It is a different kind of bowl season in 2024-25. With 35 bowl games outside the 12-team College Football Playoff, this year’s postseason promises to be as thrilling as ever. However, unpredictability reigns supreme. Coaching changes, the transfer portal, and player opt-outs can swiftly alter the landscape of any matchup.
Will Coach Prime Influence Bowl Game Participation?
One of the most intriguing storylines this bowl season is whether Coach Prime, Deion Sanders, will change the trend of players opting out of bowl games. He has announced that both Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter will play for No. 23 Colorado against No. 17 BYU in the Valero Alamo Bowl. Could this set a precedent for more players choosing to participate in bowl games? After all, bowl games mean something different to every player and team, but they are never meaningless.
Regular Season Performance and Bowl Predictions
As we gear up for the bowl season, let’s reflect on the regular season. We picked all the matchups involving teams in the AP Top 25 and finished with a solid S/U record of 195-59, alongside an ATS mark of 127-127. Our goal is to improve upon that 50% win rate during bowl season. We will update our picks to reflect any changes due to the transfer portal and player opt-outs, but for now, here are our predictions for the postseason, including every bowl game and the College Football Playoff’s first round.
Exciting Bowl Matchups Ahead
- Salute to Veterans Bowl: South Alabama (-9.5) vs. Western Michigan
Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m., ESPN
South Alabama coach Major Applewhite led the Jaguars to a bowl game after a 6-6 season, and they should find success against a Western Michigan defense that ranked 109th in the FBS in scoring defense. Freshman running back Fluff Bothwell, who has racked up 832 yards and 13 TDs, will be a key player to watch.
Pick: South Alabama wins 38-21 and COVERS the spread.
- Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl: No. 25 Memphis (-3) vs. West Virginia
Tuesday, Dec. 17, 9 p.m., ESPN
After firing Neal Brown, West Virginia will be led by an interim coach into the Frisco Bowl. Quarterback Garrett Greene struggled with interceptions this season, which could lead to a high-scoring affair. Memphis boasts a dynamic duo with Seth Henigan (3,208 yards, 23 TDs) and Mario Anderson (1,292 yards, 17 TDs).
Pick: Memphis wins 29-27 but FAILS TO COVER the spread.
Key Bowl Predictions
- Boca Raton Bowl: James Madison (-7) at Western Kentucky
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 5:30 p.m., ESPN
James Madison is on the hunt for its first bowl win in school history. The Dukes lost their last two games, while Western Kentucky suffered a significant loss in the Conference-USA championship. Expect a closely contested game, as both teams are looking to prove themselves.
Pick: James Madison wins 34-31 but FAILS TO COVER the spread.
- R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl: Georgia Southern (-5.5) vs. Sam Houston
Thursday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m., ESPN
Sam Houston is making its first bowl appearance under second-year coach K.C. Keller. Georgia Southern seeks its first bowl victory in three attempts with Clay Helton at the helm. Expect Sam Houston’s defense to play a pivotal role in this matchup.
Pick: Sam Houston wins 27-26 in an UPSET.
More Bowl Game Insights
- Lockheed Armed Forces Bowl: Oklahoma (-8.5) vs. Navy
Friday, Dec. 27, 12 p.m., ESPN
The Sooners’ defense, led by Danny Stutsman, has been impressive, allowing just 2.9 yards per rushing attempt this season. Meanwhile, Navy’s quarterback Braxton Woodson has shown flashes of brilliance. This game could be a battle of wills.
Pick: Oklahoma wins 27-14 and COVERS the spread.
- Valero Alamo Bowl: No. 23 Colorado (-2.5) vs. No. 17 BYU
Saturday, Dec. 28, 7:30 p.m., ABC
With Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter committed to playing, Colorado is poised to make a statement. The Buffaloes have a solid turnover ratio, while BYU has proven to be a tough opponent. This matchup promises to be thrilling.
Pick: Colorado wins 34-24 and COVERS the spread.
Looking Ahead to the College Football Playoff
As we transition to the College Football Playoff, excitement is in the air! The first round features some compelling matchups.
- First-round game: No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame (-7.5)
Friday, Dec. 20, 8 p.m., ABC
Indiana’s defense will be put to the test against a potent Notre Dame rushing attack. Can the Hoosiers keep their dream season alive? Expect a tight contest!
Pick: Notre Dame wins 28-24 but FAILS TO COVER the spread.
- First-round game: No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State (-8.5)
Saturday, Dec. 21, 12 p.m., TNT
SMU is eager to prove its worth against a formidable Penn State defense. Will the Mustangs’ run defense hold up? This one could go either way!
Pick: Penn State wins 31-20 and COVERS the spread.
The bowl season is upon us, and with it comes the thrill of competition, the unpredictability of outcomes, and the hope of glory for every team involved. Whether you’re rooting for your alma mater or just looking for exciting football, this postseason promises to deliver unforgettable moments. So grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for a wild ride!
