-season wins (each at house). Will the Rainbow Warriors open the season with a win towards Stanford and shut with a win over Cal? They may, because of a last-minute subject purpose from the “Tokyo Toe,” Kansei Matsuzawa.
Prediction: Hawai’i 30, Cal 28
Friday, Dec. 26
GameAbove Sports activities Bowl
Central Michigan Chippewas vs. Northwestern Wildcats
Ford Subject (Detroit)
1 p.m., ESPN
Some Huge Ten groups would not stand up for a post-Christmas bowl go to to Detroit and a MAC opponent, however not Northwestern. The Wildcats had been elated to get bowl-eligible with a dramatic win over Minnesota at Wrigley Subject, and have carried out properly within the postseason, successful 5 consecutive bowls, together with the 2023 Las Vegas Bowl below coach David Braun. Central Michigan returns to the postseason for the primary time since 2021 and may have the gang edge at Ford Subject. However the Chippewas actually struggled towards Energy 4 opponents Pitt (45-17) and Michigan (63-3), and Northwestern went by a a lot more durable schedule.
Prediction: Northwestern 28, Central Michigan 14
Fee Bowl
New Mexico Lobos vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers
Chase Subject (Phoenix)
4:30 p.m., ESPN
In the case of outsized teaching personalities, few bowl matchups will ship higher than Jason Eck (New Mexico) and P.J. Fleck (Minnesota). Eck, a former Wisconsin lineman who’s acquainted with Minnesota from his enjoying days, received Mountain West Coach of the 12 months honors in his debut season with New Mexico, which tied for first within the league and went 6-0 at house for the primary time since 1934. The Lobos have not performed in a bowl outdoors their house state since 2004, however shall be well-represented in Phoenix. My lean is New Mexico, however Fleck is superb in bowls, going 6-0 at Minnesota with a Fee Bowl victory in 2021. Powerful name right here, however I am using with the Lobos, who win their tenth sport for the primary time since 1982.
Prediction: New Mexico 24, Minnesota 20
SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
Florida International Panthers vs. UTSA Roadrunners
Gerald J. Ford Stadium (Dallas)
8 p.m., ESPN
The vibes actually appear higher on the Florida Worldwide aspect. FIU received its closing 4 video games, together with a overcome Jacksonville State, to safe bowl eligibility below first-year coach Willie Simmons, who received the Celebration Bowl in 2023 at Florida A&M. UTSA coach Jeff Traylor, in the meantime, hasn’t appeared joyful this season, because the Roadrunners have not harnessed the momentum from some good house wins over Tulane and East Carolina. UTSA has the expertise edge with quarterback Owen McCown and others, however will or not it’s really motivated? I say sure.
Prediction: UTSA 37, Florida Worldwide 24
Saturday, Dec. 27
Go Bowling Navy Bowl
Pittsburgh Panthers vs. East Carolina Pirates
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium (Annapolis, Maryland)
11 a.m., ESPN
Pitt has been fairly good away from house this season, sweeping its ACC highway schedule at 4-0 and enduring its solely stumble towards West Virginia within the Yard Brawl. The Panthers seemingly have a vibrant future with quarterback Mason Heintschel, operating again Ja’Kyrian Turner and others set to return in 2026. East Carolina had a pleasant season below coach Blake Harrell, sustaining its solely losses towards bowl groups (NC State, BYU, Tulane, UTSA). Quarterback Katin Houser blossomed for ECU with 3,300 passing yards, and can problem Pitt’s protection. However the Panthers have a bit an excessive amount of firepower on this one.
Prediction: Pitt 34, East Carolina 28
Unhealthy Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl
Clemson Tigers vs. Penn State Nittany Lions
Yankee Stadium (Bronx, New York)
Midday, ABC
Neither staff entered the 2025 season anticipating to complete it out in a baseball stadium within the Bronx, though at the very least Dabo Swinney is a Yankees fan. Penn State made a midseason teaching change, whereas Swinney has hinted at important changes for the best way his program operates. Each groups completed robust, although, as Clemson swept its closing 4 video games, and Penn State claimed its closing three below interim coach Terry Smith, who will stay on employees with new coach Matt Campbell. Decide-outs probably will issue into this matchup, given the NFL hopefuls on each groups. The situation favors Penn State, which is able to play arduous for Smith and win a low-scoring contest.
