Celebrating College Football’s Timeless Tradition
By KEVIN M c NAMARA
Like any coach owning legitimate hopes of heading to the College Football Playoff, Shane Beamer was more than disappointed when his South Carolina team fell just short. His distress didn’t last long.
With a 9-3 record and a six-game winning streak to end the regular season, Beamer’s Gamecocks enjoyed one of the best seasons in school history. They knew they’d earned a nice Bowl Season destination, but which one? After hearing one possibility, then others, South Carolina officials found out that representatives at the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl wanted his team in Orlando instead of several others from the Southeastern
Conference. The news sent the spirits of everyone in the program soaring.
“ If you’re not going to be in the playoff, this is the best possible destination. It’s nothing against any other bowl but they chose us.”
– SHANE BEAMER Head Coach, South Carolina Gamecocks
“If you’re not going to be in the playoff, this is the best possible destination. It’s nothing against any other bowl but they chose us,” Beamer said. “In the end, we couldn’t be more fired up about where we’re going.’’
A trip to the Cheez-It Bowl quickly reverberated through Gamecock fans. The program’s initial ticket allotment was swallowed up in hours. Beamer felt so good for his players, a team that has a chance
to get a 10th win at South Carolina for only the fourth time ever.
And the (43) bowl games are ready for action. For 11 months bowl committees clear the decks after one game and then prepare for a bigger and better experience the following December. That’s the case at the IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl, for example. The city of Montgomery, Ala., loves its football and the teams from the Sun Belt and MidAmerican Conferences certainly enjoy their experience. So do the fans. Montgomery rolls out the red carpet for its Capital City Christmas Parade where fans, school marching bands and cheerleaders from the competing schools find themselves in the midst of a city-wide celebration of the season — and of college football.
“From predicting the matchups and destinations to enjoying a one-of-a-kind experience, Bowl Season continues to create great moments and memories for everyone involved. ”
– NICK CARPARELLI Bowl Season, Executive Director
The next night, Dec 14, the party continues as city residents and fans from the competing schools will pack the historic Cramton Bowl for the kickoff. Similar community-based celebrations take place from Boston to Orlando, Las Vegas to Frisco every Bowl Season.
“It amazes me every year how excited people get as we approach Bowl Season,” said Bowl Season executive director Nick Carparelli. “From predicting the matchups and destinations to enjoying a one-of-a-kind experience, Bowl Season continues to create great moments and memories for everyone involved. As we like to say, it is truly a celebration of college football.”
There are dramatic, feel-good stories of several programs qualifying for Bowl Season for the first time in years. The Sam Houston Bearkats (9-3) will make their first-ever bowl appearance after transitioning from the FCS. Nebraska has punched a bowl ticket for the first time in eight seasons. Head Coach Matt Rhule knows the impact this next month will have on his players.
“Realizing that these guys haven’t had that (bowl experience) is big,” Rhule said. “That’s an extra two weeks to a month of practice, real practice and preparation. It’s like an extra spring ball. Guys on our team,
sophomores and juniors and seniors who’ve never had that time, (we realize) how much it can develop them. Post-season is a huge opportunity for a lot of guys.”
While the country is thirsting for its first look at a 12-team College Football Playoff, history tells us the sporting public loves bowl football of any stripe. Last year’s New Year’s Six and CFP games averaged 15.1 million viewers and hopes are certainly sky high for this year’s expanded playoff games.
But ESPN reported big numbers for other games as well. Its Bowl Season presentation scored 2.4 million viewers across 33 games — 28 matchups surpassed one million viewers, 19 drew 2 million viewers, nine topped 3 million viewers and 11 games reached multi-year highs. The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl (6.8 million viewers), the ReliaQuest Bowl (4.6 million) and Pop-Tarts Bowl (4.3 million) topped those charts.
LEADING
NFL status it should be noted that only 257 were ultimately selected by the pros last April. That’s 257 of the thousands of players fortunate enough to be on teams that qualified to be a part of Bowl Season. Leave it to the ever-quotable Colorado head coach, Deion Sanders, to issue a declaration that all coaches feel this time of the year. The Buffaloes are bowl eligible for the first time since 2020.
