The highly anticipated college football playoff events kick off with a thrilling lineup as New Year’s week approaches. This week features an exciting array of bowl games leading up to the quarterfinal round of the newly introduced 12-team College Football Playoff. The spotlight will shine on the Fiesta Bowl, where Penn State will face Boise State on Tuesday night, marking the highlight of the week.
Before the playoff action begins, fans can enjoy four bowl games that showcase well-known football programs. These matchups, taking place mostly in Florida and Texas, involve teams eager for a victory, although they might have hoped to play later in the week.
The games start at noon ET in Tampa, Florida, with Alabama facing Michigan. This rematch of last year’s playoff semifinal sees Alabama featuring quarterback Jalen Milroe, while Michigan will be without several key players, making it a challenge for quarterback Davis Warren.
Next, at 2 p.m. ET in El Paso, Texas, Louisville will take on Washington. Louisville’s quarterback Tyler Shough and wide receiver Ja’Corey Brooks are absent, placing Harrison Bailey at the helm. Washington will be looking to gain experience in their first bowl game after joining the Big Ten.
The action picks back up at 3 p.m. ET in Orlando, Florida, with South Carolina and Illinois squaring off. After a strong finish in the SEC, South Carolina will rely on freshman QB LaNorris Sellers to lead their efforts, missing some of their top offensive players.
Finally, at 3:30 p.m. ET in Houston, Baylor takes on LSU. Baylor’s recent winning streak gives them momentum, while LSU looks to rebound from a mid-season slump despite key players opting for the draft.
The showcase event of the day, the Fiesta Bowl, kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET in Glendale, Arizona, where Boise State’s standout RB Ashton Jeanty, who had an impressive season, faces a tough challenge from Penn State’s formidable defense.
While there are some concerns about potential disappointments due to missing players and team struggles, the hope remains for exhilarating and competitive matchups. Each game has the potential to surprise and excite fans, leading up to the playoff action that will set the stage for an unforgettable college football postseason.
In summary, college football fans are in for a treat with a lineup filled with competitive matchups before the landmark Fiesta Bowl featuring Penn State and Boise State. This New Year’s week promises to deliver thrilling moments and showcase the passion and talent of college football.