The most flavorful stretch of the college football calendar is taking shape, with official announcements confirming the return of three beloved bowl games: the Pop-Tarts Bowl, Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, and Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl.
Pop-Tarts Bowl
The Pop-Tarts Bowl — arguably the internet's most viral postseason game — returns for a third year under its current name on Saturday, Dec. 27 at 3:30 p.m. ET, airing nationally on ABC. The game will again pit representatives from the ACC and Big 12, continuing a 12-year tradition. Last year’s 42-41 Iowa State win over Miami delivered not only the closest finish in bowl history but also a social media frenzy after the Cyclones literally devoured the Pop-Tarts mascot in celebration.
“This game isn’t just a matchup — it’s a moment,” Florida Citrus Sports officials said, highlighting the one-of-a-kind toaster trophy and quarterback Rocco Becht’s late-game heroics as examples of how the Pop-Tarts Bowl has transcended sport.
Cheez-It Citrus Bowl
Just four days later, the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl celebrates its 80th anniversary with a New Year’s Eve showdown between top-tier programs from the SEC and Big Ten. Scheduled for 3 p.m. ET on Dec. 31, the game will serve as a marquee lead-in to that evening’s College Football Playoff quarterfinals. First played in 1947, the Citrus Bowl will honor its historic roots all season long. Last year's edition saw Illinois edge South Carolina 21-17, with running back Josh McCray sealing MVP honors behind a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Indepenndence Bowl
Meanwhile, Shreveport's Independence Stadium will host the 49th Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl on Tuesday, Dec. 30 at 1 p.m. CT, marking the game’s latest kickoff since 2013. Known for its rich community impact — including an estimated $30 million in annual economic benefit — the bowl continues to spotlight Shreveport-Bossier on the national stage.
"The December 30th afternoon game should provide us with a great opportunity to promote the Independence Bowl, Radiance Technologies and the Shreveport-Bossier community,” said Bowl Foundation Chair Sarah Giglio.
Beyond the gridiron, Independence Bowl festivities include the 14th annual Youth Football Clinic on June 7 and the 15th annual Kickoff Dinner on August 18, featuring coaching legend Mack Brown as keynote speaker.
Tickets for all three games will open to the public following bowl selections on Sunday, Dec. 7, with early access already available through Florida Citrus Sports and the Independence Bowl Foundation.
From frosted mascots to storied legacies, bowl season 2025 is already shaping up to be unforgettable, now the question is can Kentucky get back there?