Prediction: Penn State 20, Clemson 16
Wasabi Fenway Bowl
UConn Huskies vs. Army Black Knights
Fenway Park (Boston)
2:15 p.m., ESPN
For the primary time within the temporary lifetime of the Fenway Bowl, two groups based mostly within the Northeast will meet on the iconic baseball venue. UConn goals for its second straight win within the sport, and its first 10-win season, and shall be led by interim coach Gordon Sammis, the staff’s offensive coordinator, following Jim Mora’s departure to Colorado State. Military had an often-frustrating season, crammed with shut video games, however the Black Knights lastly began successful some down the stretch and can make issues difficult on UConn standout Joe Fagano (3,441 go yards, 28 touchdowns, 1 interception). However Fagano will do sufficient as UConn makes historical past.
Prediction: UConn 31, Military 23
Pop-Tarts Bowl
BYU Cougars vs. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Tenting World Stadium (Orlando, Florida)
3:30 p.m., ABC
America’s favourite newer bowl sport encompasses a actually enjoyable matchup for line-of-scrimmage fanatics. Will motivation be a priority? BYU felt it had a playoff-worthy profile, whereas Georgia Tech seemingly had a CFP path earlier than dropping three of its closing 4 regular-season video games. Coaches Kalani Sitake (BYU) and Brent Key (Georgia Tech) are true believers in bodily play and out-toughing your opponent. Each groups characteristic gifted operating quarterbacks in Haynes King, who’s enjoying his closing faculty sport, and Bear Bachmeier, a real freshman with 11 speeding touchdowns. BYU has a fairly important benefit on protection, although. Star linebacker Jack Kelly and his teammates get it performed.
Prediction: BYU 29, Georgia Tech 21
Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl
Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Fresno State Bulldogs
Arizona Stadium (Tucson, Arizona)
4:30 p.m., CW Community
As a toddler of the ’90s who considers “The Continual” one of many best-produced albums ever, I am not choosing towards a staff referred to as the Bulldogs within the Snoop Dogg Bowl. Not occurring! Fresno State thrives within the postseason, successful 5 of its previous six bowl video games, and first-year coach Matt Entz received two FCS nationwide championships at North Dakota State. To be honest, Miami received this bowl sport final yr, and coach Chuck Martin’s groups are all the time on the line of scrimmage. However Fresno State is fairly stingy on protection and has some stars, comparable to cornerback Simeon Harris and lineman Finn Claypool. Fresno State takes this one.
Prediction: Fresno State 24, Miami (Ohio) 17
Isleta New Mexico Bowl
North Texas Mean Green vs. San Diego State Aztecs
College Stadium (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
5:45 p.m., ESPN
This sport might come all the way down to which staff responds higher to latest disappointments. North Texas misplaced out on a CFP berth after falling to Tulane within the AAC title sport. Coach Eric Morris is shifting on to Oklahoma State, and North Texas’ roster state of affairs shall be price monitoring. Standout quarterback Drew Mestemaker made his first profession begin in North Texas’ final bowl sport, passing for 393 yards with 2 touchdowns and a couple of interceptions in a loss to Texas State. San Diego State returns to the identical stadium the place it misplaced its regular-season finale to New Mexico, costing itself a shot on the Mountain West title sport. The matchup encompasses a top-five scoring protection in San Diego State (12.6 ppg) towards the nation’s high scoring offense in North Texas (44.8 ppg). I am going to go along with protection in a good one.
Prediction: San Diego State 31, North Texas 28
TaxSlayer Gator Bowl
Virginia Cavaliers vs. Missouri Tigers
EverBank Stadium (Jacksonville, Florida)
7:30 p.m. ABC
Virginia hasn’t actually been on this place earlier than, having to rebound from the frustration of dropping out on its first CFP alternative. Coach Tony Elliott should rally his staff as an excellent alternative awaits to complete issues out with a team-record eleventh victory. Missouri’s 4 losses got here towards top-10 opponents on the time, and the Tigers have one of many nation’s finest operating backs in Ahmad Hardy, who has 1,560 speeding yards and 16 touchdowns in his first season as a Tiger. Coach Eliah Drinkwitz has received his previous two bowl video games with Missouri and may get a 3rd, because the Tigers win a lower-scoring sport.
Prediction: Missouri 26, Virginia 19
Kinder’s Texas Bowl
LSU Tigers vs. Houston Cougars
NRG Stadium (Houston)
9:15 p.m., ESPN
An LSU season that started with nationwide championship aspirations ends with a quasi-road sport towards Houston within the Texas Bowl, which the Tigers had been in — and misplaced — the final time they’d a midseason teaching change in 2021. Houston took an enormous step in coach Willie Fritz’s second season, bettering its win whole from 4 to 9. The sport’s key matchup may very well be LSU’s protection, which has been excellent and can stay below the path of coordinator Blake Baker, dealing with Conner Weigman, the previous Texas A&M quarterback who had 2,475 passing yards and 21 touchdowns for the Cougars this fall. Finally, location and motivation swing the arrow towards Houston, which will get its tenth win and evens the all-time sequence with LSU at 2-2.
