Penn State and Notre Dame are gearing up for an exciting showdown in Miami this January, as both teams have earned their spots in the Orange Bowl for the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. This matchup is not just another game; it’s a clash of two storied programs, each with a rich history and a fervent fan base.
Historic Rivalry Resurfaces
For fans who remember the glory days of the ’80s, this game brings back memories of national championships and fierce competition. Penn State and Notre Dame have faced each other numerous times, with their most recent encounters in 2006 and 2007 resulting in a split of victories. The rivalry is tightly contested, with each team boasting nine wins against the other. As they prepare for the Orange Bowl, the stakes are high: the first team to reach ten wins in this historic rivalry will not only claim bragging rights but also advance one step closer to the coveted national championship.
Road to the Orange Bowl
Both teams have proven their mettle in the playoffs. The No. 6 Penn State Beavers and the No. 7 Notre Dame Irish made headlines by defeating formidable opponents in the quarterfinals. Penn State triumphed over No. 3 Boise State with a convincing 31-14 victory, while Notre Dame shocked the world by taking down No. 2 Georgia in a thrilling 23-20 matchup. These victories were not just impressive; they marked a remarkable turn of events, as every team that received a first-round bye in the CFP was eliminated.
Game Details
Fans eager to witness this epic clash will be able to do so on Thursday, January 9, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The game is set to kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET. With both teams riding high on their recent successes, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Ticket Information
If you’re looking to be part of this historic event, tickets for the Penn State vs. Notre Dame game in the 2025 Orange Bowl are available now. Prices start at around $200, with lower bowl seating beginning at $300 for those seeking premium views. Given the excitement surrounding this matchup, ticket prices are unlikely to drop as the game date approaches. Fans are encouraged to secure their passes early to avoid missing out on this unforgettable experience.
Seating Map and Venue
For those planning to attend, understanding the seating layout at Hard Rock Stadium is essential. The venue is known for its vibrant atmosphere, and fans can expect an electric crowd as two of college football’s most passionate fan bases come together.
(StubHub)
Playoff Schedule Recap
To appreciate the journey that brought these teams to the Orange Bowl, let’s take a look at their playoff performances:
First Round Results
| Date | Game | Location | Time (ET) | Tickets |
| Fri., Dec. 20 | No. 7 Notre Dame 27, No. 10 Indiana 17 | South Bend, Ind. | 8 p.m. | – |
| Sat., Dec. 21 | No. 6 Penn State 38, No. 11 SMU 10 | State College, Pa. | 12 p.m. | – |
| Sat., Dec. 21 | No. 5 Texas 38, No. 12 Clemson 24 | Austin, Texas | 4 p.m. | – |
| Sat., Dec. 21 | No. 8 Ohio State 42, No. 9 Tennessee 17 | Columbus, Ohio | 8 p.m. | – |
Quarterfinal Highlights
| Date | Game | Location | Time (ET) | Tickets |
| Tues., Dec. 31 | No. 6 Penn State 31, No. 3 Boise State 14 | Fiesta Bowl | 7:30 p.m. | – |
| Wed., Jan. 1 | No. 5 Texas 39, No. 4 Arizona State (2OT) | Peach Bowl | 1 p.m. | – |
| Wed., Jan. 1 | No. 8 Ohio State 41, No. 1 Oregon 21 | Rose Bowl | 5 p.m. | – |
| Wed., Jan. 2* | No. 7 Notre Dame 23, No. 2 Georgia | Sugar Bowl | 4 p.m. | – |
Upcoming Semifinals
| Date | Game | Location | Time (ET) | Tickets |
| Thurs., Jan. 9 | No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 7 Notre Dame | Orange Bowl | 7:30 p.m. | Buy now |
| Fri., Jan. 10 | No. 5 Texas vs. No. 8 Ohio State | Cotton Bowl | 7:30 p.m. | Buy now |
The Final Countdown
As the clock ticks down to the Orange Bowl, excitement is palpable. Will Penn State or Notre Dame emerge victorious? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this game will be one for the ages, showcasing the best of college football. Fans are encouraged to join in the festivities, as the atmosphere in Miami promises to be electric. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or watching from home, this is a game you won’t want to miss!
