College football fans can look forward to three bowl games scheduled on Tuesday, highlighting a mix of mid-major programs and power conference teams. The slate offers varied matchups that provide intriguing storylines and final chances for players before the new year.
Early Afternoon: Sun Belt vs. Conference USA Showdown
The first game kicks off at 2 p.m. ET on ESPN from Shreveport, Louisiana, featuring a clash between Sun Belt’s Coastal Carolina Chanticleers and Conference USA’s Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. Coastal Carolina enters the game under interim head coach Jeremiah Johnson, preparing for Ryan Beard’s arrival next season. Their offensive approach will likely depend heavily on running back Ja’Vin Simpkins and the more mobile quarterback Samari Collier. If Collier is sidelined, Tad Hudson is expected to take over under center.
The Bulldogs have posted modest success in the passing game, led by QB Trey Kukuk, who helped secure wins in the last two games of the season. However, some Coastal Carolina players have transferred, and others may be auditioning for future roles, which could affect their consistency. Louisiana Tech enjoys the advantage of crowd support and greater local interest, factors that might influence the game’s energy.
Evening: Tennessee Volunteers Host Illinois Fighting Illini
At 5:30 p.m. ET in Nashville, Tennessee, ESPN will broadcast the game between the Vols and the Illinois Fighting Illini. Tennessee narrowly missed the College Football Playoff and now plays their final contest in front of a home-state crowd. QB Joey Aguilar has faced tough SEC defenses all season and continues to rely on key receiver Braylon Staley after star Chris Brazzell opted out.
Illinois, ranked at times in the US LBM Coaches Poll Top 25, fielded an inconsistent team, with QB Luke Altmyer showing better ball security despite limited ground support. Wide receiver Hank Beatty serves as a key deep threat and punt returner for the Illini. However, Tennessee’s lackluster effort during their season finale loss to Vanderbilt raises concerns about their motivation. Illinois also suffered several heavy defeats, suggesting this game could become unpredictable.
Late Night: TCU Horned Frogs vs. USC Trojans
The final matchup starts at 9 p.m. ET from San Antonio, Texas, with TCU facing USC on ESPN. The Trojans battled through a season of setbacks yet managed to win most expected games. Meanwhile, TCU displayed flashes of brilliance mixed with uneven performances that frustrated fans throughout the fall.
Several notable players will be absent: USC’s top receivers Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane have opted out to prepare for the draft, while TCU’s starting QB Josh Hoover is transferring. Backup QB Jayden Maiava will take the reins for USC, needing to develop chemistry with new targets. TCU will rely on backup quarterback Ken Seals, who completed four of six passes all season.
TCU faces a potential personnel disadvantage, and if their defense fails to make early stops, the Trojans might run away with the contest. This late matchup provides an interesting test of depth and adaptability for both squads.
Tuesday’s College Football Bowl Lineup
- Coastal Carolina Chanticleers vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs – 2 p.m. ET, ESPN, Shreveport, LA
- Tennessee Volunteers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini – 5:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, Nashville, TN
- TCU Horned Frogs vs. USC Trojans – 9 p.m. ET, ESPN, San Antonio, TX
These games offer a diverse collection of storylines and competitive opportunities as teams close their seasons. Fans can tune in nationwide to catch these contests unfolding in key football regions.
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