We have tackled the first significant question of the new college football playoff era: Does home-field advantage in the opening round hold importance? Moving forward to the quarterfinal round, the focus shifts to whether holding a conference title and earning a first-round bye prove to be advantageous. Penn State, coming off a victory against SMU, showed no signs of fatigue as they defeated Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. As we await the final three quarterfinal games on New Year’s Day, we anticipate gaining more insights into emerging trends. The action starts in Atlanta, then moves to California for the second matchup before concluding near Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Three teams will advance to the semifinals, while three will see their season come to an end. Without delay, here’s everything you need to know about the matchups and schedule for planning your New Year’s Day viewing.
Peach Bowl – No. 4 Arizona State vs. No. 5 Texas
Time/TV/location: Wednesday, 1 p.m. ET, ESPN, Atlanta
Why watch: Arizona State secured a first-round bye following criticism directed at the Big 12, while Texas, fresh from their conference title game, seeks to advance with minimal wear and tear. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers showed improvement against Clemson, supported by running back Jaydon Blue and tight end Gunnar Helm. Arizona State’s defense, led by Myles Rowser and Xavion Alford, aims to contain Texas’ offense. Arizona State’s offensive standout is RB Cam Skattebo, complemented by QB Sam Leavitt. Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is a key figure in their active defense.
Why it might not meet expectations: The matchup tests the perceived talent gap between the SEC and the Big 12. Depth concerns may also affect the Longhorns due to additional game time.
Rose Bowl – No. 1 Oregon vs. No. 8 Ohio State
Time/TV/location: Wednesday, 5 p.m. ET, ESPN, Pasadena, Calif
Why watch: A potential rematch of the thrilling contest at Autzen Stadium promises high drama. Oregon’s QB Dillon Gabriel faces Ohio State’s formidable secondary, led by Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs. Ohio State’s offense, propelled by QB Will Howard and talented receivers, seeks success against Oregon’s LB Matayo Uiagalelei.
Why it might not meet expectations: Unlikely to disappoint, this rematch could match the intensity of their previous encounter.
By dissecting these matchups, fans can look forward to an exciting New Year’s Day lineup.
In the end, the Ducks were able to hang with them before.
SECOND CHANCE: Will Howard relishes another shot at Oregon
WHO WINS?: Expert predictions for Ohio State-Oregon in Rose Bowl
Sugar Bowl – No. 2 Georgia vs. No. 7 Notre Dame
Time/TV/location: Wednesday, 8:45 p.m. ET, ESPN, New Orleans.
Why watch: The round of eight concludes with this heavyweight showdown of storied programs. In a first round of dominant performances, the Fighting Irish might have turned in the most impressive of the lot, shutting down the high-powered Indiana passing game. The talented back seven led by DB Xavier Watts and LB Jack Kiser now turns its attention to Bulldogs QB Gunner Stockton, who will make his starting debut with the highest of stakes. He will bring an element of mobility to the offense that starter Carson Beck did not, but he might still need to lean on RBs Trevor Etienne and Nate Frazier to limit his risk. Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard is an even more dangerous dual threat, and RB Jeremiyah Love can break off big runs as well. The Georgia front seven has a lot of versatility, but LB Jalon Walker is often a major component of the game plan.
Why it could disappoint: It might turn into a punting duel if the defenses take charge. It might also be challenging for either squad to overcome a multi-score deficit if there are early miscues.
WHO WINS?: Expert predictions for Georgia-Notre Dame in Sugar Bowl
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College football bowl games today: Schedule has three playoff matchups
