As the 2025-26 college football season wraps up, fans eagerly look ahead to one of the most exciting times of the year: bowl games. The postseason schedule features a total of 41 matchups, ranging from the historic Cotton Bowl to the celebrated Pinstripe Bowl, all culminating in the thrilling College Football Playoff (CFP). Below, we break down the entire slate and highlight what to watch as teams vie for bragging rights and a chance to cap off their seasons on a high note.
The Landscape of the 2025-26 Bowl Season
Despite whispers around the future of the traditional bowl season and concerns about sustainability, college football will once again deliver a rich postseason filled with drama and compelling matchups. Not every bowl is created equal, but every game offers its own brand of intrigue, whether it’s a high-stakes CFP semifinal or a less-celebrated game showcasing emerging programs eager for postseason experience.
Ranking the 41 Bowl Games
Starting from the least to the most prestigious, let’s explore a few of the key matchups to anticipate:
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68 Ventures Bowl (Dec. 17): Louisiana vs. Delaware
This early bowl slot marks a unique matchup where Delaware, fresh off their transition from FCS to FBS, takes on Louisiana with an intriguing run-heavy attack. Fun fact: Louisiana’s quarterback sports the standout name “Lunch Winfield,” capturing some off-field attention as well. -
Birmingham Bowl (Dec. 29): Georgia Southern vs. Appalachian State
Amidst a postseason where numerous eligible teams have opted out, this game stands out as a battle of Sun Belt rivals. The matchup underscores ongoing challenges in college football’s bowl system but offers a competitive glimpse into mid-major programs looking to build momentum. -
XBox Bowl (Dec. 18): Arkansas State vs. Missouri State
Missouri State, rebounding after their move to FBS and now eligible for postseason play, takes on Arkansas State in a fresh venue—this bowl replaces the Bahamas Bowl and is hosted in Frisco, Texas. The game offers a fresh chapter for both programs.
Spotlight on the Premier Bowls With CFP Implications
The postseason’s excitement truly builds as we approach marquee matchups steeped in tradition and playoff stakes:
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Cotton Bowl is a perennial fan favorite, often featuring top-ranked teams with playoff ambitions. Expect high-caliber action and storylines that might influence the College Football Playoff picture directly.
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Rose Bowl, often dubbed "The Granddaddy of Them All," pairs teams from major conferences with storied histories, making it a classic tradition with CFP buzz every year.
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Pinstripe Bowl, nestled in Yankee Stadium, provides an atmospheric backdrop and frequently features strong programs looking to make a statement before winter’s end.
The College Football Playoff Kickoff
The postseason crescendo begins with the opening round of the CFP, where four elite teams battle for a berth in the national championship game. The CFP sets itself apart as the definitive stage where legacies are cemented and champions emerge.
What to Expect This Season
Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day will be jam-packed with football at all levels, and the bowl schedule offers something for everyone: from long-time powerhouses to Cinderella stories and breakout stars. For college football purists, the diverse slate of games offers opportunities to enjoy top-level competition as well as cheer for programs on the rise.
Final Thoughts
As we count down to the bowl season kickoff, make sure to mark your calendars and prepare your game-day snacks. Whether you’re tuning in to the Cotton Bowl’s big plays, following the Pinstripe Bowl’s dramatic finishes, or rallying behind teams in lesser-known bowls like the Birmingham or 68 Ventures Bowl, there’s no shortage of excitement in college football’s winter showcase.
So grab your remote, get comfy, and join fellow fans in celebrating the sport’s defining moments leading into 2026!
All game times referenced are Eastern.