WITH PURPOSE: Deion Sanders emphasizes the importance of finishing strong as Colorado earns its first bowl eligibility since 2020.
Numbers like that speak to the health of the Bowl Season lineup.
While there will be some high-profile players choosing to miss the bowl experience to protect their
“Our kids are going to play in our bowl game,” Sanders said, “because that’s what we signed up to do and we’re going to finish. We’re not going to tap out. That throws off the structure of next season.”
Like many coaches, Sanders said he’s looking forward to setting a foundation for the following season and keeping his program on a path to continual success.
“There’s a couple teams that should take note,” Coach Prime noted. “They laid an egg in the bowl game and they haven’t recovered since. We don’t plan on doing that. We plan on going out there fighting.”
2024-25 BOWL SEASON MATCHUPS
Cricket Celebration Bowl
Jackson State (11-2) vs. South Carolina State (9-2)
The Tigers are taking a SWAC championship into Bowl Season after a dominating 41-13 win over Southern University. Jackson State is riding a nine-game winning streak and hoping their explosive offense, headed by Irv Milligan with his 1,216 yards rushing yards, will overpower the Bulldogs. South Carolina State brings with them, 17 All-MEAC postseason honors and eight consecutive wins to close out the regular season.
IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl
South Alabama (6-6) vs. Western Michigan (6-6)
The contest will mark the first-ever meeting between the Jaguars and Broncos. This is the third consecutive bowl appearance under the guidance of Head Coach Major Applewhite for the Jags. Bowl eligibility came down to the wire for Western Michigan, who finished off the 2024 regular season with a 26-18 win over rival Eastern Michigan. Jacob Gideon, Rimington Trophy finalist, will lead the charge in his final game as a Bronco. Gideon is the first Bronco in program history to be named a finalist and just the second in the history of the Mid-American Conference.
Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl
Memphis (10-2) vs. West Virginia (6-6)
DEC 17 (TUE)
The Memphis Tigers, ranked No. 25 in both the CFP Top 25 and AP Poll, finished third in the American Athletic Conference. They are on an 11-year bowl streak, the seventhlongest in the nation, and boast the longest active streak of scoring 20+ points in 38 consecutive games since November 2021. Their opponent, the West Virginia Mountaineers, feature a top 30 rushing offense and are among the least-penalized teams nationally. WVU senior offensive tackle Wyatt Milum, a semifinalist for the Outland Trophy, has not allowed a sack in two seasons.
Boca Raton Bowl
Western Kentucky (8-5) vs. James Madison (8-4)
DEC 18 (WED)
Head Coach Tyson Helton is coming off a hard loss to Jax State in the CUSA championship game. The Toppers are counting on Elijah Young (RB) to add to his 846 rushing yards and Lucas Carnerio (K) to bring his, league leading, field goal completion percentage to the post season. JMU was tied for third in the Sun Belt East Division, at 4-4. This season was highlighted by a road victory against ACC foe North Carolina, in which the Dukes scored 70 points to set a Kenan Stadium record while being named National Team of the Week.
Art of Sport LA Bowl
Hosted By Gronk
California (6-6) vs. UNLV (10-3)
After starting off the regular season strong with three sizable-wins, the Bears fell into a fourgame losing streak. This caused them to battle the rest of the season for bowl eligibility. The Rebels from UNLV are coming off a loss to No. 9 Boise State in the Mountain West Championship. They ended the regular season ranked 24 by the College Football Playoff. Del Alexander (wide receivers) will act as the interim head coach for the bowl game. DEC 18 (WED)
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
Georgia Southern (8-4) vs. Sam Houston (9-3)
DEC 19 (THU)
Georgia Southern, who are making their sixth bowl appearance in the last seven seasons, are led by third year head coach Clay Helton. The Eagles will count on Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year Marques Watson-Trent to head the defense and keep the Bearkats at bay. The Kats head to New Orleans for their first-ever bowl appearance at the FBS level. They are led by interim head coach, offensive coordinator, Brad Cornelsen. The bowl will mark the first football meeting between Georgia Southern and Sam Houston.
