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USA Today Predicts the Entire College Football Playoff & Bowl Slate

Grant White

Host · Writer

CFP National Championship
January 25, 2027

Affiliations: Semifinals Winners

Georgia Bulldog vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

The Bulldogs and Buckeyes enter the season as the first and third-ranked teams in the country, respectively. This heavyweight bout would captivate the nation, producing another undisputed champion.
Salute to Veterans Bowl
December 15, 2026

Affiliations: Conference USA/MAC/Sun Belt

Toledo Rockets vs. Troy Trojans

Troy had some turnover on offense, but it shouldn't come at the expense of production. A safe bet for a bowl game, the Trojans would be outmatched by Toledo.
Frisco Classic
December 15, 2026

Affiliations: Conference USA vs. Sun Belt

Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs. Marshall Thundering Herd

Marshall's streak of eight consecutive winning seasons came to an end in 2025. Nevertheless, they have a winnable schedule and should be back in a bowl game this season.
Boca Raton Bowl
December 18, 2026

Affiliations: Group of 6 vs. Group of 6

Buffalo Bulls vs. Texas State Bobcats

With no conference affiliations, any two Group of 6 foes could find themselves heading into the Boca Raton Bowl. Buffalo is a virtual shoo-in, whereas Texas State could face a stiffer climb.
Gasparilla Bowl
December 18, 2026

Affiliations: SEC vs. American

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. South Florida Bulls

We know the SEC is no joke, and we still can't take the Razorbacks seriously. Maybe they surprise, but it's more likely the Razorbacks miss out on a bowl game for the third time in four seasons.
Myrtle Beach Bowl
December 21, 2026

Affiliations: Conference USA/MAC/Sun Belt

Central Michigan Chippewas vs. Old Dominion Monarchs

Low-key, Central Michigan could make some noise as a premier Group of 6 team this season. A bowl game versus a powerful Monarchs squad would be one of the best pre-Christmas showdowns.
Idaho Potato Bowl
December 21, 2026

Affiliations: MAC/Mountain West/Pac-12/Sun Belt

Miami (OH) Redhawks vs. Boise State Broncos

Giving the Broncos a home game versus a MAC opponent would be a bloodbath. But that could be what the Broncos deserve if they miss out on the CFP.
Puerto Rico Bowl
December 22, 2026

Affiliations: MAC vs. Group of 6

Ohio Bobcats vs. Connecticut Huskies

UConn has been invited to a bowl game in three of the past four seasons. That trend should continue in 2026, with a clash versus the Ohio Bobcats in the Puerto Rico Bowl.
Cure Bowl
December 22, 2026

Affiliations: American/Conference USA/Mountain West/Sun Belt

FIU Panthers vs. Arkansas State Red Wolves

Parity is the name of the game in the Sun Belt Conference. Still, Arkansas State is a sure bet for a 13th game. After missing a bowl game for five straight years, FIU could play its second consecutive postseason game.
Independence Bowl
December 22, 2026

Affiliations: Big 12 vs. Conference USA

Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. Liberty Flames

Most pundits have the Cowboys in a bowl game this season; however, we have serious apprehensions about their chances. Liberty should easily be favored in this one.
New Orleans Bowl
December 23, 2026

Affiliations: Conference USA vs. Sun Belt

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. James Madison Dukes

As far as Group of 6 matchups go, there aren't many better than Western Kentucky versus James Madison. We're rooting for this.
Armed Forces Bowl
December 23, 2026

Affiliations: Big 12/American/Mountain West/Sun Belt

Air Force Falcons vs. UL-Monroe Warhawks

These loose affiliations allow every service academy to be included in the Armed Forces Bowl. This year, it looks like its Air Force's chance to fly high over the Warhawks.
Frisco Bowl
December 23, 2026

Affiliations: Group of 6 vs. Group of 6

Washington State Cougars vs. San Diego State Aztecs

These newly minted Pac-12 rivals could face off for the second time this season in the Frisco Bowl. We suspect the bowl committee would avoid a duplicate matchup, but maybe USA Today has it right.
New Mexico Bowl
December 24, 2026

Affiliations: Mountain West vs. Group of 6

North Dakota State Bison vs. Fresno State Bulldogs

North Dakota State may have a bit of a learning curve as it ventures into the FBS ranks. Anything other than a bowl game berth would be a disappointment.
Hawaii Bowl
December 24, 2026

Affiliations: American vs. Mountain West

UTSA Roadrunners vs. Hawaii Rainbow Warriors

Hawaii should have no problem finishing bowl eligible again in 2026. With that, they are virtually guaranteed a home game versus an AAC opponent. This year, USA Today projects that to be UTSA.
Pinstripe Bowl
December 26, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. Big Ten

