The excitement is palpable as the 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) kicks off! This season marks a significant change, with the CFP expanding to 12 teams, setting the stage for thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments on the gridiron. The seeds are set, and the first-round games are underway, bringing a fresh wave of anticipation for fans across the nation.
The new playoff format: A game changer
This year, the top four teams have earned first-round byes, automatically securing their spots in the quarterfinals. How does this affect the competition? It means that the remaining eight teams are set to battle it out in four first-round games, with the higher-seeded teams hosting the matchups in their home stadiums. This is a groundbreaking shift for the CFP, as playoff games have traditionally been held at neutral sites.
First-round matchups to watch
Fans can look forward to some electrifying matchups in the first round. Two games will be aired on TNT, a channel typically associated with the NBA but now stepping into the college football spotlight. The No. 11 SMU Mustangs will take on the No. 6 Penn State Nittany Lions, while the No. 12 Clemson Tigers face off against the No. 5 Texas Longhorns. These games promise to deliver high-stakes action and showcase the incredible talent within college football.
How to watch the games on TNT
With the excitement building, many fans are eager to know how they can catch all the action. While cable cutting is on the rise, several streaming services still include TNT in their lineups. The exact channel number may vary depending on your provider and location, but fear not! The Sporting News has you covered with all the details you need to tune in.
Streaming options for fans
If you don’t have access to TNT through your cable provider, there are still ways to watch the 2024 CFP first round for free online! Fubo TV is one of the best options, as it carries TNT in its channel lineup and offers a free trial for new users. Additionally, you might want to explore free trials from other popular streaming services like DirecTV Stream, Hulu with Live TV, or YouTube TV. Fubo is likely the easiest way to get immediate access, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.
Exciting game schedule
Mark your calendars! Here’s a quick look at the schedule for the first-round games airing on TNT:
| Date | Matchup | Time (ET) |
| Dec. 21 | SMU vs. Penn State | 12 p.m. |
| Dec. 21 | Clemson vs. Texas | 4 p.m. |
What to expect from the matchups
As the first round unfolds, fans can expect intense competition and thrilling plays. Each team will be looking to prove themselves and advance to the next stage of the playoffs. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere will be electric as these teams clash on the field. Will underdogs rise to the occasion, or will the higher seeds assert their dominance? That’s the beauty of college football—the unpredictability keeps fans on the edge of their seats!
The impact of home-field advantage
One of the most intriguing aspects of this year’s format is the home-field advantage for the higher-seeded teams. Playing in front of their home crowd can provide a significant boost, creating an environment that fuels the players’ performance. Fans will be eager to see how this plays out during the first round. Will the home teams leverage their support to secure victories, or will the visiting teams thrive under pressure?
As the 2024 College Football Playoff unfolds, the excitement and anticipation are at an all-time high. With new matchups, a fresh format, and the chance for thrilling upsets, this season promises to be one for the books. Whether you’re cheering for your alma mater or just tuning in for the love of the game, the first round of the CFP is sure to deliver unforgettable moments. Get ready to witness college football at its finest!