2024-25 BOWL SEASON MATCHUPS
StaffDNA Cure Bowl
Ohio (10-3) vs. Jacksonville State (9-4)
The MAC champion Ohio Bobcats face the CUSA champion Jacksonville State Gamecocks in a ground-dominant matchup. Ohio secured its first conference title since 1983 and ranks 14th nationally in rushing offense, averaging 209.1 yards per game, led by Anthony Tyus II with 960 yards and nine touchdowns. Jax State, in its first FBS-level championship, boasts the nation’s second-ranked rushing offense, averaging 267.3 yards per game, and scoring 35.4 points per game, 18th nationally.
Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl
Tulane (9-4) vs. Florida (7-5)
Tulane and Florida wrap up contrasting seasons in this bowl matchup. Tulane was strong throughout, losing only four close games to ranked teams while contending for a third straight conference championship appearance. Florida struggled early but secured bowl eligibility with late season wins against No. 21 LSU and No. 9 Ole Miss. This will be the 22nd meeting between the teams, the first since 1984, with their rivalry dating back to their shared SEC days from 1933-1965.
Myrtle Beach Bowl
Coastal Carolina (6-6) vs. UTSA (6-6)
The Chanticleers are staying home this bowl season as the Myrtle Beach Bowl is played on their campus. The Roadrunners will look to AAC Defensive Player of the Year Jimmori Robinson and seven other all conference defensive players to hold down the Chanticleers. UTSA’s record doesn’t tell the full story of their season, playing in four games decided by one score.
Hawai’i Bowl
South Florida (6-6) vs. San Jose State (7-5)
USF won four of its last six games to close the 2024 regular season. This game clocks at over 4,200 miles from Tampa, the farthest destination the Bulls have ever played away from home. San Jose State posted a 34-31 victory at home over Stanford to close the regular season, winning two of four games in November. The Spartans are led by first year head coach Ken Niumatalolo. USF won at San Jose State 42-22 in the opening game of the 2017 season, the first meeting between the programs.
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Northern Illinois (7-5) vs. Fresno State (6-6)
Northern Illinois relied on a stellar defense, ranking in the Top 15 nationally in six categories, including fifth in total defense and second in third-down conversion defense to secure bowl eligibility for the second straight year. Winning three of their last four games, Fresno State finished fourth in the Mountain West with a 4-3 conference record and are bowl eligible for the fourth consecutive season under interim head coach Tim Skipper. NIU leads the all-time series 3-2.
GameAbove Sports Bowl
Pittsburgh (7-5) vs. Toledo (7-5)
The Panthers make their 38th all-time postseason appearance, and under the leadership of head coach Pat Narduzzi achieved some notable wins this season against Syracuse, California, and West Virginia. Pittsburgh holds a perfect 2-0 record in Detroit-hosted bowl games, last emerging victorious in the 2019 Quick Lane Bowl. On the other sideline, Toledo brings an experienced squad, with 20 seniors playing their final collegiate game. The Rockets aim to finish strong after a successful 7-5 season.
2024-25 BOWL SEASON MATCHUPS
Rate Bowl
Rutgers (7-5) vs. Kansas State (8-4)
Rutgers secured its first seven-win season since 2014, a program-best four Big Ten victories and finished strong winning three of its last four games. The Scarlet Knights' offense shined, featuring a 2,000-yard passer, 1,000-yard rusher, and two 500-yard receivers. Kansas State opened 2024 with a 7-1 record, highlighted by wins over ranked Arizona and Oklahoma State, plus a road victory at Colorado. The Wildcats extended their Governor's Cup streak to 16 wins over Kansas but faltered in November.
68 Ventures Bowl
Arkansas State (7-5) vs. Bowling Green (7-5)
Arkansas State heads into its second consecutive bowl appearance, continuing an impressive trend as one of just three programs nationwide to increase its win total each year since 2022. The Red Wolves aim to make a statement in their first appearance at the 68 Ventures Bowl. Their opponent, Bowling Green, makes their fourth trip to this bowl. The Falcons bring postseason experience to the matchup setting the stage for a well-matched showdown.