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers

Finally, another syndicate that is as bullish on the Golden Gophers as we are. Minnesota gets to test its mettle against Georgia Tech.
Fenway Bowl
December 26, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. American

Duke Blue Devils vs. East Carolina Pirates

Duke is looking to recapture its championship magic from last season. A winning season is probable, but a playoff berth is not. See you in the Fenway Bowl, Blue Devils!
Duke's Mayo Bowl
December 26, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. SEC

Virginia Tech Hokies vs. South Carolina Gamecocks

An SEC team hasn't won the Duke's Mayo Bowl since 2021. Coincidentally, that just happened to be South Carolina. The Gamecocks should trample the Hokies.
68 Ventures Bowl
December 26, 2026

Affiliations: Conference USA/MAC/Sun Belt

Kennesaw State Owls vs. Georgia Southern Eagles

Kennesaw State is on the rise, while Georgia Southern has been one of the most consistent Group of 6 programs. We're here for this matchup.
Cactus Bowl
December 26, 2026

Affiliations: Big 12 vs. Big Ten

Kansas Jayhawks vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Nebraska is looking to take the next step. If things go as planned, that should include a more prestigious berth than the Cactus Bowl.
Military Bowl
December 28, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. American

Louisville Cardinals vs. Army Black Knights

There are some who believe that Army will contend for a CFP spot. The Military Bowl would be an adequate consolation prize if they come up short.
Birmingham Bowl
December 29, 2026

Affiliations: SEC vs. American

Kentucky Wildcats vs. Memphis Tigers

There aren't many SEC vs. American matchups where we give the edge to the AAC opponent, but this would be one of the few.
Pop-Tarts Bowl
December 29, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. Big 12

Clemson Tigers vs. Houston Cougars

The Cougars are aiming higher than the Pop-Tarts Bowl. If they come up short of the CFP, expect a depleted squad taking on Clemson.
Alamo Bowl
December 29, 2026

Affiliations: Big 12 vs. Pac-12

Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Washington Huskies

This seems like the most logical landing spot for Washington. Expect revolt in Lubbock if this is where the Red Raiders end up.
Gator Bowl
December 30, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. SEC

SMU Mustangs vs. Tennessee Volunteers

Tennessee regressed in 2025, but the Vols are looking to get back into the CFP for the second time in three seasons. That might be an optimistic goal, with an ACC battle in the Gator Bowl a more likely outcome.
Music City Bowl
December 30, 2026

Affiliations: Big Ten vs. SEC

Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Missouri Tigers

Illinois won't replicate its success from last season. Likewise, Mizzou could have a few hard battles throughout the campaign. This is the poetic ending both programs deserve to the 2026 season.
ReliaQuest Bowl
December 31, 2026

Affiliations: Big Ten vs. SEC

Michigan Wolverines vs. Texas A&M Aggies

Michigan is a perennial contender, but we can't help but think they're a few steps behind the Big Ten's best. Another bridesmaid bowl for the Wolverines.
Sun Bowl
December 31, 2026

Affiliations: ACC vs. Pac-12

Florida State Seminoles vs. USC Trojans

No one could have predicted Florida State's fall from grace following its 2023 season. The Seminoles would need to match their win total from the last two seasons combined to be in consideration for this one.
Las Vegas Bowl
December 31, 2026

Affiliations: SEC vs. ACC/Big Ten/Big 12

Florida Gators vs. Iowa Hawkeyes

The Gators need a big season to reassert themselves as a powerhouse. Even if they aren't in contention, a notable bowl game victory could satiate the need for more wins.
Texas Bowl
December 31, 2026

Affiliations: Big 12 vs. SEC

Kansas State Wildcats vs. Auburn Tigers

This might be one of the more anticlimactic Power 4 bowl games. We still don't think Auburn can do it, but the Tigers would be well-suited for a mid-range Big 12 team like K-State.
Citrus Bowl
January 2, 2027

Affiliations: Big Ten vs. SEC

Penn State Nittany Lions vs. LSU Tigers

Everyone is expecting Penn State to bounce back in a big way this season. We're taking a more guarded approach with the Nittany Lions, but think LSU is well-suited for the Citrus Bowl.
First Responder Bowl
January 2, 2027

Affiliations: American/ACC/Big 12

Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. Baylor Bears

Wake Forest's win total is listed at 5.5, albeit with the over juiced to -130. They can't afford any slip-ups if the Demon Deacons hope to earn a bowl game berth. Similarly, Baylor will want to get to six wins before the calendar flips to November.
Liberty Bowl
January 2, 2027

