Updated on: January 2, 2024 / 04:17 PM

CFP National Championship 2024 - Date, Time, TV Channels & Streaming Options

For fans wondering if there is any football on TV tonight, the answer is YES. The spotlight is on the highly anticipated CFP National Championship which is set to be an epic showdown between the top-ranked Michigan Wolverines and the second-seeded Washington Huskies. The game, taking place at NRG Stadium in Houston, features two undefeated teams, each with a 14-0 record, battling for their first national title in the playoff era. Here we will provide you with the best TV- and streaming options for the CFP National Championship, as well as a comprehensive championship preview.

CFP National Championship 2024

Date and Time: Monday, January 8, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. ET
Venue: NRG Stadium (72 220), Houston
TV/Streaming: ESPN, ESPN.com, and the ESPN app
Teams: No. 1 Michigan Wolverines (14-0) vs. No. 2 Washington Huskies (14-0)
Team Form (Michigan): Undefeated; won Rose Bowl in overtime against Alabama.
Team Form (Washington): Undefeated; dominated Texas in Sugar Bowl.
Head-to-Head Record: Michigan leads 8-5 against Washington
Notable: Michigan seeks its first national title since 1997; Washington since 1991

Road to the CFP National Championship

Michigan Wolverines:

Michigan earned its spot in the title game with a thrilling overtime victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Rose Bowl. The Wolverines have been consistent favorites throughout the season. They have demonstrated resilience, especially in high-pressure situations, as evidenced by their performance in the Rose Bowl where they scored 14 points in the first half and a critical score in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter.

Washington Huskies:

Washington, on the other hand, has thrived as the underdog. They secured their championship game berth with a commanding performance against the Texas Longhorns in the Sugar Bowl. Washington's offense, led by Heisman Trophy runner-up Michael Penix Jr., has been particularly dominant, posing a significant challenge for Michigan's defense. Penix has shown exceptional skill in passing, and Washington’s offense is known for its powerful aerial attacks.

Team Statistics

Michigan Wolverines:

Overall Record: 14-0
Points Per Game: 36.00
Total Points Scored: 504
First Downs (Total): 282
Rushing Yards: 2,233
Average Rushing Yards Per Game: 159.5
Rushing Touchdowns: 36
Passing (Att-Comp-Int): 342-250-5
Passing Yards: 3,065
Average Passing Yards Per Game: 218.93
Passing Touchdowns: 24
Total Offense: 5,298 yards
Average Total Yards Per Game: 378.4
Total Touchdowns Scored: 65
Opponents' Points Per Game: 10.21
Opponents' Total Points Scored: 143.

Washington Huskies:

Overall Record: 13-0
Passing Yards Per Game: 350.0
Rushing Yards Per Game: 123.6
Total Yards Per Game: 473.6
Total Passing Yards: 4,470
Completion Percentage: 66.1%
Passing Touchdowns: 35
Rushing Yards: 1,628
Rushing Touchdowns: 26
Total Points Scored: 490
Total Offensive Yards: 6,098
Total Yards Per Play: 7.2

Key Players and Matchups:

Michigan's Offense: It remains to be seen which Michigan offense will show up: the one that leaned heavily on passing during the early season, or the more recent iteration that has focused more on the run game. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Blake Corum are key players for Michigan. Corum, in particular, has been a consistent scorer and is likely to make significant contributions in the championship game.
Washington's Offense: Michael Penix Jr. is undoubtedly a central figure for Washington. The Huskies' passing game, which averages 343.8 yards per game, will be critical. Receiver Rome Odunze, with 81 catches for 1,428 yards this season, will also be pivotal. The Wolverines' defense, which has been effective against the pass, will have their hands full with Washington’s dynamic offense.

Long-Awaited Trophy for both Sides

Michigan is searching for its first national title since 1997, while Washington last won in 1991. Historically, Michigan holds an 8-5 advantage over Washington, including wins in their last two meetings. An interesting subplot is Washington's impending move to the Big Ten, which will add another layer to this rivalry in the coming years.

Conclusion

This championship game is not just a battle between two elite teams but also a clash of contrasting styles and narratives. Michigan's balanced approach and experience in high-pressure games go up against Washington's explosive offense and underdog spirit. The Wolverines' defense, particularly their ability to handle Penix's passing prowess, will be crucial, while the Huskies will need to maintain their offensive momentum against a sturdy Michigan defense.

It's a matchup that promises excitement, strategic depth, and possibly a historic conclusion to the season for either team.

Author: Dan Anderson