The Cactus Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, December 26 at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe. Kickoff is 5:30 p.m. Arizona time, 7:30 p.m. Eastern, on ABC.
A different venue for this edition
Fiesta Sports Foundation’s announcement pairs a refreshed identity with the return to Arizona State’s stadium. The selected Big Ten and Big 12 teams will play in Tempe, so current venue information matters when planning a visit or preparing an on-field preview.
The bowl traces its beginnings to 1989. Its 2026 setting supplies a new chapter, while the selected teams will determine the matchup story.
The analysis follows the evidence
An outdoor Tempe game calls for a fresh look at the actual field, game-week weather, and each team’s preparation. Current rosters and coaching roles will also matter. Earlier editions can provide historical context, but current matchup evidence will carry the prediction research.
The game guide links the organizer’s announcement and ticket information so fans and reporters can verify the details as bowl week approaches.
Sources & further reading
Research checked November 5, 2026. This guide separates confirmed announcements from details still pending.