The domination has ended for Merab Dvalishvili.

In shocking fashion, Dvalishvili lost to Petr Yan by unanimous decision in a bantamweight title bout at UFC 323, ending Dvalishvili’s championship reign atop the 135-pound division and his 14-bout winning streak.

Dvalishvili, a 34-year-old Georgian, had not lost a fight since 2018 during a run that included three title defenses.

But a rematch with Yan derailed it all.

The two men fought first in 2023, when Dvalishvili won by unanimous decision. But this time, in the rematch, Yan punished Dvalishvili with his fists, kicks and even takedowns. He also showed remarkable defense in fending off most of Dvalishvili’s takedown attempts.

The judges scored it 49-46, 49-46, 48-47 in favor of Yan.

“I feel very happy. I worked so hard,’’ Yan said through an interpreter after the five-round fight. “I prepared so hard for this moment.’’

Dvalishvili’s face, bloodied and battered, also demonstrated the pain Yan inflicted.

Yan, the 32-year-old Russian, improved to 20-5 (12-4 UFC) after winning his fourth fight in a row.

Dvalishvili’s record dropped to 21-5 (14-3 UFC).

Dvalishvili said he was trying to make it an entertaining fight by standing toe-to-toe with Yan, “and he was a better fighter today.’’

Moments after Yan was awarded the championship belt, Dvalishvili also said, “Congratulations to him, but I want a rematch.’’

USA TODAY Sports provided round-by-round analysis for the Dvalishvili-Yan fight and the rest of the main card:

Petr Yan def. Merab Dvalishvili by unanimous decision: Round-by-round analysis

Round 1

Petr Yan entered the octagon and turned a cartwheel. No telling how that flair might serve him now that Merab Dvalishvili has entered the octagon, too, with the fight set to begin.

Merab on the move, and Yan shadowing. Merab lets fly with a right and lands a right overhand. Yan taking his time. Eats another right from Merab, and he better start punching soon. Merab showing aggression.

Merab charges forward and unloads as Yan looks mostly concerned about covering up. Yan connects with a couple of jabs and Merab throws heavy punches, mostly missing. Yan connects with a big right! Then a left. But Merab scores a takedown, and he needs to wrap up Yan. Yan clearly has the ability to turn Merab, but not if he’s wrapped up. Yan fighting the takedown and getting kneed in the glutes and squirms loose. But Merab wraps up Yan again and attempts another takedown. Fans boo. Dvalishvili 10, Yan 9

Round 2

Merab rushes out behind a big right. He’s remained the aggressor and looks for another takedown. Yan defending well and Merab determined to score this takedown. But Yan breaks free.

Yan connects with a jab. A hard jab. Merab lunges. Reportedly, Merab has failed to score any takedowns. Unreal. Now, Yan scores the takedown! Then Merab pulls the reversal! And Yan reverses Merab!

They’re clinched on the fence but Yan is in a headlock. Now they shake loose. Yan scores with another wicked jab. Merab is keeping Yan tied up and gains a reprieve from Yan’s fists. Yan scores with a right. Merab’s face is badly bloodied. Dvalishvili 20, Yan 18

Round 3

Merab’s nose looks like it might be broken. No question it’s bloody and battered. Merab lands a hard right and Yan scores a big takedown. Merab on the rampage but Yah slugs him square in he face.

Merab slings Yan over his shoulder, slams him to the mat and back up pops Yan. They’re trading blows, but both look exhausted. Merab attempts a takedown and Yan fights it off.

Yan lands a right and then a jab. Merab goes for yet another takedown. More terrific takedown defense by Yan. Merab charging ahead. Yan lands a vicious kick to the body. Merab is hurt. Dvalishvili 29, Yan 28

Round 4

Yan opens with a hard low leg kick. Merab shows no ill effects from that kick to the abdomen. Yet. He’s attempting yet another takedown and gets taken down instead.

Merab going for a choke here. Yan shakes free of the submission attempt and now has Merab’s back. Yan lands a kick and he’s on the move. Merab stays aggressive. Another takedown attempt and Yan defends again.

Yan landing with that jab repeatedly and scores with another hard left shot to the body. Another hard body shot by Yan. Yan pounds Merab with a vicious left, and then a big right followed by an elbow. Yan is taking over. Dvalishvili 38, Yan 38

Round 5

Yan comes out assertively with side kicks to the legs. Merab firing punches and Yan responds with a leg kick. Now he scores with a left hook to Merab’s body. They trade big punches, and Yan appears to get the best of the exchange.

Yan lands a couple of lefts. He looks patient and dangerous. Merab wraps up Yan but Yan fights him off YET again! Blood is everywhere – mostly Merab’s. Merab’s face is a bloody mess. He’s firing punches but doesn’t look certain about what he wants to do. Now he’s looking for a submission.

Yan shakes free and gets on top. He scores with a knee and elbow before they separate. Yan lands another crushing body kick. Crowd cheering, clock running out and Yan scores his fifth takedown of the fight! Yan 48, Dvalishvili 47

Joshua Van def. Alexandre Pantoja by TKO

The fight lasted 26 seconds, and it was as shocking as it was excruciating.

At 24, Van becomes the second youngest champion in UFC history after Pantoja appeared to seriously injure his arm just as the flyweight bout was getting underway.

Pantoja, 35, attempted a head kick and Van caught his left. That left Pantoja spinning and looking for a place to land.

But as he fell, Pantoja landed on his left arm and it didn’t look good. He made it clear he couldn’t continue and the referee halted the fight. Dana White said afterward that Pantoja had suffered a shoulder injury.

The only younger champion in UFC history was Jon Jones, who won his first belt at 23.

Van improved to 16-2 and Pantoja fell to 30-6.

Alexandre Pantoja vs. Joshua Van: Round-by-round analysis

Round 1

Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja already looks like one of the best ever to fight in the division. But 24-year-old contender Joshua Van looks to change the narrative with a massive upset.

Pantoja opens with a leg kick and the punches already are flying. Pantoja suffers an arm injury and the fight is over! Pantoja cannot continue! 

Tatsuro Taira def. Brandon Moreno by TKO

Taira proved to be a quicker learner in his victory over Moreno in the flyweight bout.

Taira spent most of the first round fighting off a possible submission after trying to take down Moreno but slipping into Moreno’s clutches.

Taira took Moreno down again in Round 2 and he kept him there – long enough to pound him with punches before the referee halted the fight.

Taira, the 25-year-old from Japan, improved to 18-1. Moreno, the 31-year-old from Mexico, fell to 23-9-2.

