The College Football Playoff is heating up as just four teams remain in contention for the title, with a championship looming on January 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The semifinal matchups kick off Thursday night at 7:30 PM ET, featuring No. 6 Ole Miss competing against No. 10 Miami in the Fiesta Bowl. The victors will advance to face the winners of the No. 1 Indiana versus No. 5 Oregon Peach Bowl clash on Friday evening.

A title reign by either Indiana or Oregon—the Big Ten teams—would represent the third consecutive season with a different champion from the conference. Alternatively, a Miami victory would mark the ACC’s first championship since Clemson in 2018. On the other hand, an Ole Miss win would note the SEC’s fourth distinct champion since 2019, joining LSU, Alabama, and Georgia.

Matchup: No. 10 Miami vs. No. 6 Ole Miss

When: Thursday at 7:30 PM on ESPN, fuboTV (trial available) *If Miami fails to break down Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss effectively, Ole Miss is likely to succeed. However, if Miami’s defensive front, including Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor, puts Chambliss under pressure, the Hurricanes may secure a victory. Ole Miss has exhibited explosive offensive performances, scoring over 30 points in the last eight games. Pick: Over 51.5 – Brandon Marcello

Matchup: No. 1 Indiana vs. No. 5 Oregon

When: Friday at 7:30 PM on ESPN, fuboTV (trial available) *Despite the challenges of facing a team twice, Indiana is the favored squad to emerge victorious again, thanks to the talents of quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Pick: Indiana -3.5 – John Talty

For comprehensive coverage of these thrilling matchups, join our experts as they present their insights and predictions.