College football’s biggest party is back with the College Football Playoffs, and it’s bringing the drama, the stakes and the late-night finishes fans crave. The College Football Playoff semifinals take center stage Thursday and Friday, with two bowl games standing between four teams and a shot at the national championship.
If you’re wondering how, when and where to watch, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Clear your schedule, charge your devices and stock up on snacks. This is appointment television.
The CFP semifinals will be played Thursday, Jan. 8, and Friday, Jan. 9, with both games airing live on ESPN. Each matchup features a trip to the College Football Playoff National Championship on the line, and both kick off in prime time.
Thursday, Jan. 8: College Football Playoffs Semifinal Bowl Game
The first semifinal takes place Thursday night at one of college football’s marquee bowl venues. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern, making it the perfect start to a long weekend of football.
The game will be televised nationally on ESPN, with live streaming available through the ESPN App. Viewers with traditional cable or satellite packages can tune in directly, while cord-cutters can watch through live TV streaming services that carry ESPN.
This matchup will feature two teams that survived the expanded playoff bracket, combining postseason momentum with championship pressure. Expect contrasting styles, high emotions and — if history is any guide — at least one moment that will live on highlight reels for years.
Friday, Jan. 9: College Football Playoffs Semifinal Bowl Game
Friday night brings the second semifinal, also kicking off at 7:30 p.m. Eastern and airing on ESPN. By the time this game starts, fans will already know one finalist — and the tension will be delicious.
As with Thursday’s game, viewers can watch on cable, satellite or via the ESPN App. Streaming services that include ESPN in their channel lineup will also carry the broadcast, making it easy to watch from home, on the road or wherever your football plans take you.
This game traditionally draws massive viewership, especially with the stakes crystal clear: win and advance, lose and watch the title game from the couch.
How to Watch the CFP Semifinals
Here’s the simple breakdown so you don’t miss a snap:
- TV: ESPN
- Streaming: ESPN App (with TV provider login)
- Kickoff Times: 7:30 p.m. Eastern on both nights
- Dates: Thursday, Jan. 8, and Friday, Jan. 9
Fans using streaming services should confirm ESPN is included in their subscription and sign in ahead of time. There’s nothing more painful than missing the opening kickoff while hunting for a password.
Watching on the Go
For fans who won’t be home — or who like to pretend they’re being productive — the ESPN App allows live streaming on phones, tablets and connected devices. Smart TVs, streaming sticks and gaming consoles also support the app, turning nearly any screen into a front-row seat.
Many viewers also enjoy ESPN’s alternate viewing options, which may include enhanced data feeds, multiple camera angles or sky-high views of the action. These features are typically available through the ESPN App and add an extra layer of fun for die-hard fans.
Pregame Coverage
The CFP semifinals don’t start at kickoff. ESPN’s pregame programming begins earlier in the day, featuring analysis, predictions and on-site atmosphere from the bowl locations.
Expect deep dives into matchups, interviews with coaches and players, and plenty of debate over which team has the edge. Whether you’re superstitious, analytical or just here for the vibes, pregame coverage sets the tone for the night ahead.
Time Zone Check
All kickoff times are listed in Eastern Time. Fans watching from other time zones should plan accordingly:
- Central Time: 6:30 p.m.
- Mountain Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Pacific Time: 4:30 p.m.
Yes, West Coast fans may want to sneak out of work early. This is important.
What’s at Stake
The winners of Thursday and Friday’s games advance to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, scheduled for Monday, Jan. 19. For players, it’s the culmination of months of preparation. For fans, it’s the payoff — and the bragging rights.
With the playoff now expanded, the road to the semifinals has been longer and more intense. Teams have had to prove depth, resilience and consistency, making these matchups even more compelling.
Game-Day Tips for Fans
- Log in early: Streaming apps sometimes need updates or re-authentication. Do it before kickoff.
- Check your internet speed: A strong connection helps avoid buffering during crucial moments.
- Silence notifications: Or don’t — chaos is part of the fun.
- Hydrate: Emotionally and otherwise.
The Bottom Line
College football doesn’t do subtle — and the CFP semifinals are proof. Two nights. Four teams. One national championship waiting on the other side.
Whether you’re watching from your living room, your favorite sports bar or your phone under the table, Thursday and Friday promise big plays, bold calls and unforgettable moments.
So settle in, turn it up and enjoy the ride. January football is here — and it’s absolutely worth staying up late for.