Brandon Moreno vs. Tatsuro Taira: Round-by-round analysis

Round 1

Brandon Moreno, the former two-time UFC flyweight champion, is looking to fight for the title again. The path leaves him face-to-face with Tatsuro Taira.

Taira opens with a fast right that misses the target – violently. Taira attempts a takedown but Moreno ends up on top and is locking in a body triangle. Taira looks helpless but not in danger of submitting. The problem: 2:45 left to go and no clear exit for Taira.

Taira starts to throw punches, but there’s not much room to operate. The hold is weakening and the fans boo. But Moreno is retightening the triangle. Taira throwing punches, so clearly he’s getting adequate air and the crowd is losing patience. Taira breaks free and fails to score before the round ends. Moreno 10, Taira 9

Round 2

Moreno scores with a jab and a right hook. Moreno fires another jab and connects with a low leg kick. Connects with another left. Taira looks … a little unsure of himself. Now he unloads with punches and scores a takedown.

Taira now throwing hard punches to Moreno’s head and face. A flurry of big punches and the referee stops the fight! It’s over! It’s Taira by TKO.

Payton Talbott def. Henry Cejudo by unanimous decision

Talbott knocked off the legendary Cejudo and had a message after winning the flyweight bout by unanimous decision. A fight that sent Cejudo back into retirement.

“Guys, give it up for Henry Cejudo, the savior of the flyweight division,’’ Talbott said. “Love him or hate him, everyone watched.’’

It was riveting theater again, as the 38-year-old Cejudo brawled with the 27-year-old Talbott. He had the heart of a champion – a former Olympic gold medalist wrestler and former two-division UFC champion (flyweight and bantamweight).

But Talbott was too good and too young on a night that ended with Cejudo’s face covered with blood and pride. Talbott improved to 11-1 and Cejudo fell to 16-6.

Henry Cejudo vs. Payton Talbott: Round-by-round analysis

Round 1

Legend Henry Cejudo hasn’t looked so legendary while losing his last three fights. Can he avoid yet another loss against 27-year-old Payton Talbott?

Cejudo opens with a couple quick low leg kicks. Talbott lands a huge right. But Cejudo marches forward and lands another low leg kick. Talbott lands another left as Cejudo keeps firing those low leg kicks. Talbott noticeably taller. But nothing new for Cejudo.

Cejudo bleeding from the nose and now he’s getting kneed and Talbott lands a left. Cejudo drops Talbott with a right but Talbott quickly back up. And Talbott has tattooed Cejudo’s face and then scores a takedown. In fact, sticks out his tongue in celebration. Talbott scores with a couple of elbows and lands a flurry of shots before Cejudo scrambles to his feet. And Talbott takes him down again HARD seconds before the round ends. Talbott 10, Cejudo 9

Round 2

Talbott drops Cejudo with a right but he quickly scrambles to his feet and now Cejudo is on top! The former Olympic gold medalist wrestler, of course. Cejudo on top but not throwing punches, maybe just catching his breath? Crowd growing restless.

About three minutes left. How will Cejudo use the time? Talbott scrambles to his feet, but Cejudo still has his back. Now they’re separated and Talbott is firing punches and clips Cejudo with a stiff left. Talbott is pouring it on!

Cejudo fighting back and it’s a bloody war. Cejudo a bloody mess but still fighting. Cejudo’s left eye just covered with blood. Round ends. Incredible. Talbott 20, Cejudo 18

Round 3

Cejudo scores with a hard low leg kick. And now he’s firing punches and kicks. Talbott knees Cejudo and he just looks sharper and fresher. Cejudo has no answer for the long limbs that have bloodied his face.

Now they’re clinched. Cejudo’s right eye bleeding again as they’re clinched. Talbott drives his knee into Cejudo’s body but suddenly Cejudo scores the takedown. Talbott quickly back on his feet. Talbott drive his knee into Cejudo’s chest and it’s getting ugly.

Cejudo attempts another takedown but Talbott fends it off. Hard to know who’s wearing whose blood. Talbott pouring it on, but Cejudo swinging for the fences, too. Talbott points to the center of the mat and they brawl as the final seconds elapse. Talbott 30, Cejudo 27

Jan Blachowicz vs. Bogdan Guskov declared majority draw

It’s almost impossible to imagine the 42-year-old Blachowicz reigning atop the light heavyweight division again. But retirement doesn’t appear to be imminent, either.

Despite suffering a beating in the second round, Blachowicz rallied and earned a majority draw against Guskov.

He weathered a flurry of Guskov’s elbows and fists after getting dropped in the second round, then fought his way back in the three-round bout behind an aggressive, jab-heavy attack.

One judge scored it 29-28 for Blachowicz and the two other judges scored it 28-28 – meaning they scored the second round 10-8 in favor of Guskov but gave the first and third rounds to Blachowicz.

Jan Blachowicz vs. Bogdan Guskov: Round-by-round analysis

Round 1

Jan Blachowicz, the former light heavyweight champion, enters this fight having won just one of his last five bouts. At 42, can he get back on track against 33-year-old Bogdan Guskov?

Fighters circling, measuring. Guskov throws a few jabs, not with any serious intention. Blachowicz connects with a low leg kick, tries to follow up with a jab that falls short. Waiting for violence to ensue. Blachowicz scores with a jab and connects with another low level kick. Another kick. But no one is going for broke yet.

Guskov connects with a straight left that backed up Blachowicz. But Blachowicz responds with a couple of lefts. They traded kicks. Jabs are ruling this round. The crowd is getting a little restless. Now whistling ensues. Blachowicz has pounded Guskov’s left leg, but he lands a flurry of punches. Blachowicz 10, Guskov 9

Round 2

Blachowicz sticks Guskov with a solid left and connects with another leg kick. Then Guskov scores with a big right and down goes Blachowicz as Guskov begins the ground and pound and tries to finish the job. Guskov connects with two more big shots.

Blachowicz has Guskov in a heel locker but he breaks free. Lots of time left as Guskov sets up for more ground and pound. Blachowicz taking lots of punishment as Guskov throws elbows and opens up a cut on Blachowicz’s right eye.

Guskov in total control and Blachowicz winces as the punishment continues. Blachowicz punching back, but with no authority. Guskov capitalizing with sharp elbows. Blachowicz 19, Guskov 19

Round 3

Blachowicz comes out with surprising assertiveness, but Guskov scores with a left jab that rattles Blachowicz. Guskov connecting with big shots. Blachowicz still stalking at times and showing some energy. Throwing impressive jabs, but Guskov fires back with a hard right.

