We’ve only been asking for this our entire lives: a real, honest-to-God 12-team College Football Playoff. After years of watching deserving teams get left out, the NCAA has finally graced us with a format that has the potential to live up to the pure gambling debauchery and glory of March Madness.
Sure, there are plenty of questions—why do conference champs get automatic byes? Why does the 5th seed get such a favorable draw? And what happens when a snowstorm blows through Happy Valley in late December? Forget the nitpicking for a moment—this is a fresh start worth celebrating. More college football games in December and January mean more opportunities for heartbreak, triumph, and, most importantly, glorious gambling action.
Today, we’re jumping headfirst into the NEW Holiday Madness, where the stakes are high, the storylines are juicy, and the betting angles are endless. We’ll break down the first-round matchups, spotlight the players who’ll make or break your bets, and uncover the trends that could save—or sink—your bankroll. Whether you’re here to cheer, curse, or cash in, we’ve got everything you need to navigate the glorious chaos ahead. We’ll explore juicy prop bets, juicy lines, and yes, the juiciest storylines—like how Tennessee’s ground game stacks up against Ohio State or why Clemson’s defense might just ruin Texas’ holiday plans.
Plus, we’re spicing things up with the 🐪1st Annual Golden Camel Holiday Madness Bracket Challenge🐪 … where egos will collide, picks will be mocked, and one of them will be buying an expensive dinner.
Buckle up, the ACTUAL College Football Playoffs (not some 4 team bullshit) are finally here! This is the most wonderful time of the year, and a real college football playoff is a 🎁 gift 🎁 to every fan this year!
CFB Playoffs First-Round Matchups: Chaos, Bets, and Glory
The wait is over and the first round has blessed us with the kind of matchups that’ll keep you on your couch, sweating through every snap while glued to your Golden Camel app following every crazy parlay down to the last play. From the scrappy underdog vibes of Indiana to the offensive juggernaut in Texas, this slate of games is like a buffet of football chaos. Whether you’re chasing props, dreaming of parlays, or just here for the drama, these first-round matchups have a little something for everyone.
Let’s get to it before Notre Dame fans start claiming this is their year. Again!
Full College Football Playoff Bracket
No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame
Date: Friday, Dec. 20, 8 p.m. ET
Line: Notre Dame -7
Forget chess—this game is more like a street brawl where Indiana brings a tire iron. While Notre Dame prides itself on polished offense and clock management, Indiana’s gritty defense and power running game are tailor-made to punch the Irish right in their gold-plated helmets. This matchup feels ripe for the underdog to steal the spotlight and advance.
Indiana Hoosiers
Quarterback Kurtis Rourke might love to sling it, but the Hoosiers’ real path to victory lies in grinding down the clock with their run game and letting their defense do the talking. D’Angelo Ponds, their defensive dynamo, has been a turnover-forcing machine and will need to wreak havoc in the backfield to derail Notre Dame’s rhythm. Indiana isn’t here to look pretty—they’re here to rough up the Irish and steal a win.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame’s offense is all about balance and execution, but they’ll need more than that to escape this one unscathed. If their run game stalls and Indiana’s defense clamps down, the Irish might find themselves in trouble. Their secondary could face a test if Rourke decides to air it out, but if Notre Dame can control the tempo, they should stay in the driver’s seat.
Bets to Consider
- Kurtis Rourke Over 275 Passing Yards: He’ll be slinging it all night.
- D’Angelo Ponds Over 5.5 Tackles: Indiana’s defense lives and dies with him.
- Indiana ML: For the bold, an upset could be in the cards. For the more conservative, take Indiana and the points.
The Hoosiers have the formula to knock off the Irish: a defense that can frustrate Notre Dame’s precision and a ground attack that can dominate possession. Don’t be shocked if this one ends with Indiana celebrating while South Bend collectively searches for excuses (once again).
No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn St
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 12 p.m. ET
Line: Penn State -8.5
This game is a classic clash of styles: SMU’s fast-paced, high-scoring offense heads into the icy fortress of Penn State, where defenses feast and dreams freeze. Can SMU’s speed melt Penn State’s steel curtain defense? Or will the Mustangs be riding back to Texas with frostbite?
SMU Mustangs
SMU’s offense is a turbocharged Ferrari—they can score in the blink of an eye. But here’s the kicker: cold weather and quick strikes don’t usually mix. If they can keep Penn State on their heels early, they’ve got a shot. If not, it’ll be a long, frosty day for the Mustangs.
Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State’s defense is colder than a Midwest December. And then there’s Tyler Warren, a tight end who catches everything thrown his way—and occasionally scores rushing touchdowns just to flex. If Penn State can control the clock and avoid turnovers, this game should be there’s for the taking.
Bets to Consider
- Tyler Warren Over 4.5 Receptions: He’s their go-to guy, period.
- Penn State Team Total Over 27: SMU’s defense has given up more than 20 points a game this year.
- SMU +8.5: This should be a close game with lots of back and forth and 8.5 points seems like a lot for the Nittany Lions to cover.
As the clock ticks down in this clash of firepower vs. fortitude, one thing is clear—this game will set the tone for the rest of the playoffs. Can SMU’s lightning-fast offense adapt to the Big Ten’s frosty embrace? Or will Penn State’s defense freeze out the Mustangs and make them rethink their life choices? Either way, this matchup has all the ingredients for drama: speed, grit, and enough betting intrigue to keep your sportsbook app open all afternoon. Whatever happens, bundle up—it’s going to be a chilly, wild ride.
No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Texas
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 4 p.m. ET
Line: Texas -12
This game has “Texas domination” written all over it. Back home in Austin after a tough SEC Championship loss to Georgia, the Longhorns are poised to take out their frustrations on a Clemson team that simply doesn’t have the firepower to keep up. Texas is too talented, too motivated, and frankly, not facing a defense like Georgia’s this week—which means the Longhorns should roll by three scores or more.
Clemson Tigers
Clemson’s defense, led by backfield terror T.J. Parker and standout safety Khalil Barnes, will do everything it can to keep this game close. These two have combined for 110 tackles this season, and they’ll need to have a strong game to stop Texas QB Quinn Ewers. But Clemson’s offense? That’s another story. If they can’t avoid turnovers or find ways to move the chains consistently, their defense will eventually fold under the Longhorns’ relentless pressure.
Texas Longhorns
This is the Texas team fans expect: talented, fired up, and ready to remind the nation why they’re a top seed. With a dominant offensive line and skill players who can stretch the field, Texas has every advantage in this matchup. As long as they protect Ewers and avoid costly mistakes, the Longhorns should cruise to an easy win.
Bets to Consider
- Texas -12: This game shouldn’t be close—expect the Longhorns to run away with it.
- Texas Team Total Over 35: Clemson’s defense is solid, but they won’t stop Texas from piling on.
- Parker Over 0.5 Sack: Even in a blowout, Clemson’s defensive standout should leave his mark.
This isn’t the matchup where Texas falters. Playing at home with a chip on their shoulder, the Longhorns are set to dominate in front of a raucous Austin crowd. Clemson’s defense might make a few plays early, but it won’t be enough to slow the Texas machine. Expect fireworks—and maybe a few “Texas is back” chants as the Longhorns roll into the next round.
No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio St
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21, 8 p.m. ET
Line: Ohio State -7.5
Out of all the first-round games, this one stands out as the biggest wild card. Ohio State has the talent to pull away, but Tennessee has the ground game and grit to make this a dogfight. Add in my good friend Juan from Columbus, who’s ready to pack Ryan Day’s bags, and I’m rolling with Tennessee to pull off the massive upset. Call it bold, call it reckless—but sometimes, chaos is the best bet.
Tennessee Volunteers
Dylan Sampson is Tennessee’s not-so-secret weapon. With 1,485 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, he’s a locomotive that opposing defenses can’t stop. If Tennessee can dominate time of possession and keep Ohio State’s offense on the sideline, their upset dreams could turn into reality faster than you can say, “Buckeye meltdown.”
Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State comes into this one with plenty of talent but plenty of questions, too. After losing to Michigan (again), the Buckeyes need to prove they’re still a powerhouse. Jeremiah Smith, their freshman phenom with 934 yards and 10 touchdowns, is the go-to playmaker who could swing this game. But if Ohio State starts slow or struggles with Tennessee’s physicality, Ryan Day might be hearing more boos than cheers in Columbus.
Bets to Consider
- Tennessee +7.5: Their run game and physicality make this a smart play.
- Dylan Sampson Anytime TD Scorer: Bet on him to find the end zone.
- Jeremiah Smith Over 75.5 Receiving Yards: Even in a tight game, Smith will get his.
This game is the definition of chaos potential. Tennessee has the tools to pull off a program-defining upset, and Ohio State’s postseason confidence is shakier than ever. Whether it’s a ground-and-pound masterclass or a last-second heartbreak for the Buckeyes, one thing’s for sure: Juan might just get his wish if the Volunteers bring the upset party to Columbus.
