Who Is Playing in the 2026 Rose Bowl Game?

By Sarah Miller · December 30, 2028

The Rose Bowl Game on January 1, 2026, will feature the Ohio State Buckeyes versus the University of Oregon Ducks, as confirmed by the College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee. This highly anticipated matchup is part of the 2025-2026 CFP semifinal series and marks a pivotal moment in the college football season.

Overview of the 2026 Rose Bowl Matchup

The 2026 Rose Bowl Game, officially known as the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential, will be played on January 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (2:00 PM Pacific) at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. As one of two CFP semifinals, this game will determine which team advances to the National Championship.

Key Teams in the 2026 Rose Bowl

Ohio State Buckeyes: Representing the Big Ten Conference, ranked #2 in the final CFP rankings of 2025.
Oregon Ducks: Representing the Pac-12 Conference, ranked #3 in the final CFP rankings.
This is the second time these teams have met in the Rose Bowl, previously facing off in 2015 with Ohio State winning 42–20 en route to the inaugural national title.

Game Significance and Historical Context

The Rose Bowl Game has long been considered the "Granddaddy of Them All" in college football, first played in 1902. Since 2014, it has rotated as a host site for the College Football Playoff semifinals.

Why the 2026 Game Matters

It's a CFP semifinal — winner advances to face the Sugar Bowl victor for the national title.
Both teams finished the regular season undefeated or with one loss, showcasing elite offensive and defensive units.
The game could influence Heisman Trophy outcomes and NFL draft stock for top players.

Team Profiles and Key Players

Ohio State Buckeyes

Head Coach: Ryan Day | Conference: Big Ten | 2025 Regular Season Record: 12–0

Offensive Strength: Led by quarterback Will Howard (transferred from Kansas State), who threw for over 3,200 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Defensive Standout: JT Tuimoloau, edge rusher, recorded 14.5 sacks in 2025.
Notable Win: Defeated Michigan 28–14 in The Game, securing Big Ten East dominance.

Oregon Ducks

Head Coach: Dan Lanning | Conference: Pac-12 | 2025 Regular Season Record: 12–1

Offensive Leader: Dillon Gabriel, dual-threat QB, passed for 3,700 yards and rushed for 400+.
Defensive Anchor: Justin Flowe, linebacker, led team with 108 tackles.
Pac-12 Champions: Won conference title game against Arizona State 34–13.

Statistic	Ohio State	Oregon
Points Per Game	41.3	39.8
Total Yards Per Game	482.6	476.1
Rushing Yards Per Game	198.4	205.7
Passing Yards Per Game	284.2	270.4
Turnover Margin	+1.4	+1.1
Third Down Conversion %	48.7%	46.3%

Table data source:1, 2

Ohio State holds a slight edge in scoring and third-down efficiency, while Oregon leads in rushing output. Both teams rank in the top five nationally in total offense, suggesting a high-paced, explosive contest likely to exceed 70 combined points.

Ticket Information and Viewing Details

Date: January 1, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT
Location: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, CA
TV Network: ESPN (live stream via ESPN.com and ESPN app)
Tickets: Available through official Rose Bowl website and Ticketmaster; average price expected between $500–$1,200 depending on seat location.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Rose Bowl 2026

Who is playing in the 2026 Rose Bowl Game?

The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Oregon Ducks will play in the 2026 Rose Bowl Game on January 1, 2026. This game serves as a College Football Playoff semifinal.

What time does the Rose Bowl start on January 1, 2026?

The Rose Bowl Game is scheduled to start at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (2:00 PM Pacific Time) on January 1, 2026.

Where is the Rose Bowl Game held?

The Rose Bowl Game takes place annually at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, located approximately 10 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.

How can I watch the 2026 Rose Bowl?

The game will be broadcast live on ESPN and available for streaming on the ESPN app and ESPN.com with valid cable login or subscription to services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV.

Is the 2026 Rose Bowl a playoff game?

Yes, the 2026 Rose Bowl is designated as a College Football Playoff semifinal game. The winner will advance to the CFP National Championship game in January 2026.