Affiliations: Big 12 vs. SEC

TCU Horned Frogs vs. Vanderbilt Commodores

Vandy won't catch anyone off guard in 2026. We'll need to see a resilient Commodores squad if they hope to play in the new year. Like most other Big 12 teams, TCU should have no problem securing a bowl game berth.
Pointsettia Bowl
TBA

Affiliations: Mountain West vs. Pac-12

UNLV Running Rebels vs. Arizona Wildcats

UNLV is trying to prove it belongs in the upper-tier of college football teams. A Pointsettia berth doesn't validate their growth, but the Running Rebels are here to stay.
Holiday Bowl
TBA

Affiliations: ACC vs. Pac-12

NC State Wolfpack vs. Arizona State Sun Devils

Arizona State is looking for its third straight bowl berth, and Kenny Dillingham should have no problem getting the Sun Devils there. NC State is always a safe bet for a bowl game berth.
Arizona Bowl
TBA

Affiliations: MAC vs. Mountain West

Western Michigan Broncos vs. New Mexico Lobos

Formerly the FBS laughingstock, New Mexico is hoping to build some momentum off last year's 9-4 season. Getting to beat the wheels off a MAC opponent only strengthens their cause.
CFP First-Round
December 18, 2026

Affiliations: #12 vs. #5

Navy Midshipmen vs. Oregon Ducks

One of the most surprising inclusions in the CFP across any syndicate, USA Today predicts Navy will be the Group of 6 representative in the 2026 playoffs. If that's the case, the Midshipmen are still no match for Oregon.
CFP First-Round
December 19, 2026

Affiliations: #11 vs. #6

Ole Miss Rebels vs. Indiana Hoosiers

Indiana wants to capitalize off last season's unbeaten run. The Hoosiers would be in tough versus Ole Miss in this predicted first-round matchup.
CFP First-Round
December 19, 2026

Affiliations: #10 vs. #7

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Texas Longhorns

Losing is never an option in Alabama. A Blue Blood brawl versus Texas is what all football fans should be rooting for.
CFP First-Round
December 19, 2026

Affiliations: #9 vs. #8

Brigham Young Cougars vs. Oklahoma Sooners

Most college football projections include BYU in the CFP. The Big 12 is no cake walk, and the Cougars have slipped up in the past. Surely, they would be no match for Oklahoma.
CFP Quarterfinals
December 30, 2026

Affiliations: Fiesta Bowl

Miami Hurricanes vs. Oregon Ducks

USA Today has the Miami Hurricanes penciled in as the four seed in this year's CFP. That's the low end of the Hurricanes' spectrum in 2026.
CFP Quarterfinals
January 1, 2027

Affiliations: Cotton Bowl

#3 Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. Indiana Hoosiers

Notre Dame has something to prove. Expect a "take-no-prisoner" approach this season, and that includes a Cotton Bowl showdown versus Indiana.
CFP Quarterfinals
January 1, 2027

Affiliations: Rose Bowl

#2 Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Alabama Crimson Tide

Assuredly, Ohio State is a top-two team in the country. We're anticipating a deeper run relative to last season's disappointing finish, as is USA Today.
CFP Quarterfinals
January 1, 2027

Affiliations: Peach Bowl

#1 Georgia Bulldogs vs. Oklahoma Sooners

Continuity is Georgia's biggest strength heading into the 2026 campaign. We agree that they are a top contender for this year's natty, and should be the favorite at the outset of the CFP.
CFP Semifinals
January 14, 2027

Affiliations: Orange Bowl

Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

If Notre Dame battles it out against Ohio State in the Orange Bowl, it will go down as an instant classic. A game-winning field goal as time expires should send the Buckeyes back to the National Championship.
CFP Semifinals
January 15, 2027

Affiliations: Sugar Bowl

#1 Georgia Bulldogs vs. Oklahoma Sooners

Maybe this is the year Oklahoma lives up to the hype, and maybe the Sooners make it to the semifinals. Still, it won't end well for Sooners Nation if this is where they have to battle it out versus Georgia.
CFP National Championship
January 25, 2027

Affiliations: Semifinals Winners

Georgia Bulldog vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

The Bulldogs and Buckeyes enter the season as the first and third-ranked teams in the country, respectively. This heavyweight bout would captivate the nation, producing another undisputed champion.
Salute to Veterans Bowl
December 15, 2026

Affiliations: Conference USA/MAC/Sun Belt

Toledo Rockets vs. Troy Trojans

Troy had some turnover on offense, but it shouldn't come at the expense of production. A safe bet for a bowl game, the Trojans would be outmatched by Toledo.

USA Today Predicts the Entire College Football Playoff & Bowl Slate

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