While many families are gathering for Thanksgiving feasts, the college football schedule for the day is notably sparse, featuring just one game. However, this single matchup promises to be a thrilling clash.
No. 18 Tulane will host No. 23 Memphis in a highly anticipated American Athletic Conference (AAC) encounter. Despite the absence of traditional rivalries like the Egg Bowl, which won’t occur this year, and the return of the Texas-Texas A&M game not being featured on Thanksgiving, this showdown stands out.
The reduced number of college football games on Thanksgiving might be a strategic decision to avoid competing with the NFL, which will showcase three major games: the Chicago Bears against the Detroit Lions at 12:30 p.m., followed by the Dallas Cowboys hosting the New York Giants at 4:30 p.m., and the Miami Dolphins facing off against the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m.
Here’s what to know about the featured college matchup:
– **Teams**: No. 23 Memphis at No. 18 Tulane
– **Kickoff**: 7:30 p.m. ET
– **Broadcast**: ESPN
Both teams come into this game with identical records of 9-2, with Tulane boasting an impressive perfect record in the conference at 7-0, while Memphis stands at 5-2. Although this game doesn’t affect the AAC standings (as Tulane is already set for the AAC championship against No. 22 Army), it carries significant weight concerning the College Football Playoff (CFP) race. Currently, Tulane ranks as the second highest Group of Five team, positioned at No. 17 in the CFP rankings. A victory for the Green Wave could keep their playoff hopes alive, especially if Boise State suffers a loss, thus potentially earning a coveted automatic qualifier spot in the forthcoming expanded 12-team playoff.
For viewers, the game will air on ESPN, with streaming options available through Fubo, which offers a free trial for first-time subscribers.
Despite the limited college football offerings on Thanksgiving, the Tulane-Memphis game stands out, promising excitement and a chance for teams to enhance their season’s narrative. Sports fans can look forward to an engaging matchup and the hope of witnessing Tulane solidifying its position in the playoff discussion.