College Football Bowl Schedule 2025-26: Key Dates and Matchups Revealed!

Miami Lakes, USA - The excitement is building as college football fans gear up for the 2025-26 bowl season, which promises to be an action-packed affair. The official schedule has now been revealed, positioning this postseason as one of the most anticipated in recent years. With a total of 47 games set to take place, including 46 in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), a staggering 82 teams will get a shot at postseason glory, representing about 60% of the entire FBS landscape. As Bleacher Report makes clear, fans can expect to see some of their favorite teams vying for titles starting December 13, culminating in the national championship on January 19, 2026.

This year’s College Football Playoff (CFP) is particularly noteworthy as it features a 12-team format, offering more teams the chance to compete for coveted positions. The CFP kicks off with the Cotton Bowl on December 31, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET, easily setting the stage for a thrilling New Year’s Day filled with more quarterfinal games. The Orange Bowl, Sugar Bowl, and Rose Bowl will host these important matchups on January 1, ensuring a festive atmosphere for football lovers everywhere.

Bowl Game Highlights

Mark your calendars! Here are some key highlights from the upcoming schedule:

• Dec. 13: Celebration Bowl at 12 p.m. ET on ABC; LA Bowl at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.
• Dec. 31: Cotton Bowl at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, kicking off CFP quarterfinals.
• Jan. 1: Orange Bowl at 12 p.m., Rose Bowl at 4 p.m., Sugar Bowl at 8 p.m., all on ESPN.
• Jan. 8: Fiesta Bowl at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, CFP Semifinal.
• Jan. 9: Peach Bowl at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, CFP Semifinal.
• Jan. 19: National Championship at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

According to FBSchedules, the bowl season will commence with two games on December 13, including the fan-favorite Army-Navy Game on the same day at 3:00 p.m. ET. The opening week will be bustling with excitement, as five more bowl games are lined up from December 16 to 19, paving the way for the start of the CFP.

Television Broadcasts and Viewing Options

Fans will be happy to hear that ESPN will cover 42 out of the 47 games, ensuring that no one misses a moment of the thrilling action. Other networks like CBS, FOX, and The CW will also join the mix for special broadcasts. With such extensive coverage, it’s clear that there’s a good hand in making this a season to remember.

As laid out by SI.com, all first-round games for the CFP will be played at the home stadiums of the higher-seeded teams, adding a touch of anticipation and local pride to the competition. Selection Day on December 7 promises to switch gears and bring clarity to matchups.

The excitement is palpable as college football’s finest prepare for battle. With a mix of tradition and innovation, the 2025-26 Bowl Season is sure to serve up unforgettable moments for players and fans alike. Let’s get ready for the kickoff and see which team will rise to the occasion!