Atlanta, Georgia – A new chapter in college football is about to unfold as the road to the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship begins. This year’s championship will take place on January 20, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT, hosted in the impressive Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This stadium, which can hold up to 71,000 fans for football games, will also be the venue for Super Bowl LXII in 2028.
The NCAA has expanded the format for the championship, now featuring 12 teams instead of the traditional smaller pool. The new setup includes five highest-ranked conference champions and seven other selected teams chosen by the CFP selection committee. The final rankings will be published on Sunday, December 8. This expansion has also pushed back the championship game date by about 10 days compared to previous years, which frequently fell in early January.
In the first round, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will clash with the winner of the match between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Texas Longhorns. The progression through the playoff system is designed to keep the excitement high, as the four highest-ranked conference champions will have a bye week, heading straight to the quarterfinals.
Once the teams enter the knockout stages, games will be hosted at the stadium of higher-ranked competitors. Quarterfinals, semifinals, and then the final championship will be played in designated neutral venues, ensuring a fair battle for the title.
Unlike the NFL playoffs, the NCAA tournament’s system allows each team one possession per overtime period, ensuring a competitive spirit without sudden death. Fans looking to witness the action live will find ticket prices start around $1,158, with seats in the lower bowl estimated at $1,560. Broadcasted on ESPN and available for streaming on ESPN.com and ESPN+, this championship game promises to deliver thrilling college football action.
As the teams gear up for this historic championship, the stakes are high; teams advancing to the final can receive approximately $23 million. This new era in NCAA football not only marks a shift in the number of teams involved but also showcases the rich history, legendary teams, and unforgettable moments that continue to define the sport.