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
Oklahoma (6-6) vs. Navy (8-3)
Navy makes their third Armed Forces Bowl appearance, achieving a winning record for the first time since 2019 and a disciplined ground game led by QB Blake Horvath. Oklahoma, coming off a recent win against Alabama, will make their first trip to the Armed Forces Bowl during their inaugural year in the SEC. The Sooners, led by true freshman QB Mike Hawkins, are looking to end the season with a winning record. This exciting matchup promises a clash of styles with Navy's runheavy offense and Oklahoma's fast-paced attack.
Birmingham Bowl
Georgia Tech (7-5) vs. Vanderbilt (6-6)
Georgia Tech was 2-1 against AP Top 10 teams this season and will look to show out in their first-ever Birmingham Bowl appearance. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt, led by quarterback Diego Pavia — a junior college walk-on turned SEC standout — comes into the matchup riding the momentum of a decorated season that included historic wins over Auburn and then-No. 1 Alabama. Pavia aims to cap off the Commodores’ breakthrough year with a victory against the Yellow Jackets.
AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Texas Tech (8-4) vs. Arkansas (6-6)
This marks the second Liberty Bowl appearance for Texas Tech, following an impressive 8-win season under their belt. Standout running back Tahj Brooks is in his final season of eligibility and holds the Texas Tech Red Raiders' all-time rushing yards record with 4,560 yards. The Razorbacks are coming off a tough SEC schedule, including recent games against Texas, Ole Miss and Missouri, and are primed to make a statement in this Big 12-SEC showdown.
DIRECTV Holiday Bowl
Syracuse (9-3) vs. Washington State (8-4)
In their inaugural Holiday Bowl appearance, Syracuse heads to San Diego coming in hot with a three-game win streak, including a marquee victory against then-No. 6 Miami. Washington State, appearing for the fifth time, hopes their high-powered offense can go toe-to-toe with the Orange under first-year head coach Fran Brown, who has energized the program in his debut season. Syracuse looks to continue their momentum and finish the season on a high note.
SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl
Texas A&M (8-4) vs. USC (6-6)
Under the bright lights of Sin City, Texas A&M makes its debut in the Las Vegas Bowl powered by a stout defense that ranked among the best in the SEC this season. The Aggies take on USC, making their third appearance in this bowl game. The Trojans are ending their season where it began and look to finish their first year as a member of the Big Ten with a strong performance.
Wasabi Fenway Bowl
UConn (8-4) vs. North Carolina (6-6)
Set against the iconic backdrop of Fenway Park, North Carolina takes on UConn in this ACC-independent matchup, marking the Tar Heels 6th consecutive Bowl Season appearance. Running back Omarion Hampton has continued to be a standout for UNC, rushing for 1,660 yards and racking up 15 touchdowns. UConn enters the game with 8 wins for the first time since 2010, having made significant strides under head coach Jim Mora.
Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl
Boston College (7-5) vs. Nebraska (6-6)
Nebraska will make their first bowl game appearance since 2016 in the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium, where Boston College returns for their third appearance. Nebraska finished the regular season bowl eligible for the first time under second-year head coach Matt Rhule. The Huskers will be entering the post-season after a narrow loss to the Hawkeyes in Iowa City during the annual "Heroes Game”. The Eagles are coming off a two-game win streak and look to cap off Bill O’Brien’s first year as head coach with a win.
Isleta New Mexico Bowl
Louisiana (10-3) vs. TCU (8-4)
DEC 28 (SAT) 2:15
Both Louisiana and TCU make their first trips to the New Mexico Bowl, bringing fresh energy to the Albuquerque stage. Louisiana’s 10-win season speaks volumes, entering the postseason first in the Sun Belt West with notable wins against Wake Forest and Texas State. The Horned Frogs, coming off an 8-win season, aim to finish strong with a balanced offense and the leadership of QB Josh Hoover.
Pop-Tarts Bowl
Iowa State (10-3) vs. Miami (10-2)
DEC 28 (SAT)
The Hurricanes are back for their seventh Pop-Tarts Bowl appearance after a strong 9-0 start to the season. Meanwhile, Iowa State is fresh off one of their best seasons in school history and is eager to showcase their offensive firepower in this much-anticipated battle. Miami’s offense is led by QB Cam Ward, who has thrown for 4,123 passing yards and 36 touchdowns this season, making him one of the most prolific quarterbacks in college football this year. Iowa State looks to counter with its own dynamic playmakers, hoping to make a statement in this postseason matchup.
Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl
Miami (OH) (8-5) vs. Colorado State (8-4)
DEC 28 (SAT)
4:30 PM | CW NET.
Miami (OH) makes its Arizona Bowl debut with a solid 8-win season, finishing second in the MAC. Led by QB Brett Gabbert, who has thrown for over 2,500 yards and 21 TDs, the RedHawks’ offense has been a standout this year. Colorado State, returning for their second Arizona Bowl appearance, is coming off a third-place finish in the Mountain West Conference. The Rams have impressed with their dynamic offense and strong leadership under head coach Jay Norvell. This matchup promises an exciting showdown in the desert as both teams bring high-powered offenses to the field.
2024-25 BOWL SEASON MATCHUPS
Go Bowling Military Bowl
East Carolina (7-5) vs. NC State (6-6)
An all-Carolina showdown takes center stage in the Military Bowl. The Pirates come off a solid regular season, with notable wins, including a big victory against Temple led by key players Katin Houser and Rahjai Harris. Freshman QB CJ Bailey leads the Wolfpack in their 4th consecutive Bowl Season after coming off a big win against UNC. This matchup between the Pirates and Wolfpack promises to be a thrilling AAC-ACC clash. DEC
Valero Alamo Bowl
BYU (10-2) vs. Colorado (9-3)
BYU’s first trip to the Alamo Bowl will be a Big 12 Conference matchup against Colorado. The Buffaloes, are fueled by standout players Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, who will be playing their last college game. Hunter has been exceptional, with 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns, the second-most in the country. On top of his receiving prowess, he also excels as a cornerback, recording 31 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and 4 interceptions. Expect fireworks as both teams bring explosive offenses to one of Bowl Season’s most anticipated matchups.
Radiance Technologies
Independence Bowl
Marshall (10-3) vs. Army (11-1)
Army, ranked No. 22 in the final CFP rankings, heads to Shreveport with an impressive 11-1 record. This season is the first time that Army has been ranked over four consecutive weeks since 1958. Marshall, making their first appearance in the Independence Bowl, and 7th consecutive bowl game, is led by key players Braylon Braxton and A.J. Turner.
TransPerfect Music City Bowl
Iowa (8-4) vs. Missouri (9-3)
Iowa returns to Nashville for their second Music City Bowl appearance, bringing their signature defensive prowess and head coach Kirk Ferentz, the longest-tenured active head coach in FBS football. The Hawkeyes' offense has gained momentum, thanks to RB Kaleb Johnson, who has racked up 1,144 yards and 16 touchdowns this season under new offensive coordinator Tim Lester, averaging an impressive 7.8 yards per carry. Missouri, playing in their first Music City Bowl, looks to cap off a strong 9-win season, highlighted by notable victories over Oklahoma, Auburn, and Vanderbilt.
ReliaQuest Bowl
Alabama (9-3) vs. Michigan (7-5)
A rare three-loss season pegged the Crimson Tide as the odd team out in the CFP’s final bracket, but they’ll have a chance to avenge last season’s loss to the Wolverines in the national semifinals. Jalen Milroe and freshman receiver Ryan Williams spark the offense while the defense limited five opponents to 10 or fewer points. First-year coach Sherrone Moore leads the defending national champs to Tampa coming off a shocking upset of Ohio State.
Tony The Tiger Sun Bowl
Louisville (8-4) vs. Washington (6-6)
DEC 31 (TUE)
The Cardinals have won four of their last five games behind a stout defense and an offense that rides the arm of Tyler Shough and RBs Isaac Brown and Duke Watson. Washington lost to Michigan in last year’s title game and found life a bit rocky in its first trip through the Big Ten. Freshman Demond Williams, Jr., took over at quarterback for the last two games of the season. This will be Washington’s fifth appearance in the Sun Bowl but first-ever matchup with the Cardinals.
