what happens to the rose bowl in 2025

Sushi Authors

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01-12-2024

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The Rose Bowl Game, affectionately known as "The Granddaddy of Them All," holds a special place in college football history. But with the College Football Playoff (CFP) expansion looming, what's in store for Pasadena's iconic stadium in 2025 and beyond? This article will delve into the evolving landscape of the Rose Bowl and its future role in the world of college football.

The College Football Playoff Expansion and its Impact

The biggest factor influencing the Rose Bowl's future is the expansion of the CFP to 12 teams. This expansion, set to begin in the 2024 season, dramatically alters the landscape of bowl games and their selection process. Previously, the Rose Bowl held a guaranteed spot in the CFP, typically featuring the top-ranked teams from the Pac-12 and Big Ten conferences.

The New Normal: Guaranteed Access vs. Selection

With the 12-team playoff, the Rose Bowl (along with other New Year's Six bowls) loses its automatic CFP berth. Instead, it will compete for selection as one of the top six bowl games in the expanded playoff system. This means the Rose Bowl's matchup will depend on the final rankings and the playoff pairings. While it's highly likely the Rose Bowl will still host a prestigious game featuring top-ranked teams, the certainty of a marquee matchup is gone.

Speculation and Possibilities for the 2025 Rose Bowl Game

While the specifics of the 2025 Rose Bowl are yet to be determined, several scenarios are possible:

• A Top-Tier Matchup: The Rose Bowl's prestige and tradition will likely keep it in the upper echelon of bowl games. It's plausible that it will still host a matchup between two highly ranked teams, even if they aren't automatic qualifiers from specific conferences. Think a clash between two SEC powerhouses or a showdown between a Big Ten champion and a high-ranking team from another conference.

• A Shift in Conference Representation: The traditional Pac-12/Big Ten pairing might become less common. The expanded CFP allows for more flexibility in team selection. We could see matchups involving teams from conferences like the SEC, ACC, or even the Big 12.

• Maintaining Tradition While Embracing Change: While the selection process changes, the Rose Bowl Game's rich tradition and unique atmosphere are unlikely to disappear. The iconic stadium, the parade, and the overall experience will continue to attract fans and players alike. Expect the bowl game to focus on enhancing the spectator experience to maintain its appeal.

Beyond 2025: The Long-Term Outlook for the Rose Bowl

The 2025 season will be a crucial year in determining the long-term impact of the CFP expansion on the Rose Bowl. The success of the new selection process and the continued popularity of the game will determine its future prominence in college football.

However, the Rose Bowl's legacy is secure. Its history and tradition are deeply ingrained in the sport. While its role might evolve, "The Granddaddy of Them All" is unlikely to fade away anytime soon. It will adapt and find its place in the new era of college football.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will the Rose Bowl still be played in Pasadena in 2025?

A: Yes, the Rose Bowl Game is expected to continue to be played in Pasadena, California, in 2025.

Q: Will the Rose Bowl always feature the Pac-12 champion?

A: No, with the CFP expansion, the Rose Bowl no longer has a guaranteed matchup with the Pac-12 champion. The selection process will be more flexible based on team rankings.

Q: How will the 2025 Rose Bowl Game be selected?

A: The selection process for the 2025 Rose Bowl will depend on the overall CFP rankings and the selection committee's choices for the top six bowl games in the expanded playoff system.

The future of the Rose Bowl in 2025 and beyond remains exciting and uncertain. While change is inevitable, the game's enduring legacy and commitment to providing a memorable experience for fans and players will ensure its continued relevance in the college football landscape.