THE MATCHUP
TO BE ANNOUNCEDPlayoff winner
Playoff winner
The matchup will be set by the preceding playoff results. The announced date and venue are shown here.
SELECTION CONTEXTOrange Bowl winner vs. Sugar Bowl winner
THE GAME IN CONTEXT
What to know.
The road through the 2026–27 College Football Playoff ends at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
The January 25 national championship matches the Orange Bowl winner with the Sugar Bowl winner. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC and ESPN.
BEFORE WE MAKE A PICK
The analysis watchlist.
Roster availability
Quarterback status, verified opt-outs, and other availability changes will be part of the matchup research.
Matchup efficiency
Opponent-adjusted offense, defense, line play, and special teams will provide the on-field context.
The setting
This game is scheduled for an indoor venue. The actual playing surface and travel remain relevant.
What could change
New information can shift both a forecast and its uncertainty. Published projections will retain their original evidence cutoff.
A forecast follows the team research.
No game prediction is published in this snapshot. The first preview will follow confirmed participants and current team inputs.
How our analysis worksCHECK THE DETAILS
Official sources.
Information checked November 5, 2026. Schedules are subject to change.