The highly anticipated 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship Game pits the Notre Dame Fighting Irish against the Ohio State Buckeyes, set to take place on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Fans are not just eager for the game but also buzzing about the halftime entertainment, which has its own unique flavor compared to the NFL's extravagant Super Bowl performances.
Traditionally, college football halftimes have showcased the proud marching bands of the universities involved. This year, both the Ohio State University Marching Band (OSUMB), often hailed as "The Best Damn Band in the Land," and the Band of the Fighting Irish are poised to take center stage. They are expected to play spirited tunes, infusing the atmosphere with school pride and energy. While no high-profile celebrity will grace the field for this year's postseason spectacle, this return to form should resonate well with college sports fans who cherish these traditions.
Yet, this year offers something different. Making waves amid the expected marching band performances, Grammy-winning artist Travis Scott has announced he will debut his new song "4x4" during the halftime show. Scott's performance, as reported by various outlets, has generated excitement, especially as it's his first new solo material since releasing his chart-topping album "Utopia" in 2023. The inclusion of Scott at halftime highlights the shifting dynamics of college football entertainment, as schools blend traditional components with contemporary music culture.
ESPN hinted at the surprise guest earlier, stating, "Halftime of ESPN’s presentation features a special guest who is going to make an unforgettable appearance. Fans won’t want to miss this." With Scott’s past involvement in high-profile performances, particularly during the Super Bowl halftime show, fans are eager to see what he brings to the college game.
Adding to the pre-game festivities, Coco Jones will perform the national anthem, and her accolades include winning the Best R&B Performance Grammy last year for her hit song "ICU." This powerful performance will be complemented by the Spelman College Glee Club, which will sing "America the Beautiful."
The absence of fanfare like elaborate stage setups is intentional, with the spotlight instead on the rich traditions inherent to college football. This intentional focus on the bands emphasizes the heart of college sports culture—a stark difference from the flash of NFL halftime shows, which often feature superstar entertainers. Amid this backdrop, the marching bands will fulfill their time-honored roles, delighting both students and alumni.
Interestingly, last year’s championship did not feature any marching bands, which has since heightened the anticipation for this event. Unlike the previous showdown between Michigan and Washington, which saw no musical performances, the return of the bands this year signifies the revival of this cherished college football aspect.
Scott's latest song "4x4" might just reignite fan discussions about the blending of musical entertainment with college football traditions. There's speculation about whether this performance hints at Scott's forthcoming album, or if it's merely a standalone release for charity. Proceeds from his merchandise linked to this performance are directed toward the Direct Relief’s California Wildfire Response Fund, showcasing Scott's engagement with significant social causes.
The duality of the performance—the mix of Scott’s contemporary artistry alongside the bravado of university marching bands—captures the essence of today’s college football experience. This concentrated spotlight on two different types of performers reveals how the CFP National Championship Game continues to evolve.
With both Notre Dame and Ohio State fielding exceptional marching bands recognized nationally, it’s easy to understand why the focus returns to these student musicians. Their performances symbolize school spirit and the long-standing traditions from which college football draws its identity.
Fans who enter Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the championship will not just witness athletic prowess on the field but cultural celebrations during halftime. The night promises to be not just about crowning the national champion but about honoring the rich traditions of collegiate sports as well.
So, as the countdown begins for the 2025 CFP National Championship, fans prepare for what will undoubtedly be another memorable halftime show at one of college football's most significant events!