Blachowicz is revving up and fires away despite blood running into his left eye. Guskov retreating and growing strangely apprehensive. It’s Blachowicz who’s fighting with more aggressiveness.

They’re at the center of the octagon. Blachowicz knocks Guskov down with a right as the round comes to a close! Unbelievable! Blachowicz 29, Guskov 28

UFC 323 results: Prelims

• Manuel Torres def. Grant Dawson by TKO (1st round), lightweight

• Chris Duncan def. Terrance McKinney by submission (anaconda choke, 1st rd), lightweight 

• Maycee Barber def. Karine Silva by unanimous decision, women’s flyweight
• Fares Ziam def. Nazim Sadykhov by TKO (2nd rd), lightweight

UFC 323 results: Early Prelims

• Brunno Ferreira def. Marvin Vettori by unanimous decision, middleweight
• Jalin Turner def. Edson Barboza by TKO (1st rd), lightweight

• Iwo Baraniewski def. Ibo Aslan KO (1st rd), light heavyweight
• Mansur Abdul-Malik def. Antonio Trocoli by submission (guillotine choke/1st rd), middleweight
• Mairon Santos def. Muhammad Naimov by TKO (3rd rd), featherweight

UFC 323 predictions: Dvalishvili vs. Yan expert picks

Sporting News: Merab via unanimous decision

Daniel Yanofsky writes: ‘Has Yan improved his takedown defense (85%) since the last fight? Even against other opponents, they aren’t on the same level as Merab. Even if injuries may have affected Yan last time, it appears nothing can stop Merab, especially on the floor. Expect the same result here.’

Action Network: Merab Dvalishvili

Billy Ward writes: ‘With the champion only about two years older than the challenger, it’s also hard to say that time could be the equalizer here, as both men are in roughly the same stage of their careers. For all of those reasons, the roughly four-to-one odds on ‘The Machine’ to retain his title feel about right.’

Score and Stats: Merab Dvalishvili

Rick Rockwell writes: ‘You can throw caution to the wind and bet on a KO upset, but I don’t see it happening. Merab wins with defense, timing, pacing, and suffocating wrestling. Yan didn’t have an answer for that in 2023, and he won’t have an answer for it now.’

UFC 323 odds: Dvalishvili vs. Yan fight

Odds via BetMGM as of Thursday.

• Merab Dvalishvili (-500) vs. Petr Yan (+340); For bantamweight title

UFC 323: Dvalishvili vs. Yan fight card

Fight card according to ESPN:

Fight card according to ESPN.

Main Card:

• Merab Dvalishvili vs. Petr Yan; For bantamweight title
• Alexandre Pantoja vs. Joshua Van; For flyweight title
• Brandon Moreno vs. Tatsuro Taira; Flyweight
• Henry Cejudo vs. Payton Talbott; Lightweight
• Jan Blachowicz vs. Bogdan Guskov; Bantamweight

Prelims:

• Grant Dawson vs. Manuel Torres; Lightweight
• Chris Duncan vs. Terrance McKinney; Lightweight
• Maycee Barber vs. Karine Silva; Women’s flyweight
• Nazim Sadykhov vs. Fares Ziam; Lightweight

Early Prelims:

• Marvin Vettori vs. Brunno Ferreira; Middleweight
• Edson Barboza vs. Jalin Turner; Lightweight
• Ibo Aslan vs. Iwo Baraniewski; Light Heavyweight
• Mansur Abdul-Malik vs. Antonio Trocoli; Middleweight
• Muhammad Naimov vs. Mairon Santos; Featherweight

UFC 323 preliminary and main card start times

Here are your start times.

• Early Prelims: 6 p.m. ET (FX, ESPN+, Disney+)
• Prelims: 8 p.m. ET (ESPN2, FX, ESPN+, Disney+)
• Main card: 10 p.m. ET (PPV on ESPN+)

UFC 324 moves to Paramount+, ending PPV era for UFC

After UFC 323, the organization now moves on from its PPV model with ESPN and ESPN+. With its seven-year, $7.7 billion deal with Paramount, the promise is upwards of 40 UFC events a year. It all begins in 2026 with UFC 324 on Jan. 24, which will broadcast on streaming service Paramount+.

UFC 323 odds: Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan full card

Fight card according to ESPN: Odds via BetMGM as of Thursday.

Main Card:

• Merab Dvalishvili (-500) vs. Petr Yan (+340); For bantamweight title
• Alexandre Pantoja (-265) vs. Joshua Van (+200); For flyweight title
• Brandon Moreno (+110) vs. Tatsuro Taira (-140); Flyweight
• Henry Cejudo (+200) vs. Payton Talbott (-265); Lightweight
• Jan Blachowicz (-140) vs. Bogdan Guskov (+110); Bantamweight

Prelims:

• Grant Dawson (-235) vs. Manuel Torres (+180); Lightweight
• Chris Duncan (-195) vs. Terrance McKinney (+150); Lightweight
• Maycee Barber (-180) vs. Karine Silva (+140); Women’s flyweight
• Nazim Sadykhov (+115) vs. Fares Ziam (-145); Lightweight

Early Prelims:

• Marvin Vettori (-120) vs. Brunno Ferreira (-110); Middleweight
• Edson Barboza (+200) vs. Jalin Turner (-265); Lightweight
• Ibo Aslan (+165) vs. Iwo Baraniewski (-215); Light Heavyweight
• Mansur Abdul-Malik (-1000) vs. Antonio Trocoli (+560); Middleweight
• Muhammad Naimov (+220) vs. Mairon Santos (+295); Featherweight

Ring walk time for Dvalishvili and Yan main event

The Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan fight card consists of 14 fights and will begin at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 6, 2025, with early prelim fights. The main event for the Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan fight is expected to be around 11:30 p.m. ET. However, the duration of the undercard will impact the actual start.

Where is UFC 323: Dvalishvili vs Yan?

UFC 323: Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan will be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.

UFC 323 live stream

The Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan prelims and early prelims fights will be available to stream on ESPN+ and Disney+, while the main card will be streamed on ESPN Pay-Per-View.

UFC 323 price

UFC events are available to ESPN+ subscribers. The cost of the service is $10.99 a month or $109.99 for the year. The PPV is available for an additional $79.99.

Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan: Tale of the tape

Saturday night’s Big Ten Championship game between the nation’s top two teams didn’t disappoint. And in a twist to the script, it was No. 2 Indiana to pull off its first win over Ohio State since 1988.

Indiana, which began the 2025 season as the losingest program in FBS history, won a Big Ten championship for the first time since 1967.

