The college football bowl season is gearing up as the new year approaches, with the action intensifying over the next few days. Friday’s lineup features five games showcasing teams from the prominent power four conferences. While there is only one Top 25 team in the mix, the day may still offer some notable matchups. The games today are mainly taking place in warm-weather cities, so if you’re looking to see coaches and players trying to avoid the cold, you’ll have to wait until tomorrow.
Let’s take a quick peek at the Friday matchups, starting in Texas and then moving east and west.
Armed Forces Bowl – Navy vs. Oklahoma
Time/TV/location: Noon ET, ESPN, Fort Worth, Texas
Preview: Navy aims to cap off a successful season with another win after their impressive victory over Army. Oklahoma, despite a challenging season in the SEC, managed to secure a notable win against Alabama. Navy’s QB Blake Horvath has been a standout performer with over 2,300 yards of offense and 28 touchdowns. On the other side, Oklahoma’s freshman QB Michael Hawkins Jr. faces the challenge of leading a team with several players transferring out. The Sooners will need to establish their running game and contain Navy’s option offense to secure a victory.
Potential letdown: Navy’s ball security will be crucial, and Oklahoma’s ability to defend the unique academy offense will determine the competitiveness of the game.
Birmingham Bowl – Georgia Tech vs. Vanderbilt
Time/TV/location: 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, Birmingham, Ala.
Preview: Georgia Tech and Vanderbilt, both coming off significant wins in their respective conferences, promise an intriguing matchup. The bowl game marks a fresh start for Commodores QB Diego Pavia, who secured another year of eligibility. Yellow Jackets QB Haynes King, overcoming injuries, is set to play alongside RB Jamal Haynes.
Potential letdown: With both teams emphasizing ball control, the game should be evenly matched and engaging for viewers.
Liberty Bowl – Arkansas vs. Texas Tech
Time/TV/location: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN, Memphis, Tenn.
Preview: Arkansas and Texas Tech renew old Southwest Conference ties in a rare meeting since the Razorbacks joined the SEC. While Arkansas leads the historical series, Texas Tech got the upper hand in their last encounter. Both teams are looking to end the season on a high note, with QB Taylen Green and RB Ja’Quinden Jackson leading Arkansas’ ground attack. Texas Tech faces a challenge as starting QB Behren Morton is sidelined, putting the pressure on freshman Will Hammond to guide the offense. RB Tahj Brooks might rest for the draft, adding an element of uncertainty to the Red Raiders’ game plan.
Potential letdown: A lopsided result would likely favor Texas Tech, making it a disappointing night for Arkansas.
The Friday matchups offer a mix of intriguing storylines and competitive games, making it a must-watch for college football fans.
Matchup with the more explosive offense. The Razorbacks will need to control the ball for extended periods to maintain possession.
Holiday Bowl – No. 25 Syracuse vs. Washington State
Time/TV/location: 8 p.m. ET, Fox, San Diego.
Why watch: Washington State fans have faced a tough year. Despite a strong start to the 2024 season, they have seen significant turnover, with many players and coaches departing. Interim coach Pete Kaligis will lead the remaining Cougars, with Zevi Eckhaus making his first QB start, supported by standout WR Kyle Williams. Syracuse, coming off a dramatic comeback victory against Miami, boasts a more stable roster led by QB Kyle McCord, WR Jackson Meeks, and TE Oronde Gadsden.
Why it could disappoint: With substantial changes affecting Washington State, their ability to compete may be compromised, potentially leading to a decisive victory for Syracuse.
Las Vegas Bowl – Southern California vs. Texas A&M
Time/TV/location: 10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, Las Vegas.
Why watch: Despite not meeting their season expectations, both USC and Texas A&M remain attractive draws for fans. Texas A&M stayed in the conference championship race until their final loss to Texas, while USC secured bowl eligibility with a crucial win over UCLA. Marcel Reed has solidified his place as A&M’s QB, succeeding Conner Weigman, who entered the transfer portal. USC has turned to Jayden Maiava at QB, facing challenges with key players transferring out or opting out.
Why it could disappoint: The possibility of either team losing interest in the game exists, but the presence of talented playmakers could keep the matchup engaging.
