Big Changes in College Football Playoffs: What You Need to Know

The 2025-26 college football season is set to deliver unprecedented excitement with a 12-team playoff bracket, marking only the second year of this thrilling new format.

Key Dates and Highlights

• Playoff Kickoff: December 19, 2025
• National Championship: January 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida

First Round Showdowns

• No. 9 Alabama vs. No. 8 Oklahoma
• No. 10 Miami vs. No. 7 Texas A&M

Quarterfinals (December 31, 2025 - January 1, 2026)

• No. 10 Miami vs. No. 2 Ohio State
• No. 6 Ole Miss vs. No. 3 Georgia

Semifinals (January 8-9, 2026)

• No. 6 Ole Miss vs. No. 10 Miami
• No. 1 Indiana vs. No. 5 Oregon

Past Championships: Anything Can Happen

Recent years have seen Alabama, Clemson, and Georgia dominate, but Ohio State's 2025 victory over Notre Dame proved that underdogs can rise to the occasion.

Future Championships

• 2027 Championship: Las Vegas

With 12 teams in the mix, every game is crucial. Fans can expect thrilling moments, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable finishes as the season unfolds.