Indiana (13-0) will be the No. 1 team in Sunday’s College Football Playoff bracket reveal. Ohio State (12-1) will likely still land in the top four and receive a first-round bye.

In two seasons, Curt Cignetti has turned a perennial and historic loser into a playoff team in back-to-back years and now Big Ten champions.

‘This is the greatest turnaround in the history of our sport…,’ Fox’s Urban Meyer said postgame. ‘It’s not even close… This is the best coaching job I’ve ever seen in my life.’

The Hoosiers defense bottled up the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense and Fernando Mendoza made the throws he had to make to lead Indiana to a 13-10 win at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Buckeyes kicker Jayden Fielding missed a 27-yard field goal attempt with 2:48 left that would have tied the score.

In the Heisman Trophy showcase between leading contenders Julian Sayin and Mendoza, neither had a massive game, but both were efficient.

Sayin got Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate involved, but Indiana did a good job (for the most part) keeping the Buckeyes receivers in front of them.

Mendoza was solid for IU, bouncing back from a rough hit on the first play of the game that sent him briefly to the sideline. Mendoza hit Elijah Sarratt on his trademark back-shoulder touchdown in the third quarter to take the lead. It marked the first time Ohio State had trailed in a second half all season.

Mendoza’s pass on 3^rd-and-6 with 2:41 left to Charlie Becker for a 33-yard gain helped ice the game. Mendoza finished 15-of-23 for 222 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Sayin went 21-of-29 for 258 yards with a touchdown and interception.

Here’s how it happened:

HIT REFRESH FOR UPDATES.

Ohio State vs Indiana score

Ohio State vs Indiana football live updates

0:17 4Q: Ohio State needs a prayer

Indiana burns clock and the rest of Ohio State’s timeouts but have to punt the ball back to Buckeyes at their own 14-yard line.

2:00 4Q: Indiana 13, Ohio State 10

On 3rd-and-6 with 2:41 left Fernando Mendoza hits Charlie Becker again down the sideline for a 33-yard gain. A perfect pass. A Heisman moment. Wow. Buckeyes have just one timeout left.

2:48 4Q: Jayden Fielding shanks 27-yard FG attempt, Indiana still leads

On 3rd-and-1 Rolijah Hardy knocks away the pass in the end zone to force an Ohio State field goal. AND HE MISSES IT. Jayden Fielding hooks it from 27 yards out. INDIANA 13, OHIO STATE 10.

4:10 4Q: Buckeyes driving, burning up clock

A long, time-consuming drive from Ohio State as Julian Sayin starts to cook and a key Indiana penalty gives Buckeyes a first down deep inside Hoosiers territory. INDIANA 13, OHIO STATE 10.

10:45 4Q: Indiana flips field, punts back to Ohio State

Hoosiers get a few first downs and flip the field position. Indiana punts and Ohio State will start drive at their own 10-yard line. INDIANA 13, OHIO STATE 10.

END 3Q: Indiana 13, Ohio State 10

The Hoosiers are one quarter away from their first Big Ten championship since 1967. It’ll be 1st-and-10 for IU from their own 17-yard line after 12-yard completion to EJ Williams.

1:04 3Q: Review overturns Buckeyes’ first down on 4th-and-1

It’s a good response from the champions. Buckeyes’ first second-half deficit doesn’t last long. Julian Sayin engineers an efficient 12-play drive, mixing in his tight ends with Jeremiah Smith (who has over 100 yards receiving already).

OSU goes for it on 4th-and-1 from the Indiana 6-yard line, and Sayin sneaks forward and the call of first down is overturned on review. Indiana ball. Huge turn of events. INDIANA 13, OHIO STATE 10.

8:02 3Q: Fernando Mendoza hits Elijah Sarratt for go-ahead TD

TOUCHDOWN! Fernando Mendoza hits Elijah Sarratt on a back-shoulder fade in the end zone from 17 yards out. The Buckeyes are trailing in the second half for the first time all season.

The key play was on 3rd-and-2 deep in their own territory, Mendoza airs it out to Charlie Becker for 51 yards. Mendoza is 11-of-18 for 155 yards. INDIANA 13, OHIO STATE 10.

11:32 3Q: Hoosiers force punt to open half

Back-to-back sacks by Indiana including an in-the-grasp call, despite Julian Sayin spinning out of the tackle, forces a 3rd-and-27. The IU defense forces a punt on opening drive of the second half. OHIO STATE 10, INDIANA 6.

HALFTIME: Ohio State 10, Indiana 6

The Hoosiers have been able to move the ball on Ohio State, but have only three field goal attempts to show for it (two made, one missed).

Ohio State QB Julian Sayin has 109 passing yards and has gotten Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith involved, but Indiana is bending, not breaking.

0:30 2Q: Ohio State seems content with a modest first-half lead

Isaiah Jones gets his second sack of the day to torpedo this drive. Ohio State had three timeouts and had the ball near midfield but decided not to call timeout. OHIO STATE 10, INDIANA 6.

2:00 2Q: Ohio State 10, Indiana 6

2-minute timeout. Buckeyes have a 1st-and-10 at their 36-yard line. Ohio State gets the ball first after halftime, so this is a huge series for Indiana’s defense.

2:47 2Q: Hoosiers move the ball, have to settle for FG

On a 4th-and-2 from the Ohio State 39-yard line, Fernando Mendoza side-arms it to Riley Nowakowski for a first down to keep the drive alive. Buckeyes defensive end Caden Curry continues to eat in his return home, with another sack. He’s been everywhere for Ohio State and forces Indiana to settle for a Nico Radicic 32-yard field goal.

Hoosiers have moved the ball. Three field goal attempts on five drives so far. But can’t beat No. 1 with field goals. OHIO STATE 10, INDIANA 6.

10:08 2Q: Indiana holds Ohio State to short FG

Julian Sayin airs it out for Jeremiah Smith for a 54-yard strike, and Buckeyes get an extra 15 yards for an illegal hands to the face penalty. But an Isaiah Jones sack on 3rd-and-goal forces Ohio State into a short field goal from Jayden Fielding. Key hold there for the Hoosiers. OHIO STATE 10, INDIANA 3.

13:31 2Q: Nico Radicic misses his first FG of year

Indiana drive stalls with a third-down sack and Nico Radicic misses from 40 yards out. Uncharacteristic from Big Ten kicker of the year. Hoosiers can’t make mistakes if they want to beat defending national champs. OHIO STATE 7, INDIANA 3.

END 1Q: Ohio State 7, Indiana 3

A defensive pass interference on another deep shot from Indiana moves the ball 15 yards and then Kaelon Black busts loose for a 37-yard gain. IU will open second quarter at Buckeyes’ 22-yard line. OHIO STATE 7, INDIANA 3.

