Get ready for an action-packed college football season! The 2025-26 bowl game schedule is here, and it's a doozy. But before we dive in, let's address the elephant in the room: Are bowl games still relevant in the era of the College Football Playoff?
Some argue that the traditional bowl system is outdated, with the focus now on the CFP and its quest for the ultimate championship. But here's where it gets controversial: others believe that bowl games offer a unique opportunity for teams to gain recognition and for fans to enjoy a festive atmosphere. So, let's explore the schedule and see if we can find a happy medium.
The season kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 13, with the Celebration Bowl, where South Carolina State takes on Prairie View A&M at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This game sets the tone for a series of exciting matchups across the country.
LA Bowl: Boise State and Washington face off in Inglewood, a battle of the West. And this is the part most people miss: the LA Bowl has become a highly anticipated event, blending sports and entertainment in a unique way.
Salute to Veterans Bowl: On Dec. 16, Troy and Jacksonville State honor our veterans in Montgomery. A powerful tribute and a must-watch for all football fans.
Cure Bowl: Old Dominion and South Florida clash in Orlando on Dec. 17, followed by the 68 Ventures Bowl, featuring Louisiana and Delaware.
Xbox Bowl: Arkansas State and Missouri State go head-to-head in a tech-themed matchup on Dec. 18. And yes, the name is a nod to the gaming world.
The action continues with the Myrtle Beach Bowl, Gasparilla Bowl, and the highly anticipated College Football Playoff First Round Games, including Oklahoma vs. Alabama and Texas A&M vs. Miami (Fla.).
As we move through December, the excitement builds with the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, Boca Raton Bowl, and the New Orleans Bowl, among others. And let's not forget the College Football Playoff Quarterfinals, where the road to the championship begins.
The New Year brings more thrilling matchups, with the Armed Forces Bowl, Liberty Bowl, and the unique Duke's Mayo Bowl. And the College Football Playoff Semifinals on Jan. 8 and 9 will surely keep fans on the edge of their seats.
But wait, there's more! The College Football Playoff National Championship Game on Jan. 19 is the grand finale, where the ultimate champion will be crowned.
Now, let's take a trip down memory lane with the College Football Playoff scores since 2014. From the thrilling 2014 Rose Bowl to the most recent 2024 CFP National Championship, each season has offered unforgettable moments.
So, are bowl games still relevant? You decide. But one thing's for sure: the 2025-26 college football bowl season promises to be an exciting journey, blending tradition and the quest for the ultimate title. Stay tuned, and let the games begin!