Prediction: Houston 23, LSU 17
Monday, Dec. 29
JLab Birmingham Bowl
App State Mountaineers vs. Georgia Southern Eagles
Protecting Stadium (Birmingham, Alabama)
2 p.m., ESPN
Kudos to Appalachian State, which stated sure when many others didn’t, and gave Georgia Southern an opponent to shut out the season. These Solar Belt groups have already performed, which is not very best, however their first assembly delivered some late drama earlier than Georgia Southern prevailed 25-23. Georgia Southern’s final 4 wins all got here by seven factors or fewer, whereas Appalachian State misplaced 4 video games by eight factors or fewer. Neither staff is especially robust on protection, however Georgia Southern boasts star energy on offense with huge receiver Camden Brown, who has 1,049 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, and provides to these totals in a win.
Prediction: Georgia Southern 37, Appalachian State 31
Tuesday, Dec. 30
Radiance Applied sciences Independence Bowl
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
Independence Stadium (Shreveport, Louisiana)
2 p.m., ESPN
Coach Sonny Cumbie’s Bulldogs quietly rebounded properly this fall, making certain their first successful season since 2019. In addition they shall be enjoying simply 70 miles from campus and could have a big crowd benefit, particularly towards a Coastal Carolina program going by a training change after Tim Beck’s firing. Louisiana Tech’s offense has had a couple of no-shows this season, however scored a complete of 76 factors in its previous two video games and has a deep and balanced speeding contingent with 4 ball carriers eclipsing 450 yards.
Prediction: Louisiana Tech 35, Coastal Carolina 24
Liberty Mutual Music Metropolis Bowl
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini
Nissan Stadium (Nashville, Tennessee)
5:30 p.m., ESPN
There shall be loads of orange in Nissan Stadium, though a lot of it will not be cheering for Illinois, which caps a season that started with CFP hopes, was sidetracked sharply with a 53-point loss at Indiana however nonetheless ended with wins in three of the ultimate 4 regular-season contests. Illini quarterback Luke Altmyer began his profession within the SEC at Ole Miss and might end it towards an SEC opponent in Tennessee, which pursued him as a switch goal this spring after Nico Iamaleava‘s exit to UCLA. The Vols by no means actually recovered from their early loss to Georgia and have a lot to type out on protection, which ranks 91st nationally in factors allowed. Count on quite a lot of scoring on this one, however Tennessee prevails behind quarterback Joey Aguilar.
Prediction: Tennessee 37, Illinois 30
Valero Alamo Bowl
USC Trojans vs. TCU Horned Frogs
Alamodome (San Antonio)
9 p.m., ESPN
Inserting an excessive amount of emphasis on non-CFP bowls could be tough, however this one feels necessary for Lincoln Riley and USC. The Trojans clearly improved this season, regardless of as soon as once more falling wanting the CFP. They carry within the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class and may retain a number of key foundational gamers from this yr’s roster. A road-like win towards TCU would imply USC’s first 10-win season since 2022, and a possible top-15 end. TCU can considerably quietly end with consecutive nine-win seasons. Decide-outs shall be a storyline for USC with star wideout Makai Lemon and others not enjoying, however the Trojans ought to have sufficient to outlast the Horned Frogs.
Prediction: USC 37, TCU 30
Wednesday, Dec. 31
ReliaQuest Bowl
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Vanderbilt Commodores
Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, Florida)
Midday, ESPN
Vanderbilt lobbied aggressively for CFP inclusion, although the staff by no means entered severe consideration. Diego Pavia and the Commodores nonetheless can ship a robust closing argument towards an Iowa staff led by the nation’s No. 8 scoring protection. Few gamers have reworked a whole program — the best way it is seen, the best way it sees itself — as a lot as Pavia at Vandy the previous two seasons. Iowa will present a pleasant check because the Hawkeyes pushed groups comparable to Indiana and Oregon, even in defeat. However Pavia and the Vanderbilt offense shall be an excessive amount of on this one, because the Commodores safe a once-unthinkable eleventh win and a attainable top-10 end.
Prediction: Vanderbilt 34, Iowa 23
Tony the Tiger Solar Bowl
Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Duke Blue Devils
Solar Bowl Stadium (El Paso, Texas)
2 p.m., CBS
The 2025 ACC champions and 2024 Huge 12 champions meet in considered one of faculty soccer’s most iconic stadiums, for a Devils vs. Devils conflict. Though Duke turned the shock ACC winner, it additionally seemingly underachieved this season, particularly as a result of quarterback Darian Mensah delivered on the hype with 3,646 passing yards, 30 touchdowns and solely 5 interceptions. ASU will counter with quarterback Jeff Sims, who started his profession at Georgia Tech earlier than a difficult journey that culminated with a strong end. The Solar Devils will want a robust defensive effort to decelerate Mensah.