0:46 1Q: Julian Sayin finds Carnell Tate wide open for TD

TOUCHDOWN! Julian Sayin takes his time, eludes the rush and finds a wide open Carnell Tate in the end zone for a 9-yard score. Both teams turn interceptions into points. Hoosiers got a field goal, Buckeyes get a touchdown. OHIO STATE 7, INDIANA 3.

1:41 1Q: Ohio State’s Davison Igbinosun gets pick deep in Indiana territory

INTERCEPTION! Ohio State gets a turnover of its own. Lorenzo Styles blows up a WR screen pass and the ricochet of the ball lands in the hands of Buckeyes DB Davison Igbinosun. Ohio State ball at Indiana’s 25-yard line. INDIANA 3, OHIO STATE 0.

3:07 1Q: Indiana WR Omar Cooper Jr. injury update questionable

The Hoosiers standout receiver tweaked his right leg on the missed deep shot on their first drive. He went into the medical tent and is going back to the locker room. Questionable to return.

3:07 1Q: Indiana gets third-down sack, forces Buckeyes punt

Rolijah Hardy with a sack on 3rd-and-5 near midfield and the Hoosiers force a punt. Julian Sayin has been getting the ball to Jeremiah Smith (three catches already), but Indiana is keeping him in front of them. INDIANA 3, OHIO STATE 0.

6:51 1Q: Hoosiers turn turnover into points with FG

Indiana picks up one first down but has to settle for a Nico Radicic 29-yard field goal. Hoosiers on the board first. INDIANA 3, OHIO STATE 0.

8:57 1Q: Louis Moore intercepts Julian Sayin

INTERCEPTION! Louis Moore steps in front of a Julian Sayin third-down pass and returns it to Ohio State 23-yard line. INDIANA 0, OHIO STATE 0.

10:35 1Q: Caden Curry sack ends Indiana’s first drive

IU overcomes the Fernando Mendoza brief injury and picks up two first downs. Hoosiers take a deep shot from midfield to Omar Cooper, but receiver can’t come down with the catch. On third down, Caden Curry — the Greenwood, Indiana product — gets the sack and IU has to punt it away.

Buckeyes will start their first drive at their own 12-yard line. INDIANA 0, OHIO STATE 0.

14:51 1Q: Fernando Mendoza down with injury

Fernando Mendoza takes a shot from Ohio State DE Caden Curry and is down on the first play of the game. His younger brother Alberto comes in for one snap.

Fernando is back in the game. Keep on an eye on how he’s moving.

And we’re underway… Ohio State kickoff through the end zone.

Fox crew predictions clean sweep for Ohio State win vs Indiana

• Brady Quinn: Ohio State, 23-17
• Mark Ingram: Ohio State, 30-24
• Matt Leinart: Ohio State, 31-17
• Urban Meyer: Ohio State, 31-21

Pregame comments from Ryan Day, Curt Cignetti

Ohio State vs Indiana injury update: Availability report

What time does Ohio State vs Indiana start?

• Date: Saturday, Dec. 6
• Time: 8 p.m. ET
• Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana

Ohio State vs Indiana will kick off at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, Dec. 6 from Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.

What TV channel is Ohio State vs Indiana on today?

• TV channel: Fox
• Livestream: Fubo (free trial)

The Big Ten championship game between Ohio State and Indiana will be broadcast on Fox.

Streaming options for the game include Fubo, which carries Fox and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

Ohio State vs Indiana predictions for Big Ten championship

• Ohio State 27, Indiana 17: Curt Cignetti’s offense feasts on most Big Ten defenses. This is not your ordinary Big Ten defense, though. The Buckeyes keep winning with an anaconda defense that suffocates opponents. Pair that with steady-handed quarterback Julian Sayin and the best receiving corps in the country, and you get the nation’s most complete team. I’ve been on the Buckeyes to win the national championship since August. I’m not fading them now. — Blake Toppmeyer
• Indiana 27, Ohio State 24: I just can’t get over what the Ohio State defense has faced, instead of what it has done. Who have the Buckeyes played this season that could actually stress their defense? Texas? In Arch Manning’s first start? Washington? Illinois? Come on. The Hoosiers will be a completely different animal, a multiple offense with an accurate quarterback who can make every throw — and scramble and get critical yards. One more thing: Hoosiers have 34 sacks and have forced 24 turnovers. The defense will get enough stops, and Indiana will be the No.1 seed in the CFP. — Matt Hayes
• Ohio State 34, Indiana 16: Ohio State’s historically good defense is going to be tested by Indiana and possible Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. This is a group with no weak links, nearly unmatched depth and all-everything talent such as safety Caleb Downs, who might be the best pound-for-pound player in college football. The Buckeyes are on a collision course for a repeat national title and won’t be tripped up even by the mighty Hoosiers. — Paul Myerberg

Ohio State vs Indiana odds Big Ten championship

Odds courtesy of BetMGM, as of Thursday, Dec. 4:

• Spread: Ohio State (-4)
• Over/under: 47.5
• Moneyline: Ohio State -200 | Indiana +165

Ohio State football schedule 2025

Here’s a look at Ohio State’s schedule in 2025, including past scores.

• Saturday, Aug. 30: No. 2 Ohio State 14, No. 1 Texas 7
• Saturday, Sept. 6: No. 1 Ohio State 70,Grambling State 0
• Saturday, Sept. 13: No. 1 Ohio State 37, Ohio 9
• BYE
• Saturday, Sept. 27: No. 1 Ohio State 24, Washington 6*
• Saturday, Oct. 4: No. 1 Ohio State 42, Minnesota 3*
• Saturday, Oct. 11: No. 1 Ohio State 34, No. 17 Illinois 16*
• Saturday, Oct. 18: No. 1 Ohio State 34, Wisconsin 0*
• BYE
• Saturday, Nov. 1: No. 1 Ohio State 38, Penn State 14*
• Saturday, Nov. 8: No. 1 Ohio State 34, Purdue 10*
• Saturday, Nov. 15: No. 1 Ohio State 48, UCLA 10*
• Saturday, Nov. 22: No. 1 Ohio State 42, Rutgers 9*
• Saturday, Nov. 29: No. 1 Ohio State 27, No. 15 Michigan 9*
• Saturday, Dec. 6: No. 1 Ohio State vs No. 2 Indiana | Fox, 8 p.m. ET**
• * – denotes Big Ten game
• ** – denotes Big Ten championship game

Indiana football schedule 2025

Here’s a look at Indiana’s schedule in 2025, including past scores.

