Cotton Bowl
2026
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2025 Cotton Bowl: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Miami Hurricanes – CFP Quarterfinal Showdown
The 90th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic delivers one of the most anticipated matchups in college football history. On New Year's Eve, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the #2 Ohio State Buckeyes (12-1) will battle the #10 Miami Hurricanes (11-2) at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas for a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 PM CT (7:30 PM ET) and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
For fans seeking authentic Cotton Bowl 2025 tickets, you've come to the right place. Our trusted marketplace connects you with verified sellers offering competitive prices for this New Year's Eve showdown between two of college football's most storied programs. Every listing includes all fees upfront – no hidden costs at checkout.
A Historic Rivalry Renewed: Defending Champions vs. 'The U'
This matchup revives one of college football's greatest rivalries. Ohio State and Miami last met in a bowl game at the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, where the Buckeyes defeated the Hurricanes 31-24 in double overtime to claim the national championship – one of the most controversial and thrilling title games ever played. Now, over two decades later, these powerhouses meet again with a CFP Semifinal berth on the line.
The Ohio State Buckeyes enter as defending national champions, looking to become the first team to win back-to-back titles since Alabama in 2011-12. The Miami Hurricanes are making their CFP debut and have already proven they belong, grinding out a gritty 10-3 road victory over Texas A&M in the First Round – their first CFP/New Year's Six bowl win and first 11-win season since 2003.
Ohio State: The Defending Champions Seek Another Crown
The Buckeyes are led by sophomore quarterback Julian Sayin, who has authored one of the most remarkable seasons in college football history. Sayin leads the nation with a 78.4% completion rate – on pace to shatter the NCAA's all-time single-season record of 77.4% set by Oregon's Bo Nix in 2023. He's thrown for 3,323 yards, 31 touchdowns, and just 6 interceptions while earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors and becoming a Heisman Trophy finalist.
Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has become a CFP fixture, appearing for the seventh time overall and second consecutive season. The Buckeyes' lone loss came to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game, but their dominant regular season – including wins over #1 Texas and Penn State – secured them the #2 seed and a first-round bye.
Miami: Carson Beck's Redemption Tour
The Hurricanes are led by quarterback Carson Beck, who transferred from Georgia after suffering a season-ending elbow injury in last year's SEC Championship. Beck, a Comeback Player of the Year semifinalist, has thrown for 3,175 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while leading Miami to a 10-2 regular season record under head coach Mario Cristobal.
In Miami's CFP First Round win at Texas A&M, Beck and the Hurricanes showcased the gritty, physical style that has defined their season. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. and the offensive line dominated the line of scrimmage in a defensive battle, while the defense held the Aggies to just 3 points. Now Beck faces his former Georgia teammate Gunner Stockton's new rivals as he chases a national championship with his new team.
What Is the Cotton Bowl?
The Cotton Bowl is one of college football's most prestigious bowl games, first played in 1937 at the Cotton Bowl stadium in Dallas. Now hosted at the state-of-the-art AT&T Stadium, the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic has featured countless legendary matchups and national championship-deciding games throughout its 90-year history. The game has served as a CFP Semifinal four times (2015, 2018, 2021, 2025) and now hosts its first CFP Quarterfinal.
2025 Cotton Bowl Game Details
- Matchup: #2 Ohio State Buckeyes (12-1) vs. #10 Miami Hurricanes (11-2)
- Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 (New Year's Eve)
- Kickoff: 6:30 PM CT / 7:30 PM ET
- Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
- Broadcast: ESPN
- Game Type: College Football Playoff Quarterfinal (90th Cotton Bowl Classic)
- Stakes: Winner advances to CFP Semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl on January 8
Key Players to Watch in the 2025 Cotton Bowl
Ohio State Buckeyes
- Julian Sayin (QB): 279-of-356 passing, 3,323 yards, 31 TDs, 6 INTs – NCAA-record 78.4% completion rate
- Jeremiah Smith (WR): 1,086 receiving yards, 13 touchdowns – Biletnikoff Award winner
- Blake Jackson (RB): 1,035 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns
Miami Hurricanes
- Carson Beck (QB): 277-of-372 passing, 3,175 yards, 26 TDs, 10 INTs – Former Georgia starter
- Mark Fletcher Jr. (RB): 857 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns
- Marcus Toney (WR): 992 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns
How to Get Cotton Bowl 2025 Tickets
Securing your spot at this historic New Year's Eve showdown is easy when you follow these simple steps:
- Browse Available Tickets: View all Cotton Bowl 2025 ticket listings above, organized by section and price.
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- Select Your Seats: Choose the section and seats that fit your budget and preferences at AT&T Stadium.