Prediction: Duke 35, Arizona State 31
Cheez-It Citrus Bowl
Michigan Wolverines vs. Texas Longhorns
Tenting World Stadium (Orlando, Florida)
3 p.m., ABC
The one query right here is Texas’ motivation degree, after lacking out on the CFP for the primary time since 2022, regardless of beating two playoff contributors in No. 7 Texas A&M and No. 8 Oklahoma, in addition to No. 14 Vanderbilt. The Longhorns have a significantly better profile than Michigan, which misplaced by double digits to the very best three groups it confronted and did not make the most of a good schedule in quarterback Bryce Underwood‘s freshman season. Michigan capped 2024 with a shock bowl win towards an SEC opponent, however I actually do not see it occurring once more. Arch Manning accounts for 3 touchdowns, and Texas shuts down Underwood and U-M.
Prediction: Texas 28, Michigan 20
SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Utah Utes
Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas)
3:30 p.m., ESPN
As Kyle Whittingham’s profession winds down, a bowl win could be a becoming send-off for the longer term Corridor of Fame coach. Whittingham dominated the postseason earlier in his profession (11-1 in first 12 bowl video games) however has struggled currently (5 straight losses, together with the 2023 Las Vegas Bowl). The Utes nonetheless ought to deal with a Nebraska staff that appears very a lot in flux, with its roster and training employees. Star operating again Emmett Johnson is off to the NFL, and coach Matt Rhule has made a number of employees adjustments. Nebraska’s protection probably could have a number of issues with Devon Dampier. Utes roll.
Prediction: Utah 38, Nebraska 20
Friday, Jan. 2
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
Rice Owls vs. Texas State Bobcats
Amon G. Carter Stadium (Fort Price, Texas)
1 p.m., ESPN
The staff opt-outs opened a chance for Rice, which is able to full its first season below coach Scott Abell and search the staff’s first bowl victory since 2014. Rice has wins over UConn and Louisiana however actually struggled defensively late within the season, which Texas State ought to be capable to expose. Quarterback Brad Jackson and huge receiver Beau Sparks join for 2 touchdowns because the Bobcats draw back.
Prediction: Texas State 41, Rice 24
AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Navy Midshipmen vs. Cincinnati Bearcats
Simmons Financial institution Liberty Stadium (Memphis, Tennessee)
4:30 p.m., ESPN
One of many final bowl video games may very well be among the many most enjoyable, particularly with the quarterback matchup of Navy’s Blake Horvath and Cincinnati’s Brendan Sorsby. Horvath has back-to-back 1,000-yard speeding seasons, whereas Sorsby completed the common season with 2,800 passing yards and 27 touchdowns. Cincinnati’s poor end is a priority, although, because the Bearcats did not eclipse 24 factors in any of their 4 losses. Navy does not take these video games flippantly, having received six of its previous seven bowl video games, together with final yr’s Armed Forces Bowl. Mids get it performed.
Prediction: Navy 27, Cincinnati 24
Duke’s Mayo Bowl
Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs
Financial institution of America Stadium (Charlotte, North Carolina)
8 p.m., ESPN
From Egg Bowl disappointment to Mayo Bowl mania, Mississippi State is within the postseason as a fill-in staff. How will the Bulldogs capitalize on their shock alternative? Regardless of a 5-7 document, Mississippi State competed significantly better this season below coach Jeff Lebby, and has the offensive expertise to offer Wake Forest some issues. Wake is not afraid to grind out wins with its protection and run sport, led by Demond Claiborne. Coach Jake Dickert has performed an important job in his first season, and he’ll cap it with a mayo dump.
Prediction: Wake Forest 31, Mississippi State 27
Belief & Will Vacation Bowl
Arizona Wildcats vs. SMU Mustangs
Snapdragon Stadium (San Diego)
8 p.m., Fox
Loads can occur to each rosters between now and Jan. 2, however this seems to be one of many extra evenly matched pairings in bowl season. Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita has seen all of it throughout his profession, and might safe the staff’s second 10-win season in three years — and simply the fifth in staff historical past — with a victory in San Diego. SMU will counter with Kevin Jennings, who seeks postseason redemption after his tough efficiency in final yr’s CFP. Each groups can defend properly, too, and boast standouts, comparable to safeties Dalton Johnson (Arizona) and Ahmaad Moses (SMU). A tricky name right here, however I am going to go along with Arizona in an in depth one.
Prediction: Arizona 30, SMU 24
