College football bowl games: Who plays today Thursday December 28? | Teams, times and matchups

Here is a comprehensive list of all the NCAA Football Bowl Season games that are scheduled for today. The list includes the game’s premiere, the time the game will start, and the venue where the game will be played. It’s a great resource for anyone who wants to keep track of all the football action happening today.

Wasabi Fenway Bowl: SMU vs Boston College

The Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Boston College (BC) are preparing for their most important football game of the season, with SMU Mustangs being the favorites. Both teams have undergone substantial roster changes as they hit the transfer portal. BC has lost 15 players, affecting their running back depth and key defensive positions. SMU, on the other hand, has lost 10 players but seems to be in a more stable position. Standout quarterback Kevin Jennings is stepping into the starting role after Preston Stone’s unfortunate leg injury. Jennings, known for his ability to pass and run, displayed his skill level in the last game against Tulane.

The Mustangs finished the season strong, securing nine straight wins, including a resounding 26-14 victory over Tulane in their conference championship game. Their offense has been dominant, averaging over 40 points per game, and with a robust running game that produced 180+ yards per game on the ground. SMU has a multi-dimensional threat with three running backs, each boasting 80+ carries and an average of over five yards per carry.

Defensively, SMU has been exceptional, allowing only 17.4 points per game, tallying 16 takeaways, and ranking in the top 10 for pass success since October. Their ability to stifle both the run and the pass poses a formidable challenge for BC.

BC is entering the matchup with three consecutive losses, ending a once-promising season on a sour note. Their offense, led by quarterback Thomas Castellanos, relies heavily on the run game. However, the team struggled, scoring less than 22 points in their last five games. Castellanos, while a threat on the ground, faced challenges against stronger opponents, falling short in several crucial games.

BC’s defense, allowing an average of 29.5 points per game, faces a challenging task against SMU’s high-scoring offense. The contrast in form between the two teams suggests a problematic situation for BC, even with the home crowd advantage at Fenway Park.

Watch entire NCAA Collegiate Football Bowl Season on FuboTV (free trial available)

Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl: Rutgers vs Miami

In the iconic Yankee Stadium, the Miami Hurricanes and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights are gearing up to face each other in the Pinstripe Bowl. The Miami Hurricanes have had a challenging season with seven wins, while the Rutgers Scarlet Knights is the all-resilient team led by the experienced Greg Schiano.

The transfer portal has impacted players’ rosters as the teams enter the fray. Rutgers has largely remained intact despite losing a few pieces to injuries and one opt-out in defensive back Max Melton. Quarterback Gavin Wims is expected to lead the charge, showcasing the team’s resilience under Schiano, who boasts an impressive 51-1 record against the spread in the last seven bowl games.

Miami faces some key losses, with Tyler Van Dyke already confirmed to join Wisconsin and receiver Colby Young also departing. The starting quarterback position sees a shift with Emory Williams injured, paving the way for Jakari Brown to take the reins. Miami’s defense takes a hit with the opt-outs of safeties James Williams and Cameron Kinchin, along with defensive tackle Leonard Taylor.

Miami’s journey this season has been marred by moments of self-sabotage, as seen in losses against Georgia Tech, NC State, Florida State, and Louisville. Despite the talent on their roster, the Hurricanes have struggled to find consistency. In contrast, Rutgers, under Schiano, maintains a disciplined approach, avoiding self-inflicted wounds.

Rutgers’ losses this season came against formidable opponents like Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio State, Iowa, and Penn State, and victories against Indiana, Michigan State, Wagner, and Virginia Tech highlight Rutgers’ strength against teams of similar or lower standing.

Pop-Tarts Bowl: NC State vs Kansas State

Kansas State enters the upcoming contest with an impressive 8-4 record, shedding its status as a mere novelty act. The team has been consistently strong under Bill Snyder and has reemerged as a formidable force in college football. In contrast, NC State has had a season of ups and downs, boasting considerable talent but grappling with losses in the transfer portal, particularly on the offensive line.

The importance of the trenches comes to the forefront, with the absence of key offensive linemen impacting NC State’s dynamics. The saying “games are won and lost in the trenches” rings true, especially for a team like NC State, where protecting the quarterback is paramount. The departure of key players in this crucial area poses a significant challenge for the Wolfpack.

Kansas State, on the other hand, relies on a well-established system, strategy, and scheme that have proven effective over the years. Their offensive approach, reminiscent of a hidden ball trick on every play, requires discipline to defend. NC State’s ability to counter such deception remains in question, particularly considering their somewhat anemic offensive performance this season.

Kansas State’s resilience is evident in its ability to execute its scheme effectively, even with backup players. The team has demonstrated adaptability, successfully integrating different pieces into their offensive puzzle. While NC State grapples with uncertainties, including the portal departure of their starting quarterback, Kansas State’s track record suggests that they can overcome such challenges.

Watch entire NCAA Collegiate Football Bowl Season on FuboTV (free trial available)

Valero Alamo Bowl: Arizona vs Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Sooners and the Arizona Wildcats will face off in the Alamo Bowl at the Alamo Dome.

Oklahoma has a 10-2 record, while Arizona has a 9-3 record. Arizona will likely be relatively intact, while Oklahoma faces challenges such as the departure of key players and changes to the offensive line.

The Sooners aim to maintain their offensive prowess with the help of five-star recruit Jackson Arnold as their new starting quarterback. Arizona enters the bowl game with the ambition to secure their 10th win under head coach Jed Fish’s leadership.