Three more college football bowl games are on the Tuesday docket as the new year draws ever nearer.
The day’s slate features a couple of Big Ten squads in action in their respective opponents’ home states. One will be in SEC country, while the other faces Big 12 opposition. But before the power conference representatives take the field, a matchup of so-called mid-major squads gets a brief turn in the spotlight in the matinee.
Here’s a breakdown of the trio of contests slated for the penultimate day of 2025. Yes, we’re obligated to use the word penultimate whenever possible – it’s in our contract.
Independence Bowl: Coastal Carolina vs. Louisiana Tech
Time/TV: 2 p.m. ET, ESPN in Shreveport, La.
Why watch: The Tuesday tripleheader kicks off with yet another clash between representatives of the Sun Belt and Conference USA. The Chanticleers will be led by interim coach Jeremiah Johnson before Ryan Beard fully takes charge after his arrival from Missouri State ahead of next season. Given their passing issues all year, they’ll likely count on RB Ja’Vin Simpkins and more mobile QB Samari Collier to mount drives. If Collier is unable to play due to injury, the job will likely fall to Tad Hudson. The Bulldogs have been only slightly more successful in the passing game, but QB Trey Kukuk directed victories starting Tech’s last two contests.
Why it could disappoint: Some of the Chanticleers are in the portal, but other players might be auditioning for future roles. The Bulldogs should have the edge in crowd support and interest level.
Music City Bowl: No. 23 Tennessee vs. Illinois
Time/TV: 5:30 p.m. ET, ESPN in Nashville, Tenn.
Why watch: The Volunteers fell short of their bid to return to the College Football Playoff but at least get to play their final game in front of a home-state crowd. The Fighting Illini, who also spent time in the US LBM Coaches Poll Top 25 during the season but couldn’t crack the Big Ten’s top tier, should provide a suitable matchup. Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar stepped into a challenging situation and did what he could, but the SEC’s most accomplished defenses were too much to overcome. His primary playmakers should be WR Braylon Staley after Chris Brazzell opted out of the game. QB Luke Altmyer had similar issues as Aguilar at Illinois, though he took better care of the ball despite sketchy ground support. His main deep threat is WR Hank Beatty, who is also a dangerous punt returner.
Why it could disappoint: The Vols’ no-show in their regular-season finale against Vanderbilt raises serious questions about their mindset heading into their bowl game. The Illini were on the short end of a few blowouts themselves, so things could get sideways for them as well.
Alamo Bowl: No. 16 Southern California vs. TCU
Time/TV: 9 p.m. ET, ESPN in San Antonio, Texas.
Why watch: The Trojans were realistically behind the proverbial playoff eight ball after their early setback at Illinois, but for the most part they won the games they were supposed to. TCU also had some nice results but also some curiously uneven performances that had their fans frustrated for large portions of the fall. Unfortunately for the viewers, the most recognizable names will not be participating as USC WRs Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane are prepping for the draft and Horned Frogs QB Josh Hoover is transferring. Trojans QB Jayden Maiava will need to find some new targets, while TCU turns to backup Ken Seals, who has attempted just six passes all season but completed four of them.
Why it could disappoint: The Horned Frogs figure to be at more of a personnel disadvantage. If TCU’s defense can’t get stops early, it might be a long night.
