As 2025 draws to a close, college football fans across the globe are treated to a final, action-packed day of bowl games. December 31 features a quintet of thrilling contests, headlined by the first College Football Playoff quarterfinal of the season. From intriguing non-playoff battles to the high-stakes clash in the CFP, here is your detailed guide to all the day's gridiron action.
Afternoon Bowl Game Slate: Defensive Battles and Blueblood Clashes
The day kicks off at noon ET with the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, Florida, broadcast on ESPN. This compelling opener features two surprising playoff contenders: the No. 12 ranked Vanderbilt Commodores and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Vanderbilt's breakout season, spearheaded by Heisman Trophy runner-up quarterback Diego Pavia, will be tested by Iowa's renowned stout defense. While Pavia will play, the Commodores will be without top tight end Eli Stowers, who has opted out to prepare for the NFL draft. Iowa's defense, led by linebacker Karson Sharar aiming to contain Pavia, will look to its own offensive weapon, quarterback Mark Gronowski, who poses a significant rushing threat with 15 touchdowns on the ground this season. Vanderbilt's edge rusher Miles Capers will be key in targeting Gronowski, setting the stage for a likely defensive struggle.
At 2 PM ET on CBS, the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas sees ACC champion Duke take on the Big 12's Arizona State Sun Devils. This game serves as a rematch of sorts from years past. Arizona State enters the contest hampered by key absences due to injuries and transfers, placing a heavy burden on veteran quarterback Jeff Sims and running back Kanye Udoh. Duke appears stronger on paper, with quarterback Darian Mensah confirmed to play and expected to return next year. He is supported by a potent offensive cast including running back Nate Sheppard and wide receiver Cooper Barkate. Despite the Sun Devils' challenges, this matchup has the potential to be highly competitive.
The afternoon continues with a classic showdown at 3 PM ET on ABC in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida. Two college football bluebloods, the No. 14 Texas Longhorns and the No. 17 Michigan Wolverines, collide amidst periods of transition for both programs. Michigan is navigating significant coaching changes, while Texas is building for its future. Both squads will miss key defensive players due to opt-outs, but the spotlight will shine on the quarterbacks: Arch Manning for Texas and Bryce Underwood for Michigan. Considerable curiosity surrounds Michigan's game plan under its incoming staff, making this name-brand matchup intriguing despite the roster adjustments.
Evening Action: Debuts and the CFP Quarterfinal Showdown
At 3:30 PM ET on ESPN, the Las Vegas Bowl features the No. 15 Utah Utes against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. This game marks the earlier-than-planned head coaching debut of Utah's Morgan Scalley. The Utes, whose only losses this season came against Big 12 finalists, will rely on quarterback Devon Dampier and running back Wayshawn Parker to dominate on the ground. Nebraska, meanwhile, is hampered by injuries and will start quarterback TJ Lateef without the services of Dylan Raiola and top rusher Emmett Johnson. Utah's ability to control the clock with its rushing attack could be the decisive factor in this contest.
The Main Event: Cotton Bowl CFP Quarterfinal
The nightcap is the marquee event of the day: the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl in Arlington, Texas. Kickoff is at 7:30 PM ET on ESPN. The defending champion and No. 2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes face the resilient No. 10 Miami Hurricanes. The clash presents a fascinating tactical battle: Ohio State's elite run defense will be challenged by Miami's powerful ground game, featuring running back Mark Fletcher and quarterback Carson Beck. Beck also possesses a big-play threat in receiver Malachi Toney.
For Ohio State, quarterback Julian Sayin will look to connect with his dynamic receiving duo of Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. However, he must first evade relentless pressure from Miami's formidable edge rushers, Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor. Patrolling the middle of the field for the Buckeyes will be the talented safety Caleb Downs and linebacker Sonny Styles. This high-stakes playoff game promises to be a fitting climax to a full day of college football excitement.
This final day of 2025 offers a perfect blend of tradition, emerging talent, and championship stakes, providing fans with a full slate of games to enjoy as the year concludes.