2024-25 BOWL SEASON MATCHUPS
Cheez-It Citrus Bowl
South Carolina (9-3) vs. Illinois (9-3)
The Gamecocks come to Orlando as one of the hottest teams in the country. The current six-game winning streak emphasized an offense that’s in the top 50 in the nation in scoring (31.6 ppg), rushing and total yards. Redshirt freshman QB LaNorris Sellers has racked up 17 touchdowns in the air and seven on the ground. Illinois won nine games for the first time since 2007. Receiver Pat Bryant tied a school record with 10 touchdown catches from QB Luke Altmyer who’s enjoyed a 21 touchdown/5 interception season.
A 2-4 start to Baylor’s season was wiped out by a current six-game winning streak where an explosive offense (34.7 ppg) led by quarterback Sawyer Robertson has run at full throttle. Robertson has thrown for 26 touchdowns including four in his last outing against Kansas. LSU played one of the country’s toughest schedules and watched a 6-1 start crumple late in the year. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has thrown for over 3,700 yards and owns some serious weapons in Kyren Lacy and Aaron Anderson. DEC 31 (TUE) 3
Kinder’s Texas Bowl
Baylor (8-4) vs. LSU (8-4)
DEC 31 (TUE)
3:30 PM | ESPN
Vrbo Fiesta Bowl
Penn St./SMU Winner vs. Boise St. (12-1)
The Broncos grabbed a CFP bye after running through the Mountain West with a perfect record. The only loss came in a 37-34 shootout to the country’s top-ranked team, the Oregon Ducks. Fans in Glendale will enjoy watching explosive running back Ashton Jeanty (29 TDs) who is in fourth place on the all-time rushing list and needs 132 more to pass Barry Sanders of Oklahoma State.
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl
Texas/Clemson Winner vs. Arizona St. (11-2)
The Sun Devils are this season’s feel-good story after being picked to finish last in the 16-team Big 12 and then sweeping to the conference crown. ASU rebounded from a 3-9 finish in head coach Kenny Dillingham’s first season. With Sam Leavitt under center the Devils only lost one time and RB Cam Skattebo is one of the best run/pass backs in the country.
2024-25 BOWL SEASON MATCHUPS
Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential
Ohio St./Tennessee Winner vs. Oregon (13-0)
The Ducks had zero problems running through their first season in the Big Ten. The perfect season has included wins over CFP entrants Penn State and Ohio State, plus a nonleague victory over Boise State. A dominant offense led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel (3,558 yds), receiver Tez Johnson (10 TD’s) and back Jordan James (15 TD’s). The Ducks defense allows just 17.8 points per game.
Allstate Sugar Bowl
Notre Dame/Indiana Winner vs. Georgia (11-2)
The Bulldogs navigated the always tough SEC to a coveted bye in the CFP. Two wins over Texas and one each over Tennessee and Clemson highlight the resume. Carson Beck (3,485 yds) was injured in the SEC Championship game but hopes to play in New Orleans. A balanced offensive attack is complimented by a defense loaded with talent, including corner Daylen Everette who won the MVP of the SEC title game. It’s tough to kill the ‘Dawgs — they’ve played 10 overtimes in their last two games.
TaxSlayer Gator Bowl
Duke (9-3) vs. Ole Miss (9-3)
JAN 2 (THU) 7:30 PM | ESPN
Ole Miss has shined thanks largely to the arm of AllAmerican QB Jaxson Dart over the last few seasons and hopes to close out his career in style. Dart broke Eli Manning’s school record for passing yards and owns an array of great targets led by Tre Harris. Watch out for defensive linemen Walter Nolen and Princely Umanmielen. Duke is bowling once again in coach Manny Diaz’s first season. The Blue Devils have six wins by seven points or less.
Duke’s Mayo Bowl
Minnesota (7-5) vs. Virginia Tech (6-6)
JAN 3 (FRI) 7:30 PM
The Hokies lost three of four down the stretch but hope to right the ship before a strong regional crowd in Charlotte. Pop Watson stepped in for two injured quarterbacks to lead the Hokies to a win over Virginia that punched their bowl ticket. End Antwaun Powell-Ryland has 16 sacks. The Golden Gophers lost three games by a field goal or less but hope to close the year with what would be an eighth straight bowl win.
SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
North Texas (6-6) vs. Texas State (7-5)
JAN 3 (FRI) 4 PM | ESPN
It’s a Battle of Texas at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. The Mean Green raced to an impressive 5-1 start but couldn’t sew up a bowl bid until a win over Temple in the regular season finale. Quarterback Chandler Morris finished fourth in the nation with 31 TD passes. Texas State finished behind Louisiana in the Sun Belt and are armed and dangerous. The Bobcats lost to CFP entry Arizona State by just a 31-28 score.
Bahamas Bowl
Buffalo (8-4) vs. Liberty (8-3)
JAN 4 (SAT) 11 AM | ESPN2
The Bulls enjoyed one of their best-ever seasons, finishing with four straight wins for the first time since 1986. It’s six Mid-American wins are the second-most in program history. Watch for quarterback C.J. Ogbonna. He’s accounted for 27 touchdowns, 19 in the air and 8 more on the ground. Liberty boasts an explosive offense behind QB Kaidon Salter and RB Quinton Cooley leads a rushing attack that’s third in the country (259.5 per game).
Engaging Fans Where They Are → Redefining the Ticketing Experience
The ticketing and live event industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by shifts in consumer behavior, technological advancements and the evolving landscape of live entertainment.
A recent Harris Poll study revealed that consumers spent an average of $802 on live events in the previous year, with $693 on sporting events. Consumers are going to great lengths to see their favorite sports team or artist. The study showed that three out of five Gen Zers and millennials will travel more than 50 miles for a live event.
The motivation behind this attendance surge is multifaceted. While 55% of Americans cite a need to unwind and release stress, a substantial 34% highlight a desire to feel more connected to their favorite artists and teams, with a similar 33% yearning to foster deeper connections with people.
LEVERAGING DATA AND ANALYTICS FOR SMARTER DISTRIBUTION
Understanding fan behavior and market trends is essential for optimizing pricing strategies and maximizing revenue. A crucial part of TFL's evolution is its investment in data and analytics, expanding its team and developing tools to analyze trends, predict demand and adjust pricing in real time.
TFL, a live event ticketing technology and distribution company, is leading the charge when it comes to innovations in the ticketing industry, serving teams, venues and rightsholders.
On average, consumers attended 14 live events last year, with Gen Z attending an impressive 24 events. However, with this demand comes a shift in purchasing behavior — fans are waiting longer to buy tickets, often just 24 to 48 hours before an event. This trend adds risk for ticket rightsholders, as factors such as player availability or weather conditions can affect sales.
At TFL, capturing fans at the right time is crucial for maximizing ticket sales, ensuring event success and enhancing fan experiences. By leveraging its own marketplace and aggregated ticket data, TFL can analyze purchase and pricing trends to gain insight into fan behavior. Ticketsforless.com is a marketplace with access to $6 billion in ticket inventory, providing insights across sports leagues and venues.
NFL, MLB and NCAA football ticket purchases are trending closer to game day, with up to 50% of secondary tickets being sold within seven days and nearly 15% being sold on game day.
Dustin Ray, senior vice president of business intelligence at TFL, highlights the importance of understanding the market: “Our data-driven approach helps us tailor our strategies to the individual needs of each team, ensuring we reach audiences at the right time.”
INNOVATING DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS TO REACH AUDIENCES
As the market evolves, discovering new distribution channels is essential to connecting with fans where they are. Open distribution and private label platforms present new opportunities for delivering tickets for teams and rightsholders. These alternative distribution channels, including closed-loop options, ensure tickets reach the right fans at the right time. This strategic focus enhanced the organization's technology and positioned it as a key player in ticketing technology and distribution with corporate loyalty and employee benefit channels.
This is particularly valuable in the secondary market, where TFLConnect, an open distribution tool, enables precise seat-level pricing, ensuring fairer prices for fans and more effective pricing for teams. This innovative solution gives insights into listings and sales, enabling real-time performance tracking and pricing adjustments to maximize revenue and attendance.
Another innovative distribution channel is the NIL Seats platform, which allows fans, donors, alumni and students to buy live event tickets and support their college or university's name, image and likeness program. Focusing on innovation extends beyond just technology; it involves creating strong partnerships to maximize revenue through alternative distribution channels and pricing strategies that align with consumer needs.
