After years of anticipation, the College Football Playoff (CFP) has finally expanded, bringing fresh excitement to fans across the country. The inaugural 12-team playoff format has produced thrilling games, hefty matchups, and unexpected results as teams vie for the chance to compete for the national title. With the quarterfinals just wrapped up, it’s time to look at how the new playoff structure is shaking up college football.
The quarterfinals, which took place during the New Year's holiday, showcased some stellar performances. Notably, on New Year’s Eve, Penn State decisively defeated Boise State 31-14 at the Fiesta Bowl, marking the first time they advanced to the CFP's ‘Final Four’. The Nittany Lions controlled the game, showcasing their defensive prowess against Boise State's star running back Ashton Jeanty. This win solidified Penn State's position as one of the top teams this season, showcasing their strength heading toward the semifinals.
Meanwhile, on January 1, the Peach Bowl provided fans with everything they could want and more as Texas faced off against Arizona State. What unfolded was nothing short of exhilarating, with Texas winning 39-31 after two overtimes. The Longhorns took an early lead, going up 17-3 at half-time. But, true to form, Arizona State rallied back, with star running back Cam Skattebo leading the charge. His trick play pass and subsequent rushing touchdowns brought the Sun Devils back to level the game. Yet, Texas remained resilient, with quarterback Quinn Ewers connecting beautifully with his receivers to seal the game during overtime, including two touchdown passes and key defensive plays. This impressive performance has the Longhorns poised to challenge Ohio State next.
Ohio State also solidified its place in the CFP semifinals by showcasing its dominance over the top-seeded Oregon team, winning decisively 41-21 during the Rose Bowl earlier the same day. The Buckeyes jumped to an early lead, scoring their first touchdown merely three plays in. While Oregon managed to put some points on the board later, it was evident throughout the game who was in control. Ohio State’s powerful showing, particularly after struggling through the regular season, shifts their momentum entering the semifinals.
Looking forward, the upcoming Cotton Bowl on January 10 is set to be electrifying, pitting Texas against Ohio State. The Longhorns will carry the advantage of home crowd energy, earning them confidence after their thrilling double-overtime victory. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes, buoyed by recent performances, enter with momentum on their side, hungry for another victory to propel them to the national championship.
Also scheduled on the horizon is the Orange Bowl on January 9, where Penn State will face the winner of the Sugar Bowl between No. 2 Georgia and No. 7 Notre Dame. This matchup promises to deliver more high stakes and drama as teams continue to battle for the championship. The Sugar Bowl, initially delayed due to tragic events surrounding New Year’s celebrations, is set to take place at 4 p.m. ET, bringing with it the heightened anticipation and stakes often seen at this time of year.
Fans have been treated to not only thrilling matchups but also discussions surrounding potential changes to the playoff format. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey is already contemplating alterations to improve the experience, including possibly shifting first-round byes and adjusting automatic berths, which could impact how future playoff seasons are structured. Even as this thought-provoking dialogue occurs, teams are solely focused on this year’s battles, each game promising to be more competitive than the last.
With the national championship game set for January 20, 2025, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA, there is still much to play for. The expansion of the College Football Playoff has clearly intensified the competition, making this season particularly unforgettable. Fans are excitedly gearing up for what is sure to be more adrenaline-pumping action as teams forgo rest to prepare for the demanding path to the title.
Now, as teams finalize their strategies and ramp up their training, the college football world eagerly anticipates skirmishes between these formidable playoff contenders. Will the early favorites—Georgia, Texas, Ohio State, and Penn State—rise to the challenge, or will they fall prey to unexpected subplots and Cinderella stories? One thing is certain: the stage is set for history-making moments and memorable battles as the 2024-2025 College Football Playoff reaches its peak. The rich traditions of college football meet the thrill of its unpredictable nature—making for intriguing narratives and unforgettable games all the way to the finish line.