In Miami Gardens, Florida, excitement is building for the upcoming 2025-26 College Football Playoff bracket. This season marks the second year of the playoff utilizing a 12-team format, providing more opportunities for teams to compete for the championship. The playoff games are set to take place from December 19, 2025, to January 19, 2026, with the schedule outlining key dates that fans should mark on their calendars.
The first round of the playoffs will kick off on December 19-20, leading into the quarterfinals scheduled for December 31 and January 1. After that, the semifinals are slated for January 8-9, culminating in the CFP National Championship Game on Monday, January 19, 2026. The championship game will take place right in the heart of Miami Gardens, a fitting backdrop for such an important event in college football.
Reflecting on the past season, the Michigan Wolverines completed a perfect 15-0 season, ultimately capturing their first national title since 1997 by defeating Washington with a score of 34-13 in the 2023-24 CFP National Championship Game. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy played a pivotal role in the victory, throwing for 140 yards and displaying notable athleticism with his longest run of the season at 22 yards.
Defensive back Will Johnson was recognized as the Defensive MVP after making a critical third quarter interception. Meanwhile, running back Blake Corum, who recorded 134 rushing yards and two touchdowns during the game, took home the Offensive MVP award. Corum’s performance also marked a milestone as he wrapped up his career with a total of 58 rushing touchdowns, setting a new school record.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh, in his ninth season with the program, celebrated a personal achievement as he obtained his first national championship title with the Wolverines. This victory also signifies the end of the traditional four-team playoff era, paving the way for the expansion to a more inclusive 12-team format starting next season.
Fans and teams alike are looking forward to what the new playoff structure will bring and how it will change the landscape of college football in the coming years.
