ATLANTA (Dec. 31, 2024) – The anticipation is building for the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, where two titans of college football will clash. Scheduled for January 1, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the event promises to be memorable not just for the game but for the tradition honoring notable alumni from both schools. Aaron Ross from Texas and Jake Plummer from Arizona State have been named as honorary captains for their respective teams.
Ross, who made his mark as an All-American defensive back, played an instrumental role during his time at Texas. From 2003 to 2006, he helped the Longhorns achieve commendable success, including securing three bowl victories and clinching the BCS National Championship. With stats like 205 tackles, 33 breakups, and 10 interceptions, Ross's legacy is etched firmly at the university. His accolades also include being the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and one of three Thorpe Award winners from Texas. His post-college career saw him drafted 20th overall by the New York Giants, where he contributed to two Super Bowl championships.
Meanwhile, Plummer, the celebrated quarterback from Arizona State, led his team to impressive heights during his playing days. Recognized as a First Team All-American and Pac-10 Player of the Year, Plummer's on-field prowess included leading Arizona State to its second-ever Pac-10 title and Rose Bowl appearance. He concluded his collegiate career with notable rankings, finishing third for the Heisman Trophy and cementing his legacy before embarking on a decade-long NFL career.
The Peach Bowl is not only about the game; it serves as the bridge connecting fandom and college pride. Thousands of dedicated fans have already made their way to downtown Atlanta to partake in the festivities. Just yesterday, fans from both Texas and Arizona State gathered at the Georgia Aquarium for 'fan night' and participated in a high-energy pep rally. Bands played fight songs, fueling school spirit as fans from near and far joined together, sharing stories and building camaraderie.
Addison Chu, a Longhorns fan who traveled from San Francisco, reflected on the experiences of attending the bowl game irrespective of his team's previous seasons. "I went to school there from 2012 to 2016. So... some bad years. But this is it, I think we’re looking really good," he said, emphasizing optimism heading toward the matchup.
On the other side of the rivalry, Arizona State fan Addison Davis expressed her delight at the festivities, stating, "It’s a lot of fun. I lived here when I was really, really young so I don’t really recall it completely. But I feel like everybody is really nice. That’s what I’ve noticed since I’ve been here.” The spirited exchange between fans of both teams took on playful tones, especially when pondering the outcome of the game, as Davis joked about the fate of her relationship with Chu, saying, "Just kidding—what happens after the game? Are you guys going to stay together?"
The Peach Bowl stands as one of the premier college football showcases, and this year promises to be no different, with exceptional alumni like Ross and Plummer adding gravitas to the occasion. The event kicks off at 1 p.m. ET, where captains from both teams will meet on the field for the emotional pregame coin toss alongside these legendary players. The game is expected to draw not only loyal fans but also numerous viewers eager to witness the clash of two historically significant programs.
While the teams prepare to battle it out on the field, the festivities highlight the camaraderie and spirit of college football. From pep rallies to band performances and fan interactions, this year's Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl is about more than just football; it's about tradition, pride, and community, all colliding under one roof as alumni and fans come together to celebrate their shared love for the game.
With the stage set and excitement palpable, as the clock ticks down to the new year, both teams and their fans are poised for what could be one of the most thrilling matchups of the college football playoff quarterfinals. Whether it be unforgettable performances or historic moments, the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl 2025 promises to deliver. Stay tuned as the action begins!