• Saturday, Aug. 30: No. 19 Indiana 27, Old Dominion 14
• Saturday, Sept. 6: No. 21 Indiana 56, Kennesaw State 9
• Friday, Sept. 12: No. 19 Indiana 73, Indiana State 0
• Saturday, Sept. 20: No. 17 Indiana 63, No. 8 Illinois 10*
• Saturday, Sept. 27: No. 12 Indiana 20, Iowa 15*
• BYE
• Saturday, Oct. 11: No. 7 Indiana 30, No. 2 Oregon 20*
• Saturday, Oct. 18: No. 3 Indiana 38, Michigan State 13*
• Saturday, Oct. 25: No. 2 Indiana 56, UCLA 6*
• Saturday, Nov. 1: No. 2 Indiana 55, Maryland 10*
• Saturday, Nov. 8: No. 2 Indiana 27, Penn State 24*
• Saturday, Nov. 15: No. 2 Indiana 31, Wisconsin 7*
• BYE
• Friday, Nov. 28: No. 2 Indiana 56, Purdue 3
• Saturday, Dec. 6: No. 1 Ohio State vs No. 2 Indiana | Fox, 8 p.m. ET**
• * – denotes Big Ten game
• ** – denotes Big Ten championship game

Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.

Tulane took down North Texas with ease in the American Conference championship game on Friday, Dec. 5 — and made program history in the process.

The No. 21 Green Wave (No. 20 in College Football Playoff rankings) defeated the No. 20 Mean Green (No. 24 CFP) 34-21 at home. The win puts Tulane in strong position to earn its first CFP appearance in program history.

The Green Wave rushed for 199 yards and three scores on 52 carries as a team. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff passed for 145 yards and rushed for 49 yards and two touchdowns in the win.

Perhaps more impressively is the fact Tulane held star North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker in check, with the redshirt freshman completing 21 of 34 passes for 294 yards with two touchdowns to three interceptions. The Green Wave forced five turnovers, including a pick-6 by Chris Rodgers in the third quarter.

The question now is whether Tulane can leverage that win to reach the CFP with its conference championship win? Here’s a look at the Green Wave’s chances:

Tulane football rankings: Can Green Wave make CFP?

Tulane put itself in strong position to earn one of the five conference championship bids in the 12-team CFP bracket on Dec. 5.

North Texas and Tulane entered the matchup as the two highest-ranked non-Power Four teams in the CFP rankings, with No. 25 James Madison behind the two American programs. With Tulane picking up a ranked win in the American title game, it should have no issues staying ahead of the Dukes in the rankings.

James Madison could still make the CFP, although it likely needs Duke to beat Virginia in the ACC championship game. If JMU stays ranked higher than the Blue Devils, then two non-Power Four teams would make the CFP as the final two highest-ranked conference champions.

North Texas vs. Tulane was essentially a CFP play-in game, with the Green Wave likely moving on to compete for a national championship as the No. 11 or 12 seed.

Tulane football schedule 2025

• Saturday, Aug. 30: Tulane 23, Northwestern 3
• Saturday, Sept. 6: Tulane 33, South Alabama 31
• Saturday, Sept. 13: Tulane 34, Duke 27
• Saturday, Sept. 20: Mississippi 45, Tulane 10
• Saturday, Sept. 27: Tulane 31, Tulsa 14 *
• Saturday, Oct. 4: BYE
• Thursday, Oct. 9: Tulane 26, East Carolina 19 *
• Saturday, Oct. 18: Tulane 24, Army 17 *
• Saturday, Oct. 25: BYE
• Thursday, Oct. 30: UTSA 48, Tulane 26 *
• Friday, Nov. 7: Tulane 38, Memphis 32 *
• Saturday, Nov. 15: Tulane 35, Florida Atlantic 24 *
• Saturday, Nov. 22: Tulane 37, Temple 13 *
• Saturday, Nov. 29: Tulane 27, Charlotte 0 *
• Friday, Dec. 5: Tulane vs North Texas | ABC, 8 p.m. **

* indicates American Conference game

** indicates American Conference championship

Kennesaw State is one of the feel-good stories of the 2025 college football season. And the story got even better Friday night. Behind first-yer coach Jerry Mack the Owls had already made a seven-win jump this season. On Friday, they added a Conference USA Championship game win in just the program’s second year in FBS.

‘A team that was 2-10, to turn it around and win 10 football games in one year. What a difference a year makes,’ Mack said postgame. ‘Who does that? Where I’m from, they say, ‘Where you at?”

A goal-line stand. A kicker forcing a fumble. A safety. A last-minute touchdown to win.

The CUSA Championship game had a little bit of everything — except some big-time offense. Kennesaw State and Jacksonville State entered Friday’s game averaging a combined 59 points per game. We didn’t get anywhere close to that, in Kennesaw State’s 19-15 win in Jacksonville, Alabama.

Kennesaw State (10-3) bottled up Jax State running back Cam Cook, the nation’s leading rusher. But Gamecocks’ QB Caden Creel hurt the Owls with his legs, rushing for 112 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown with 4:40 in the fourth quarter to give Jax State (8-5) its first lead.

But then KSU QB Amari Odom engineered a game-winning drive that included a 4^th-and-14 conversion and a 26-yard completion on 3^rd-and-27 that set up another 4^th-down conversion. With 50 seconds left, Odom hit Navelle Dean in the end zone for a touchdown  and the 19-15 win.

Here’s how it happened.

Kennesaw State vs Jax State football score

FINAL: Kennesaw State 19, Jacksonville 15

0:51 4Q: Kennesaw State 19, Jacksonville State 15

Kennesaw State gets into Jax State territory on its final drive and on 4th-and-14, KSU decides to go for it instead of attempting a 54-yard field goal potential tying field goal… and QB Amari Odom is flushed to his left and gets a massive first down pickup. Plus an unnecessary roughness, late hit penalty.

Odom then hits Navelle Dean for an 11-yard TOUCHDOWN. Really bold call from Jerry Mack on that 4th-and-14. Tip of the cap, sir.

2:00 4Q: Jacksonville State 15, Kennesaw State 12

Amari Odom hits Christian Moss down the middle on 3rd-and-27. He got 26 yards. 4th-and-1 when we come back from 2-minute timeout. Drama.

4:04 4Q: Jacksonville State 15, Kennesaw State 12

Caden Creel’s legs continue to drive Jax State forward. On 4th-and-2 at midfield, Creel runs for seven yards to keep drive alive. And then he breaks loose for a 19-yard touchdown run and the Gamecocks’ first lead of the game. Looks like Jax State got away with a false start on the touchdown play, no call.

