Bowl games today: Friday, Jan. 2 schedule (all times ET)

Note: Times are listed in Eastern Time (ET). If you’re watching from elsewhere, check your local listings.

Matchup quick guide: what to watch on Jan. 2

Armed Forces Bowl — Texas State vs. Rice (1:00 p.m. ET, ESPN)

The day begins in Fort Worth with Texas State aiming to finish the season on a high note after a year of narrow margins. Rice enters the postseason short-handed, while the Bobcats arrive with continuity and a chance to turn steady progress into a statement win.

Liberty Bowl — Navy vs. Cincinnati (4:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)

Navy’s identity is simple: control the game with a relentless ground attack and disciplined execution. Cincinnati, meanwhile, is navigating heavy roster turnover — a storyline that often matters in bowl games where cohesion can be as important as talent.

Duke’s Mayo Bowl — Mississippi State vs. Wake Forest (8:00 p.m. ET, ESPN)

Two teams that beat preseason expectations meet in Charlotte. Mississippi State’s season included meaningful improvement and a clear offensive direction, while Wake Forest’s year was defined by stability through change. If this turns into a fourth-quarter game, it won’t surprise anyone.

Holiday Bowl — No. 17 Arizona vs. SMU (8:00 p.m. ET, FOX)

San Diego closes the night with a matchup that looks built for momentum swings: Arizona’s turnaround has been powered by balance on both sides of the ball, and SMU has the kind of passing production that can flip a game quickly. Holiday Bowls have a reputation for drama — and this pairing has the ingredients.

How to watch today’s bowl games

• ESPN: Armed Forces Bowl, Liberty Bowl, Duke’s Mayo Bowl
• FOX: Holiday Bowl
• Streaming is typically available via network apps and TV provider sign-ins.

Looking ahead: the postseason continues next week with the College Football Playoff semifinals on Jan. 8 and Jan. 9, followed by the National Championship on Jan. 19.

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