If you’re a college football junkie, January 1, 2026 felt like Christmas morning — but with more heroics, brawls, and wow, did that just happen?! moments than you can shake a foam finger at.
Let’s break down the wild quarterfinal results, how things look heading into the semifinals, and what every fan should be watching next.
🔥 January 1 Highlights: From Dominance to Drama
💪 Indiana Roars in Pasadena
Top-seeded Indiana didn’t just win — they annihilated Alabama in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal, 38–3. The Hoosiers looked like a machine: efficient on offense, suffocating on defense, and ready to roll right through anyone in their path. Led by Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza and an offensive line that made Alabama look like they were playing in slow motion, Indiana has to be considered a serious title favorite.
🌴 Miami Shocks the World
In Arlington at the Cotton Bowl, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the playoff: eliminating defending champs Ohio State, 24–14. Miami’s defense flipped the script with a 72-yard interception return for a touchdown, and QB Carson Beck played like a guy who knew he belonged here. For a team that barely snuck into the 12-team field, this run has quickly become must-watch.
🦆 Oregon’s Statement Win
The Ducks came out in the Orange Bowl and shut Texas Tech down in classic fashion, pitching a 23–0 shutout. Oregon’s defense set the tone, and their offense did just enough to win big — a dangerous combination heading into the next round.
⚔️ Ole Miss Edges Georgia
In one of the most thrilling games of January 1, Ole Miss held off a furious Georgia comeback in the Sugar Bowl, winning 39–34. It was supernatural late-game drama: Georgia tied it with under a minute left, but Ole Miss marched down and nailed a clutch late field goal — then added a safety just to underline that they’re not going quietly.
🏆 Playoff Picture: The Final Four
With those quarterfinals in the books, the field narrows to four — and these matchups are juicier than a bloomin’ onion in overtime.
👉 Fiesta Bowl (Jan. 8) — #6 Ole Miss vs. #10 Miami
These two teams with swagger and storylines collide in Glendale. Ole Miss’ resilience vs. Miami’s Cinderella grit — this game will be electric. NCAA.com
👉 Peach Bowl (Jan. 9) — #1 Indiana vs. #5 Oregon
A rematch of a regular-season tilt where Indiana handed Oregon a tough loss — and now both elite offenses and contrasting styles meet again… but this time with a spot in the National Championship Game on the line. NCAA.com
Then it all culminates on January 19 in Miami Gardens, when the winners face off for the title. NCAA.com
🧠 Fan Takeaways & What to Watch
🎯 Indiana’s Confidence
The Hoosiers have been built for this moment — physical line play, pinpoint passing, and a defense that refuses to flinch. They’re not just surviving; they’re dominating.
🔄 Underdogs Aren’t Done
Miami’s run has reminded everyone why we love college football — rankings matter, but on any given day, heart can win.
💥 Rematches & Rivalries
Oregon vs. Indiana is going to feel like redemption vs. confirmation. This time, neither team will be caught flatfooted.
🌟 Big Plays in Big Moments
From pick-sixes to clutch field goals, January 1 had it all — and the best might still be ahead.
