As the holiday season approaches, college football fans are gearing up for one of the most exciting times of the year: bowl game season. With Week 15 on the horizon, college football teams are wrapping up their regular seasons, and the bowl matchups are coming into focus.
From the iconic New Year’s Six games to smaller but equally thrilling matchups, the bowl games offer something for every fan.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at the upcoming bowl game projections for Week 15, with predictions for the games taking place from December 27 to January 4.
These matchups feature some of the top teams in the nation and plenty of high-stakes drama, as well as a few under-the-radar games that promise excitement.
1. College Football Playoff Semifinals – December 30
Orange Bowl: No. 1 Georgia vs. No. 4 Ohio State Date: December 30
Prediction: Georgia 34, Ohio State 21
The College Football Playoff Semifinals kick off with a highly anticipated matchup between the top-ranked Georgia Bulldogs and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Georgia enters the game as the reigning national champion and looks poised to defend its title with a stout defense and efficient offense led by quarterback Stetson Bennett. Ohio State, however, will come to play after a challenging season, with quarterback C.J. Stroud hoping to lead his team past the Bulldogs’ defense.
Despite Ohio State’s offensive firepower, Georgia’s balanced attack and superior defense should be enough to advance to the National Championship game. Georgia’s defense, led by elite players like Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith, is expected to shut down Stroud and the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.
Fiesta Bowl: No. 2 Michigan vs. No. 3 TCU
Date: December 30
Prediction: Michigan 28, TCU 20
In the other semifinal, the Michigan Wolverines face off against the TCU Horned Frogs. Michigan enters as the Big Ten Champion and looks to continue its dominance, led by running back Blake Corum and a tough defense. TCU has had an incredible season, but they are underdogs in this matchup.
Michigan’s physicality in the trenches, combined with quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s efficient play, gives the Wolverines the edge. TCU will put up a fight, but Michigan’s superior depth and well-rounded game plan should carry them into the championship.
2. New Year’s Six Bowls
Peach Bowl: No. 5 Tennessee vs. No. 12 Penn State
Date: December 31
Prediction: Tennessee 38, Penn State 28
Tennessee, led by quarterback Hendon Hooker, has been one of the most explosive teams in the country this season. Penn State, while solid, struggles against teams with the speed and dynamic playmaking of the Volunteers. Tennessee’s offensive firepower will be too much for the Nittany Lions’ defense to handle, and they will secure a win in what should be a high-scoring affair.
Sugar Bowl: No. 8 Alabama vs. No. 9 Kansas State
Date: December 31
Prediction: Alabama 35, Kansas State 14
Alabama, despite some struggles this season, remains one of the most talented teams in the country, and Nick Saban’s squad will be fired up for this matchup. Kansas State had a great season and earned a New Year’s Six bid, but Alabama’s depth and overall talent will likely overwhelm the Wildcats in this contest. Bryce Young, Alabama’s star quarterback, will lead the way in what could be a big win for the Tide.
3. Under-the-Radar Bowl Games
Liberty Bowl: Arkansas vs. Kansas
Date: December 28
Prediction: Arkansas 31, Kansas 20
Arkansas has had an up-and-down season but boasts a physical running game and strong defense that will likely overpower Kansas in this matchup. Kansas, on the other hand, has had a breakthrough year, and quarterback Jalon Daniels will look to lead a potent offense. However, Arkansas’ defense and running back Rocket Sanders should control the game.
Citrus Bowl: Iowa vs. Kentucky
Date: January 1
Prediction: Iowa 24, Kentucky 21
This matchup features two teams that rely on strong defenses and conservative offensive approaches. Iowa’s defense, led by linebacker Jack Campbell, should be the difference-maker in this game, as they’ll stifle Kentucky’s offense and force turnovers. With both teams struggling offensively at times this season, expect a tight, low-scoring game with Iowa emerging victorious.
4. Festive Bowl Games
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Outback Bowl: Minnesota vs. Texas Tech
Date: January 1
Prediction: Minnesota 27, Texas Tech 20
Minnesota has been one of the more consistent teams in the Big Ten this season, with a strong running game and solid defense. Texas Tech, while talented offensively, will have a difficult time keeping up with the Golden Gophers’ physical style of play. Minnesota’s defense will step up in this one, securing a win in a fairly competitive game.
Music City Bowl: Ole Miss vs. Illinois
Date: December 30
Prediction: Ole Miss 35, Illinois 24
Ole Miss brings a high-powered offense led by quarterback Jaxson Dart and running back Quinshon Judkins. Illinois’ defense has been strong this season, but Ole Miss’ speed and offensive versatility will be difficult to contain. Look for Ole Miss to take control of this game and win comfortably.
Conclusion
Week 15 marks the beginning of a thrilling bowl season, with many exciting matchups from December 27 to January 4. The College Football Playoff Semifinals are set to feature high-stakes action between some of the nation’s top teams, while the New Year’s Six and under-the-radar games will provide even more excitement.
Whether you’re cheering for a top-tier team or an underdog story, the bowl games are always filled with drama, and 2024 will be no exception. Enjoy the holiday season and get ready for some unforgettable college football action!