On the 2-point conversion to take a three-point lead, Creel hits 6-8 receiver Deondre Johnson in the corner of the end zone. Smart. He’s tall. And makes a great grab.

8:20 4Q: Kennesaw State 12, Jacksonville State 7

Not a great sequence for Kennesaw State. Coleman Bennett loses two yards on first down. Then a 3-yard pass is followed up by a sack and loss of nine yards. Punt back to Jax State. Momentum is swinging.

10:20 4Q: Kennesaw State 12, Jacksonville State 7

TOUCHDOWN! Jax State’s best offense hasn’t been the nation’s leading rusher, but the legs of quarterback Caden Creel. Creel has 84 yards on 12 carries, but Cam Cook finally finds some room and walks into the end zone with a 1-yard score. Gamecocks turn the fumble into points. Needed that.

12:24 4Q: Kennesaw State 12, Jacksonville State 0

Oh my! On the free kick after the safety, Jax State kicker Garrett Rippa makes a big play, forcing a fumble on the return. Kennesaw State’s Davis Bryson had a good return going before the kicker came up with the goods. The ball was jarred loose on the hit, popped into the air and recovered by the Gamecocks. Just the break they needed.

12:33 4Q: Kennesaw State 12, Jacksonville State 0

SAFETY. Marcus Patterson tackles Cam Cook in the end zone for two points for the Owls. So the gamble to go on fourth down doesn’t come back to bite Kennesaw State. Cook, the nation’s leading rusher, has 35 yards on 14 carries.

12:40 4Q: Kennesaw State 10, Jacksonville State 0

Amari Odom tries a QB sneak on 4th-and-goal from the 1-yard line and gets stuffed. Play is under review to see if he was pushed into the end zone before his forward progress was stopped. A massive play. If he’s in, KSU takes a three-score lead. But review upholds the call, short. It stays a two-score game. Jacksonville State ball in shadow of their own end zone.

End 3Q: Kennesaw State 10, Jacksonville State 0

Owls will begin the fourth quarter in Jax State territory and looking for a knockout blow.

4:31 3Q: Kennesaw State 10, Jacksonville State 0

A missed field goal from 35 yards out for Jax State. Gamecocks still scoreless. Worth a reminder: JSU is Conference USA’s top scoring offense (30.2 ppg).

9:57 3Q: Kennesaw State 10, Jacksonville State 0

Britton Williams hits a field goal from 38 yards out to extend the Owls’ lead. Amari Odom and Coleman Bennett did much of the heavy lifting on the first drive of the second half.

15:00 3Q: Kennesaw State 7, Jacksonville State 0

KSU WR Gabriel Benyard didn’t come out for the second half. He took a brutal hit late in the first half that drew a targeting call. His is the Owls’ leading receiver on the season.

HALFTIME: Kennesaw State 7, Jacksonville State 0

A scary hit from Trevor Woods, who lays out defenseless Kennesaw State receiver Gabriel Benyard and gets called for targeting. Just a brutal hit. Woods is ejected for the hit.

With time winding out in the half, KSU QB Amari Odom is called for intentional grounding with comes with a 10-second runoff and the half is over.

An unexpected defensive battle.

6:49 2Q: Kennesaw State 7, Jacksonville State 0

Jax State QB Caden Creel scrambles for 34 yards on 3rd-and-25 and gets the Gamecocks in business. But on 4th-and-1 from the KSU 9-yard line, Cam Cook is stopped for a four-yard loss. Turnover on downs.

13:03 2Q: Kennesaw State 7, Jacksonville State 0

Coleman Bennett punches it in from three yards out to break the deadlock. An 11-play, 80-yard drive led by Amari Odom gives us our first points of the night.

End 1Q: Jacksonville State 0, Kennesaw State 0

Owls are driving into JSU territory, will have a 2nd-and-9 from the Gamecocks’ 35-yard line.

2:36 1Q: Jacksonville State 0, Kennesaw State 0

INTERCEPTION! A 10-play, 61-yard drive ends with a pick in the end zone. JSU QB Caden Creel is intercepted by Milon Jones.

7:47 1Q: Jacksonville State 0, Kennesaw State 0

We’re trading punts. That’s two punts for each team. It’s a slow burn tonight in Jacksonville.

11:17 1Q: Jacksonville State 0, Kennesaw State 0

Owls pick up a first down before the Gamecocks tighten up and force a punt.

13:42 1Q: Jacksonville State 0, Kennesaw State 0

We’re underway, and the Owls force a three-and-out to get us started.

What time does Kennesaw State vs Jacksonville State football start?

• Date: Friday, Dec. 5
• Time: 7 p.m. ET
• Where: AmFirst Stadium (Jacksonville, Alabama)

Kennesaw State and Jacksonville State will kick off at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 5 from AmFirst Stadium in Jacksonville, Alabama.

What TV channel is Kennesaw State vs Jacksonville State on today?

• TV channel: CBS Sports Network
• Livestream: Fubo (free trial)

The C-USA championship game between Kennesaw State and Jacksonville State will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.

Streaming options for the game include Fubo, which carries CBSSN and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

Conference USA Championship game predictions

• Kennesaw State 31, Jacksonville State 27: Although Jacksonville State got the better of the Owls in their first matchup, Jerry Mack has shown his mettle this season. Kennesaw State is able to get the upper hand in this one with Amari Odom bouncing back from his three-interception outing in the first go-round. Protecting the ball gives the Owls the edge, and they avenge their one conference loss this season and cap off a monumental turnaround. — Kevin Skiver
• Jacksonville State 35, Kennesaw State 27: Despite losing coach Rich Rodriguez to West Virginia, Jacksonville State rolls to its second straight Conference USA championship behind a three-touchdown performance from running back Cam Cook to run his season total to 18. — Ehsan Kassim
• Kennesaw State 35, Jacksonville State 30: This one feels like a toss-up, but I’ll side with Kennesaw State getting its revenge against Jacksonville State and winning its first Conference USA title in just its second year as a member of the Division I FBS level. To do that, though, the Owls will need to be able to contain Jacksonville State running back Cam Cook, who ran for 132 rushing yards and a touchdown in the first meeting. — John Leuzzi

Conference USA Championship game betting odds

• Moneyline: Kennesaw State (-145)
• Spread: Kennesaw State (-2.5)
• Over/under: 60.5

Kennesaw State football schedule 2025

Here’s a look at Kennesaw State’s schedule in 2025, including past scores.