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AT&T Stadium: Jerry World Hosts the CFP Quarterfinal
AT&T Stadium, affectionately known as "Jerry World," is one of the most impressive venues in sports. Home of the Dallas Cowboys, this $1.3 billion masterpiece features the world's largest column-free interior and a massive video board that spans from 20-yard line to 20-yard line. Important venue information for fans:
- Capacity: Approximately 80,000 for football (expandable to 100,000+)
- Clear Bag Policy: Only clear plastic bags (12" x 6" x 12"), one-gallon freezer bags, or small clutch purses (4.5" x 6.5") are permitted
- Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011
- Parking: Multiple lots available; advance purchase recommended
Quick Answers About the 2025 Cotton Bowl
Who is playing in the 2025 Cotton Bowl? The #2 Ohio State Buckeyes face the #10 Miami Hurricanes in a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal rematch of their legendary 2003 Fiesta Bowl.
When is the 2025 Cotton Bowl? Wednesday, December 31, 2025 (New Year's Eve), with kickoff at 6:30 PM Central Time (7:30 PM Eastern).
What channel is the Cotton Bowl on? The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
Where is the Cotton Bowl played? AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas – home of the Dallas Cowboys.
What is at stake? The winner advances to the CFP Semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl on January 8 to face the winner of the Rose Bowl (Indiana vs. Alabama).
Frequently Asked Questions About Cotton Bowl 2025 Tickets
Are Cotton Bowl 2025 tickets still available?
Yes, Cotton Bowl 2025 tickets are available through our verified resale marketplace. With Ohio State and Miami fans eager to attend this CFP Quarterfinal matchup between two historic programs, demand is extremely high. We recommend securing your tickets as soon as possible to get the best selection and pricing.
How much are Cotton Bowl 2025 tickets?
Cotton Bowl ticket prices vary based on section, row, and proximity to the field at AT&T Stadium. Upper-level seats typically start at more affordable price points, while lower-level and premium seating options command higher prices. All prices on our site include fees so you see the total cost upfront.
Is this an official Cotton Bowl ticket website?
We are a trusted independent ticket resale marketplace, not the official Cotton Bowl website. We connect fans with verified sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices. For official information about the Cotton Bowl, visit the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic's official website at cottonbowl.com.
What time does the 2025 Cotton Bowl start?
The 2025 Cotton Bowl kicks off at 6:30 PM Central Time (7:30 PM Eastern) on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. This New Year's Eve time slot makes it perfect for celebrating the new year after the game in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
How do I get to AT&T Stadium for the Cotton Bowl?
AT&T Stadium is located at 1 AT&T Way in Arlington, Texas, approximately 20 miles west of Dallas and 15 miles east of Fort Worth. The venue is accessible by car with extensive parking options, rideshare services, and the TEXRail train to downtown Fort Worth with shuttle connections.
What is the seating capacity for the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium?
AT&T Stadium can accommodate approximately 80,000 fans for football games, with the ability to expand beyond 100,000 for major events. With two passionate fan bases descending on Arlington, tickets for this CFP Quarterfinal matchup are in extremely high demand.
Can I bring a bag to the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium?
AT&T Stadium enforces a strict clear bag policy. Fans may bring only clear plastic bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, one-gallon clear freezer bags, or small clutch purses no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. All bags are subject to search upon entry.
Who is Ohio State's quarterback?
Julian Sayin is Ohio State's starting quarterback. The sophomore has posted historic numbers in his first season as a starter, leading the nation with a 78.4% completion rate that is on pace to break the NCAA single-season record. He's thrown for 3,323 yards and 31 touchdowns.
Who is Miami's quarterback?
Carson Beck is Miami's starting quarterback. Beck transferred to the Hurricanes from Georgia after suffering a season-ending elbow injury in last year's SEC Championship. He's thrown for 3,175 yards and 26 touchdowns in his first season in Coral Gables.
When did Ohio State and Miami last play each other?
Ohio State and Miami last met on September 17, 2011, when the Hurricanes won 24-6 in Miami. However, their most famous meeting was the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, where Ohio State defeated Miami 31-24 in double overtime to win the national championship in one of college football's greatest games.
Who is the Ohio State head coach?
Ryan Day is the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Day led Ohio State to the 2024 national championship, defeating Notre Dame in the title game. The Buckeyes are seeking their second consecutive national title under his leadership.
Who is the Miami head coach?
Mario Cristobal is the head coach of the Miami Hurricanes. Cristobal, a Miami alumnus who won two national championships as a player, is in his fourth season leading the program and has guided the Hurricanes to their first CFP appearance.
What happens if Ohio State wins the Cotton Bowl?
If Ohio State defeats Miami, the Buckeyes will advance to the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl on January 8, 2026, in Glendale, Arizona. They would face the winner of the Rose Bowl matchup between Indiana and Alabama.
How early should I arrive at AT&T Stadium for the Cotton Bowl?
Gates typically open two to three hours before kickoff, so fans can enter AT&T Stadium starting around 3:30-4:30 PM CT. Arriving early allows time to navigate parking, clear security, explore the stadium, and soak in the pregame atmosphere on New Year's Eve.
Is this Ohio State's first time playing in the Cotton Bowl?
No, this is Ohio State's fourth appearance in the Cotton Bowl Classic and third consecutive appearance. The Buckeyes are 3-1 all-time in the Cotton Bowl, with wins over Texas A&M (1987), USC (2017), and Texas (2025), and a loss to Missouri (2024).