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CFP Unveils 2026-2027 Playoff Schedule: Key Dates Inside

2/5/2026

Summary

CFP Reveals Schedule

The College Football Playoff (CFP) announced the schedule for the 2026–2027 quarterfinals and semifinals.
Quarterfinals begin December 30, 2026 at Fiesta Bowl, with January 1, 2027 games at Cotton Bowl, Peach Bowl, and Rose Bowl.
Semifinals occur January 14 and 15, 2027 at the Orange Bowl and Sugar Bowl.
Championships are January 25, 2027 in Las Vegas and January 24, 2028 in New Orleans, with a two-week break between rounds.

Summary

Sugar Bowl Hosts CFP

The Allstate Sugar Bowl will host a College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinal on January 15, 2027.
This marks the Sugar Bowl's first CFP Semifinal under the expanded 12-team format.
In 2027, the Sugar Bowl will also host a CFP Quarterfinal on December 31, 2027.
The Sugar Bowl has previously drawn over 122 million viewers and generated over $1 billion in economic impact.
Rich Clark, Executive Director of the CFP, emphasized maintaining competitive balance and enhancing the fan experience.

History

Historical Context

Established in 2014, the College Football Playoff (CFP) replaced the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) to create a more equitable postseason format for NCAA Division I FBS football. The inaugural CFP attracted over 122 million viewers and generated over $1 billion in economic impact. Starting in 2024, the playoff will expand to 12 teams, enhancing opportunities for diverse conferences and increasing fan engagement.

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CFP Reveals Schedule

The College Football Playoff (CFP) announced the schedule for the 2026–2027 quarterfinals and semifinals.
Quarterfinals begin December 30, 2026 at Fiesta Bowl, with January 1, 2027 games at Cotton Bowl, Peach Bowl, and Rose Bowl.
Semifinals occur January 14 and 15, 2027 at the Orange Bowl and Sugar Bowl.
Championships are January 25, 2027 in Las Vegas and January 24, 2028 in New Orleans, with a two-week break between rounds.

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