Cotton Bowl
Photo Cred: Rock M Nation
Missouri (10-2) will play in its first New Year’s Six bowl appearance since 2013 against Ohio State (11-1). The Buckeyes will be facing the possibility of NFL Draft opt-outs. Missouri boasts the SEC’s leading rusher in RB Cody Schrader, who topped the conference in rushing yards. On the defensive side, Ohio State has been a force, allowing just 4.1 yards per play and conceding a mere 11 points per game. This paves the way for an intriguing clash of strengths.
Orange Bowl
Photo Cred: Capital One Orange Bowl
The Orange Bowl pits unbeaten Florida State (13-0) against Georgia (12-1), with both teams nursing the disappointment of being left out of the playoffs. Even with the potential absence of Jordan Travis, the game is expected to deliver excitement. Florida State brings an intimidating defense. Georgia’s tumble from No. 1 adds an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.
Sugar Bowl
Photo Cred: Dave Campbell’s Texas Football
A playoff-era rematch unfolds in the Sugar Bowl, as No. 2 Washington (13-0) squares off against No. 3 Texas (12-1). This matchup will rekindle the intensity of last season’s non-playoff Alamo Bowl, where the Huskies emerged victorious by securing a 27-20 win. Both teams, propelled by MVP performances from Michael Penix Jr. and Quinn Ewers in their respective conference title games, have showcased an elevated level of play this year. It sets the perfect stage for a clash of titans.
Rose Bowl
Photo Cred: Rose Bowl
The Rose Bowl takes center stage as No. 1 Michigan (13-0) and No. 4 Alabama (12-1) lock horns in a tantalizing playoff semifinal featuring two of college football’s most iconic programs. With only three previous meetings, and just one under the stewardship of Jim Harbaugh and Nick Saban, the Wolverines and Crimson Tide last faced off on January 1, 2020. It was in the Citrus Bowl, with Alabama prevailing 35-16. This matchup promises high stakes and intense competition as both teams vie for a spot in the national championship.
Alamo Bowl
Photo Cred: Valero Alamo Bowl
Arizona (9-3) and Oklahoma (10-2) headline a highly anticipated Alamo Bowl matchup, consistently ranking among the top non-New Year’s Six bowls. Arizona rides into the game on the momentum of a six-game win streak to close out the season. Oklahoma rebounded from consecutive losses to Kansas and Oklahoma State, finishing strong with an impressive 159 points scored in their final three games. The clash showcases the resilience and determination of both teams, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown in San Antonio.