• Friday, Aug. 29: Wake Forest 10, Kennesaw State 9
• Saturday, Sept. 6: Indiana 56, Kennesaw State 9
• Saturday, Sept. 13: Kennesaw State 27, Merrimack 13
• Saturday, Sept. 20: Kennesaw State 28, Arkansas State 21
• Saturday, Sept. 27: Kennesaw State 24, Middle Tennessee 16*
• BYE
• Thursday, Oct. 9: Kennesaw State 35, Louisiana Tech 7*
• BYE
• Tuesday, Oct. 21: Kennesaw State 45, FIU 26*
• Tuesday, Oct. 28: Kennesaw State 33, UTEP 20*
• Saturday, Nov. 8: Kennesaw State 24, New Mexico State 21*
• Saturday, Nov. 15: Jacksonville State 35, Kennesaw State 26
• Saturday, Nov. 22: Kennesaw State 41, Montana State 34
• Saturday, Nov. 29: Kennesaw State 48, Liberty 42 (OT)*
• Friday, Dec. 5: Kennesaw State vs Jacksonville State | CBS Sports Network**
• * – denotes Conference-USA game
• ** – denotes Conference-USA championship game

Jacksonville State football schedule 2025

Here’s a look at Jacksonville State’s schedule in 2025, including past scores.

• Thursday, Aug. 28: UCF 17, Jacksonville State 10
• Saturday, Sept. 6: Jacksonville State 34, Liberty 24*
• Saturday, Sept. 13: Georgia Southern 41, Jacksonville State 34
• Saturday, Sept. 20: Jacksonville State 45, Murray State 10
• Saturday, Sept. 27: Southern Miss 42, Jacksonville State 25
• BYE
• Thursday, Oct. 9: Jacksonville State 29, Sam Houston 27*
• Wednesday, Oct. 15: Jacksonville State 38, Delaware 25*
• BYE
• Saturday, Nov. 8: Jacksonville State 30, UTEP 27*
• Saturday, Nov. 15: Jacksonville State 35, Kennesaw State 26*
• Saturday, Nov. 22: FIU 27, Jacksonville State 21*
• Saturday, Nov. 29: Jacksonville State 37, Western Kentucky 34*
• Friday, Dec. 5: Kennesaw State vs Jacksonville State | CBS Sports Network**
• * – denotes Conference-USA game
• ** – denotes Conference-USA championship game

Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.

Anthony Davis went to the ground and was clutching his left knee after a play in the third quarter of the Dallas Mavericks’ game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The apparent injury occurred as Davis tightly defended Thunder big man Chet Holmgren. Davis did get up under his own power and walked to the bench, but he repeatedly grabbed at the knee and he did not play the final six-and-a-half minutes of the third quarter.

The Prime Video broadcast showed Davis on the bench with his knee heavily wrapped.

Davis did return for the start of the fourth quarter, perhaps a bit of a surprise given the Mavericks were down by 30 points after three – but seeing him back on the court was certainly a welcome sign for Dallas.

The 10-time All-Star has struggled with a litany of injuries since being traded to the Mavericks, and he was having a tough game before the injury. He did not score in his first 20 minutes, going 0-for-6 from the field and missing both his free throws.

Davis finally did make a basket in the fourth quarter but that was it. He had two points on 1-for-9 shooting with eight rebounds and six assists. He played 24 minutes. Afterward, he told reporters he was ‘fine.’

Could there be two Group of Five programs in the College Football Playoff this year?

At the start of the season, it seemed a crazy thought: But it’s also one close to playing out with the CFP field now at 12 teams and No. 19 James Madison (No. 25 in College Football Playoff rankings) doing its part by winning its first Sun Belt Conference championship game.

Knight also recorded the longest rush and longest touchdown score in the Sun Belt championship game with a 73-yard rushing touchdown on the first play of James Madison’s fourth drive of the night in the second quarter.

So, what’s now standing in the Dukes’ way of playing for a national championship?

Here’s what to know about whether James Madison can make the College Football Playoff, including what its path to the CFP looks like:

Can James Madison make College Football Playoff?

There’s a path for James Madison to make the College Football Playoff, but the Dukes need help.

They entered Week 15 needing two things to go in their favor to create the possibility of making the CFP, which historically has been dominated by Power Four conference programs. James Madison did its part with a win over Troy in the Sun Belt championship.

Now, the Dukes await to see whether they can get the help they need: a Duke win over No. 17 Virginia (No. 17 in College Football Playoff rankings) in the ACC championship game.

If the Blue Devils win the ACC, James Madison’s chances of getting into the CFP increase: A Blue Devils win would knock the Cavaliers from being one of the five highest-ranked conference champions, creating the possibility the Dukes could instead take their place.

That’s how James Madison could steal one of the other reserved for the highest-ranked conference champions, as it likely will be ranked behind another Group of Five conference champion — either No. 20 Tulane or No. 24 North Texas, of the American Conference — in the final bracket.

All told, James Madison’s CFP hopes are entirely dependent on whether Duke can win the ACC championship. Of course, there also is the possibility that the selection committee would jump Duke, unranked in the penultimate top 25 rankings, ahead of James Madison.

James Madison football ranking: Where are Dukes ranked in CFP top 25?

James Madison broke into the CFP top 25 rankings at No. 25 in the CFP selection committee’s penultimate rankings release on Tuesday, Dec. 2. It was the first time this season that the committee has included the Dukes in the rankings.

James Madison football schedule

Here’s a look at James Madison’s schedule in 2025:

• Saturday, Aug. 30: James Madison 45, Weber State 10
• Friday, Sept. 5: Louisville 28, James Madison 14
• Friday, Sept. 13: BYE
• Saturday, Sept. 20: James Madison 31, Liberty 13
• Saturday, Sept. 27: James Madison 35, Georgia Southern 10*
• Saturday, Oct. 4: James Madison 14, Georgia State 7*
• Saturday, Oct. 11: James Madison 24, Louisiana 14*
• Saturday, Oct. 18: James Madison 63, Old Dominion 27*
• Saturday, Oct. 25: BYE
• Tuesday, Oct. 28: James Madison 52, Texas State 20*
• Saturday, Nov. 8: James Madison 35, Marshall 23*
• Saturday, Nov. 15: James Madison 58,Appalachian State 10*
• Saturday, Nov. 22: James Madison 24,Washington State 20
• Saturday, Nov. 29: James Madison 59, Coastal Carolina 10*
• Friday, Dec. 5: James Madison 31, Troy 14 **

* Denotes Sun Belt game

** Denotes Sun Belt championship game

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.