The College Football Playoff (CFP) is in full swing, and the excitement is palpable as teams battle it out for the national championship. The 2025-26 season marks the second year of the expanded 12-team playoff format, adding more thrilling matchups and opportunities for underdog teams to shine. With the first round already underway, fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes and the road to the championship game.
The CFP bracket for 2025 was announced on December 7, revealing a diverse field of competitors. The top four seeds—Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan, and Florida—earned byes, setting the stage for intense First Round action. Meanwhile, the remaining eight teams are vying for their spots in the Quarterfinals. The first round games are being played on campus, adding a home-field advantage element to the mix.
First Round matchups have already kicked off, with notable games including #10 Miami vs. #7 Texas A&M and #9 Penn State vs. #6 Washington. These games, played on the home fields of the higher-seeded teams, promise to be nail-biters. Favorites like Texas A&M and Penn State are expected to leverage their home-field advantage.
Looking ahead, the Quarterfinal Round is set for December 28-29, featuring high-stakes games that will determine the semifinalists. The top seeds, including Georgia and Ohio State, will enter the fray, adding even more intrigue to the competition.
The Semifinal Round is scheduled for January 4, 2026, with the Championship Game slated for January 13, 2026. These pivotal matches will be broadcast live on major networks, ensuring that fans won't miss a moment of the action.
The CFP schedule is meticulously planned to maximize excitement and engagement. The first two rounds will keep fans on the edge of their seats with intense, high-stakes matchups. As the competition intensifies, the semifinal and championship games promise to be epic showdowns, with the best teams vying for ultimate glory.
In summary, the 2025-26 College Football Playoff is shaping up to be a thrilling season. With the expanded 12-team format, fans can expect more drama, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable moments. As the playoffs unfold, keep an eye on the CFP bracket and CFP schedule to stay updated on the latest scores, results, and matchups.