Teams with First-Round Byes: Dominance with a Few Questions
The current system for awarding first-round byes might need a rethink. Sure, rewarding conference champions makes sense in theory, but are we really saying Arizona State deserves extra rest while Ohio State and Tennessee slug it out? Let’s just say the committee might need to huddle up again next year. For now, though, here are the four teams already chilling this weekend and waiting to find out next week’s matchup. Let’s break down their odds to win it all and how realistic those odds really are.
No. 1 Oregon (+325 to win it all)
The Ducks are flying high, led by Heisman finalist Dillon Gabriel and an offense that chews up yards and spits out points. Add in a defense that’s quietly solid, and you’ve got a team built to go the distance. But the real advantage? Depth. Oregon’s second string could outplay some starters in this field, making them the team to beat.
How They Win: Keep doing what they’ve done all year—score early, control the tempo, and let Gabriel do his thing.
How Realistic Are Their Odds? At +325, they’re the rightful favorites. If they play to their potential, they’re hoisting the trophy.
No. 2 Georgia (+350 to win it all)
Georgia has been here before—dominant, experienced, and scary in the trenches. Their championship pedigree is undeniable, and Carson Beck has quietly put together a strong season. But the Bulldogs’ path depends on Beck staying healthy. If he goes down, this team is toast faster than your betting slip when you parlay the wrong underdog.
How They Win: Pound the rock, dominate the line of scrimmage, and let their playoff experience shine in tight spots.
How Realistic Are Their Odds? At +350, it’s a coin toss between them and Oregon. The combination of Beck’s strong form and the team’s knack for shining in high-pressure moments could tip the scales in their favor.
No. 3 Boise St (+5000 to win it all)
Boise State is the wild card here, riding a Heisman runner-up performance from Ashton Jeanty, who’s this close to breaking Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record. Cinderella story? Sure. But don’t let the long odds fool you—this team is dangerous. They’ve got momentum and nothing to lose, which is exactly the mindset that topples giants.
How They Win: Feed Jeanty until defenses beg for mercy and lean on the element of surprise.
How Realistic Are Their Odds? At +5000, it’s a long shot, but don’t rule out a magical run. Stranger things have happened in college football and they have one of the best running backs in CFB history driving their offense.
No. 4 Arizona St (+4000 to win it all)
Arizona State is peaking at the right time, riding Cam Skattebo’s two-way dominance to a conference title and a top-four seed. This team thrives on grit and chaos, which makes them a nightmare matchup for anyone. But can grit overcome such long odds? Anything is possible in Holiday Madness…
How They Win: Lean on Skattebo to carry the offense and make just enough plays to survive.
How Realistic Are Their Odds? At +4000, they’re a fun dark horse, but it’ll take quite a bit of devilish luck for ASU to win it all.
1st Annual Golden Camel Holiday Madness Bracket Challenge
Artie and Ryan are officially throwing their hats into the 1st Annual Holiday Madness. Each of them filled out their CFB playoff brackets and we’ll all get to follow along below. Bragging rights are at stake. The loser? Public shame and their wallet will be a little lighter after buying dinner at the restaurant of the winner’s choice.
Rules are simple for this first Holiday Madness wager. Each win is worth 1 point and calling the winner is worth 3 points. Most points wins!
Artie’s Holiday Madness Bracket
Ryan’s Holiday Madness Bracket
We’ll be your front-row commentators for every round, tracking who’s racking up wins and who’s delivering the most facepalm-worthy takes of the playoffs. Artie has boldly penciled Arizona State into the national championship game, while Ryan is riding Indiana to pull off the Cinderella run of the century. Both are betting big on an underdog story to christen the first-ever 12-team playoff—and we’re here to document every hilariously bold prediction, crushing defeat, and “I told you so” moment along the way.
Wrapping Up What to Expect in College Football Playoffs
So, there you have it—every matchup, some interesting prop bets, and every juicy storyline laid out like a sportsbook buffet. Whether you’re taking the favorites, chasing underdogs, or riding extreme long shot parlays, this new 12-Team College Football Playoff has enough action to keep you sweating through the holidays.
Seriously, Download the Golden Camel App
Wait, you’ve read this far, soaked up all these tips, and you still haven’t downloaded the Golden Camel App? Just download the app already and start having way more fun chasing your favorite prop bets and parlays from all your betting sites in one app.
With Golden Camel, you can track your parlays, props, and straight bets across all your sportsbooks, check lines, crunch stats, and do it all in one sexy, easy-to-use app. Bouncing between sports betting apps is exhausting. Download the Golden Camel App now in the Apple App Store and start betting like you mean it!