“TFL has been a tremendous long-term partner for our business. Their expertise in pricing, distribution and service has been instrumental in helping us exceed our ticket revenue goals.” Tyler Kirby, executive vice president of business development, Kansas City Chiefs.
TFL, a ticketing technology and distribution company with more than two decades of experience, has evolved from its traditional role to become a comprehensive technology and distribution partner for teams, brokers and venues. This shift is not about staying in the game — it's about leading the way with cutting-edge technology and by leveraging analytics. For more insights on consumer ticket trends, download our latest Harris Poll white paper, and visit TFLGroup.com to see how we can redefine the ticketing experience together.
Predict, Play and Win Big!
Bowl Season is excited to launch its new Pick ‘em Game, offering fans a chance to predict the outcomes of all 43 college football bowl games, including the new 12-team playoff. This year’s Pick‘Em Game offers an exciting twist, with participants ranking their picks on a confidence scale from 1 to 47, from their most confident to their least confident predictions. Players can create their own leagues with family, friends or coworkers, adding a personal and competitive touch to the experience.
THE REWARDS
The rewards for participation are impressive, with the grand prize being two tickets and airfare to the 2026 CFP National Championship Game. Additional prizes include a year of free coffee from Scooter’s Coffee, a copy of College Football 25 from EA Sports, and a free game of bowling for everyone who plays, courtesy of Go Bowling. Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan or just in it for the fun, the Bowl Season Pick ‘em Game offers an exciting way to engage with the action while competing for incredible prizes!
Play Here!
TUNE IN FOR BOWL SEASON ACTION
Bowl Season Radio delivers exclusive live play-by-play coverage of 21 featured Bowl Games on terrestrial radio nationwide and SiriusXM satellite radio. Stream these games live on In-Tune, Audacy, and The Varsity Network apps.
BOWL GAME WHEN WHERE
IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl
Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl
StaffDNA Cure Bowl
Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl
Myrtle Beach Bowl
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
GameAbove Sports Bowl
68 Ventures Bowl
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
Birmingham Bowl
Wasabi Fenway Bowl
Isleta New Mexico Bowl
Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl
Go Bowling Military Bowl
Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl
Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl
Kinder’s Texas Bowl
SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
Duke’s Mayo Bowl
Bahamas Bowl
East-West Shrine Bowl
Dec 14 (Sat), 9 PM
Dec 17 (Tue), 9 PM
Dec 20 (Fri), 12 PM
Dec 20 (Fri), 3:30 PM
Dec 23 (Mon), 11 AM
Dec 23 (Mon), 2:30 PM
Dec 26 (Thu), 2 PM
Dec 26 (Thu), 9 PM
Dec 27 (Fri), 12 PM
Cramton Bowl, Montgomery, AL
Toyota Stadium, Frisco, TX
Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
Brooks Stadium, Conway, SC
Albertsons Stadium, Boise, ID
Ford Field, Detroit, MI
Hancock Whitney Stadium, Mobile, AL
Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, TX
Dec 27 (Fri), 3:30 PM Protective Stadium, Birmingham, AL
Dec 28 (Sat), 11 AM Fenway Park, Boston, MA
Dec 28 (Sat), 2:15 PM
Dec 28 (Sat), 4:30 PM
Dec 28 (Sat), 5:45 PM
University Stadium, Albuquerque, NM
Arizona Stadium, Tucson, AZ
N-MC Memorial Stadium, Annapolis, MD
Dec 28 (Sat), 9:15 PM Independence Stadium, Shreveport, LA
Dec 31 (Tue), 2 PM
Dec 31 (Tue), 3:30 PM
Jan 3 (Fri), 4 PM
Jan 3 (Fri), 7:30 PM
Jan 4 (Sat), 11 AM
Jan 30 (Thu), 8 PM
Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, TX
NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, TX
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
Thomas A. Robinson Stadium, Nassau, Bahamas
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
A BOWL SEASON PODCAST
Dive into unforgettable college football moments and stories from legendary guests. Tune in now, and never miss a play.
BOWL SEASON
EP. 1
EP. 2
EP. 3
EP. 5
EP. 6 EP. 4
2024-25 BOWL SEASON SCHEDULE
