2025-26 College Football Playoff Schedule: Dates, TV Channels, Locations
The College Football Playoff (CFP) for the 2025-26 season will feature an exciting schedule under its 12-team format. The competition will kick off on December 19, 2025, and culminate with the national championship game on January 19, 2026.
2025-26 College Football Playoff Schedule
The playoff will unfold over a series of key dates:
- First Round: December 19-20, 2025
- Quarterfinals: December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026
- Semifinals: January 8-9, 2026
- National Championship Game: January 19, 2026
Key Game Details
Below are the specifics for the championship game and semifinal matchups:
- National Championship Game:
- Date: January 19, 2026
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
- Time: 7:30 PM (ET)
- Broadcast: ESPN, WatchESPN
- Semifinals:
- Thursday, January 8, 2026
- Friday, January 9, 2026
Recent and Upcoming Championship Locations
Here is a quick look at past CFP National Championship locations leading up to 2026:
| Year | Champion vs. Runner-Up | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Ohio State vs. Oregon | Arlington, Texas |
| 2016 | Alabama vs. Clemson | Glendale, Arizona |
| 2017 | Clemson vs. Alabama | Tampa, Florida |
| 2021 | Alabama vs. Ohio State | Miami Gardens, Florida |
| 2026 | To Be Determined | Miami Gardens, Florida |
The 2025-26 College Football Playoff promises to be a thrilling season filled with intense competition and memorable moments. Fans should mark their calendars for these important dates, as college football reaches its peak excitement.