What Channel Is the Rose Bowl On Today? - 2025 Broadcast Info

By Sarah Miller · December 16, 2034

The Rose Bowl game today will be broadcast on ESPN. For viewers in the United States, you can watch it live on ESPN (cable/streaming) or via the ESPN app with a valid TV provider login. The game typically starts around 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

What Channel Is the Rose Bowl On Today?

If you're asking what channel is the Rose Bowl on today, the answer is straightforward: ESPN. This has been the standard broadcaster for the Rose Bowl Game since 2011 as part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) and New Year's Six bowl rotation. Whether you're tuning in via traditional cable, satellite, or streaming platforms, ESPN is your go-to network for live coverage.

How to Watch the Rose Bowl Live

There are several ways to catch the game live, even if you don't have a traditional cable subscription:

Cable/Satellite: Tune to ESPN on your provider (e.g., Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, DirecTV).
Live TV Streaming Services: Available on YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, Sling TV (via ESPN add-on), and DirecTV Stream.
ESPN App: Stream the game on mobile or tablet using the ESPN app with authentication from a participating pay-TV provider.
Free Trial Options: Services like fuboTV and Hulu + Live TV often offer 7-day free trials—ideal for one-off viewing.
International Viewers: Outside the U.S.? Check local sports networks or ESPN International availability.

Rose Bowl Broadcast History and Network Rights

The Rose Bowl Game has a long-standing tradition, but its broadcasting rights have evolved. While historically aired on ABC, the game moved to ESPN in 2011 under the broader ESPN contract covering all College Football Playoff and major bowl games.

Why Is the Rose Bowl on ESPN?

Since the inception of the College Football Playoff system in 2014, ESPN holds exclusive rights to all CFP games, including semifinals that rotate among six major bowls—one being the Rose Bowl. Even in non-playoff years, the Rose Bowl remains on ESPN due to a long-term agreement extending through 2032.

Year	Date	Teams	Winner	Score	TV Network	Viewership (Millions)
2024	Jan 1	Penn State vs Utah	Penn State	35-21	ESPN	9.8
2023	Jan 2	Utah vs Penn State	Utah	35-21	ESPN	9.1
2022	Jan 1	Michigan vs Alabama	Alabama	35-21	ESPN	15.6
2020	Jan 1	LSU vs Oklahoma	LSU	63-28	ESPN	16.8
2018	Jan 1	Georgia vs Oklahoma	Georgia	54-48 (2OT)	ESPN	18.2

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows consistent viewership on ESPN, averaging over 15 million during high-profile matchups such as playoff semifinals. Ratings peak when powerhouse teams like Georgia, Alabama, or LSU participate. Despite occasional dips in non-semifinal years, the Rose Bowl remains one of the most-watched bowl games annually.

Time and Schedule Details for Today's Game

The Rose Bowl typically kicks off at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (2:00 PM Pacific) on January 1st. However, if January 1 falls on a Sunday, the game is moved to January 2 to avoid conflict with NFL schedules. In 2025, the Rose Bowl is scheduled for January 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET.

Key Timing Facts

Kickoff: 5:00 PM ET | 2:00 PM PT
Pre-game coverage begins at 2:30 PM ET on ESPN
Duration: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours
Halftime show features the Tournament of Roses marching bands

Frequently Asked Questions About the Rose Bowl Broadcast

What channel is the Rose Bowl on today?

The Rose Bowl is broadcast on ESPN in the United States. You can also stream it live via the ESPN app or through live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV.

Is the Rose Bowl on ABC or ESPN?

As of recent contracts, the Rose Bowl is aired on ESPN, not ABC. Although ABC previously held broadcast rights, ESPN has exclusive coverage since 2011 under the College Football Playoff agreement.

Can I stream the Rose Bowl for free?

Yes, you can stream the Rose Bowl for free by signing up for a trial with a live TV streaming service such as fuboTV or Hulu + Live TV. Additionally, the ESPN app may allow free access during special promotions or for select users.

What time does the Rose Bowl start today?

The Rose Bowl typically starts at 5:00 PM Eastern Time on January 1. If January 1 is a Sunday, the game is moved to Monday, January 2, at the same time.

Does the Rose Bowl air in 4K?

While ESPN does not currently broadcast the Rose Bowl in native 4K, some providers like DirecTV and YouTube TV may upscaled 4K options. True 4K broadcasts are not yet standard for college bowl games.

Who is playing in the Rose Bowl this year?

The 2025 Rose Bowl will feature a College Football Playoff semifinal matchup. The teams will be determined by the final CFP rankings released in early December 2024. Expect top contenders such as Oregon, Georgia, Ohio State, or Texas to potentially appear.