It’s hard not to feel the anticipation for the 2026 college football season already. Fans are in for a wild ride, with 25 News / 15 ABC bringing a packed lineup of games straight to your screen.
ESPN and ABC have rolled out kickoff times and broadcast schedules for some marquee matchups. We’re talking about classic rivalries, championship showdowns, and a little bit of everything in between.
Here’s a look at the can’t-miss games this season. Grab your calendar—some of these are going to be appointment viewing.
Key Matchups to Watch
This season is loaded with big games featuring top teams. If you’re a college football fan, you’re probably already circling a few of these dates.
Alabama A&M vs. Howard
The season starts with Alabama A&M taking on Howard in Atlanta at 6:30 p.m. on ABC. It’s a fresh start and, honestly, the energy should be off the charts.
East Carolina at Alabama
Alabama hosts East Carolina at 11 a.m. on ABC. The Crimson Tide will try to flex their usual muscle, but East Carolina might have a surprise or two.
Auburn vs. Baylor
Auburn faces Baylor in Atlanta at 2:30 p.m. on ABC. Both teams bring intensity and, let’s be honest, there’s always a chance for some fireworks.
Prime Time Showdowns
Some of the season’s biggest games land in prime time. Rivalries, playoff hopes—it’s all on the line.
Clemson at LSU
Clemson heads to Baton Rouge to play LSU at 6:30 p.m. on ABC. Expect a real battle, with both teams loaded with talent on both sides of the ball.
Louisville vs. Ole Miss
Louisville meets Ole Miss in Nashville at 6:30 p.m. on ABC. If history is any indication, this one’s going to be a wild ride.
Ohio State at Texas
Ohio State visits Texas at 6:30 p.m. on ABC. Two storied programs, huge fan bases—this could be one for the books.
Rivalry Games
Rivalry games are what make college football special. This year’s schedule is stacked with some of the sport’s most heated matchups.
LSU at Ole Miss
LSU takes on Ole Miss at 6:30 p.m. on ABC. The rivalry is fierce, and honestly, you never really know what’s going to happen.
Mississippi State at Ole Miss
The Egg Bowl—Mississippi State vs. Ole Miss—kicks off at 11 a.m. on ABC. It’s unpredictable, sometimes a bit chaotic, and always entertaining.
Florida at Florida State
Florida faces Florida State at 2:30 p.m. on ABC. This one is a tradition, and it almost always means something big for both teams.
State and Conference Championships
The regular season wraps up with teams fighting for conference titles and a shot at the College Football Playoff. These games are where legends are made.
Big 12 Championship Game
The Big 12 Championship Game happens in Arlington, Texas, at 7 p.m. on ABC. The stakes? Pretty much everything for these teams.
ACC Championship Game
The ACC Championship Game will be in Charlotte at 11 a.m. on ABC. The winner gets more than just bragging rights—there’s a playoff spot on the line, too.
Conclusion
The 2026 college football season is shaping up to be pretty wild, honestly. There are tons of games you won’t want to miss, from early clashes to those legendary rivalries.
Fans are in for a treat, with more than enough drama and jaw-dropping moments to go around. If you’re looking to keep up, 25 News / 15 ABC is your go-to spot for all the action.
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