The 2026 College Football Playoff will end the 2025-26 season. This is the second year of the 12-team expansion program, which is centered around a showcase tournament under the lights in South Florida. The title game pits the winners of the CFP semifinals (scheduled for January 8-9, 2026) against each other for the national crown. Here's everything you need to know about the big game, and some early predictions as the bowl season heats up.
Complete 2026 College Football Playoffs
Here are the important details for 2026 College Football Playoff for you.
- The date: Monday, January 19, 2026
- Kickoff time: 7:30 PM ET
- Place: Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, Florida
- Television channelDownload: ESPN
- Promenade: ESPN app, WatchESPN, Fubo
- Publishers (expected): Chris Fowler (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst), with sideline reporters Holly Rowe and Molly McGrath
Hard Rock Stadium, home to the Miami Dolphins and University of Miami Hurricanes, previously hosted the CFP National Championship in 2021 (Alabama def. Ohio State). A great venue has been confirmed, which has also hosted several Super Bowls and the 2024 Copa América final.
Road to the Champions League
12 CFP Features:
- First Round: December 19-20, 2025 (on site)
- Quarterly: December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026 (Fiesta, Peach, Rose, Sugar Bowls)
- Semifinals: January 8-9, 2026 (Orange and Cotton Bowls)
- National Championship: January 19, 2026
The top four seeds receive byes into the quarterfinals, while seeds 5-12 host the first round games.
The First Prediction
With the first round starting this week (Dec 19-20), it's still open – but here are some early calls for who could take home the trophy in Miami. Please do your own research.
- Favorite: Indiana (No. 1 seed with a bye) – The Hoosiers have been dominant all season; A deep run is possible if they avoid upsets.
- The Dark Horse: Oregon (No. 5 seed) – The Ducks have the skills to upset the big seeds and make a surprise.
- Likely to give it back to him: Take care Alabama vs. a large power house. A vengeful mistake can lead to a classic finale.
- Choosing the competition: Indiana on Texas Tech in a matter of great importance. The Hoosiers' balance ended the Red Raiders' explosive offense. Predicted scores: Indiana 38, Texas Tech 31.
(These are the first-round picks, check back after the semifinals for updated picks!)
Free Printable CFP Resources
Take us down free printables to track the project:
More CFP & Bowl resources on SportsBrackets.net
The game is about to begin – stay tuned for updates, results, and more as we travel to Miami!
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