Russell Westbrook passed basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson on the NBA’s all-time assist list as the Sacramento Kings defeated the Dallas Mavericks, 113-107, on Dec. 27 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.

Westbrook led the team with 21 points and nine assists, including 5-of-9 from 3-point distance. Keon Ellis also scored 21 points and five made 3s. The Kings got a huge boost from rookie center Maxime Raynaud, who had 19 points, six rebounds and two blocks on 60% shooting from the field.

‘I’m truly blessed and thankful to the man above for just allowing me and gifting me with a talent to go out and play basketball,’ Westbrook said to reporters. ‘It’s an honor. Magic is one of the greats. … Growing up in inner-city Los Angeles you know Magic did a lot for the underserved and he continues to do a lot. It’s something that I kind of modeled and wanted to make sure the philanthropy side was done.’

He added: ‘For him that is something that I’m grateful for, to be able to pass him because he’s such a legend in so many different ways.’

Another career milestone for Westbrook was passing the 2,000th steal mark in his career, where he sits at No. 15 behind Mookie Blaylock. He’s third among active players behind LeBron James and Chris Paul.

It’s something he never thought would be possible.

‘That’s why I don’t want to take credit. I can’t even imagine,’ Westbrook said. ‘I grew up wanting to play football. … I always knew if given an opportunity to be somebody I would take full advantage of it. That’s why every time I step on the floor I don’t take anything for granted. I don’t take plays (off) or anything for granted because this was given to me not just for basketball but to use a platform to be able to help and inspire people.’

He continued: ‘So I hope the way I play the game, I hope the way people see me competing, yes the record’s great but I hope it inspires other people and people across the world to do great things in their lives as well.’

Rookie Cooper Flagg led the Mavericks with 23 points. P.J. Washington had 17 points and four blocks on the afternoon. Sharp shooter Klay Thompson had 14 points off the bench and Naji Marshall chipped in with 11.

While the Kings improved to 8-23 on the season, the Mavs fell to 12-21.

Here are highlights from the Kings and Mavericks game on Saturday, Dec. 27:

Kings vs. Mavericks highlights

1st quarter highlights

Keon Ellis got the start today after seeing his game action and playing minutes become sporadic.

Ellis opened the quarter with 13 points, making his first four shots including back-to-back 3-point buckets on passes from veterans Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan.

Westbrook passed Magic Johnson on the all-time assists leaders list to become No. 7 in NBA history. He had five points and four assists in the first quarter to help the Kings jump out to a 17-point lead.

The Mavericks, who went on a responding run, found themselves down 31-23 at the end of the period.

2nd quarter highlights

The Kings kept their pressure up defensively. Offensively, guys continued to share the ball and attack the Mavericks defense.

Guys who came off the bench entered the game ready to play. Despite his name swirling in trade rumors, Malik Monk came off the bench to provide a spark for the Kings.

Monk made a mid-range step-back, had active hands-on defense that turned into easy buckets whether for him or teammates filling the lane on fastbreaks. He scored four points in nine minutes.

The Mavericks were afforded scoring efforts from multiple players. P.J. Washington led Dallas at the half with nine points, Naji Marshall tallied seven, Daniel Gafford and Max Christie each had six.

Sacramento had three players in double-figures at half: Ellis (13), Westbrook (12) and rookie center Maxime Raynaud (11). Kings led 59-44 at half.

3rd quarter highlights

Both teams opened the second half trading baskets. Westbrook and Raynaud continued to add to their totals, but Dallas would not go away quietly, opening the third quarter on a 11-7 run the first three minutes.

The Mavericks poured on and looked to mount a comeback, cutting the deficit to three with 6:05 in the third quarter behind output from Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg, who scored 15 of his 17 points in the third period.

The Kings came out of that timeout and made consecutive threes, got stops defensively and took back control of the game, going on a 9-0 run to put Sacramento up 80-68 with 3:20 left in the third quarter.

The Kings led at the end of the third quarter, 88-77, following a Jaden Hardy 24-foot three-point step back jump shot with 1.2 seconds left.

4th quarter highlights

Kings’ rookie center Dylan Cardwell, proving to be an energy guy for Sacramento, opened the fourth quarter with a big block at the rim defending a dunk attempt from Dwight Powell.

Cardwell, a couple of plays later, threw down an alley-oop jam on a pass from Dennis Schroder and turned to fire up the crowd and his teammates as he ran back on defense.

Rookie forward Nique Clifford has seen more playing with the absence of Zach LaVine and Keegan Murray, both out with injuries. Clifford provided a spark off the bench with eight points, nine rebounds.

The Mavericks outscored the Kings in the second half, 63-52, but Sacramento was able to hang on for the win.

Kings: Keys to victory review

Lean on veterans: The veterans have been giving their all for Sacramento, showing the young guys how to be professional and play through the adversity of losing games. DeMar DeRozan has averaged 25.8 points, 4.8 assists and four rebounds for the Kings in his last five games. Russell Westbrook, who has had a double-double in four of his last five games has averaged 16.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and seven assists in that span. Westbrook: 21 points, 9 assists.
Youth movement and energy: The Kings have begun to shift into allowing their young players to get some playing experience, whether due to injury or through signs of promise they’ve shown in practice and games. The team needs to continue to allow the development of Maxime Raynaud, Nique Clifford and Dylan Cardwell. It might not result in many short term wins, but the real victory will be the players the Kings grow to become in the future. That starts now. Raynaud: 19 points, 2 blocks; Cardwell: 8 rebounds, 2 blocks, +4; Clifford: 8 points, 9 rebounds.
Defensive pressure and transition: The Kings have looked more active defensively in recent games, and it’s started with their intensity on the end which turned into transition baskets on fast breaks. Look for the Kings to keep those hands and feet active, something head coach Doug Christie preaches. Kings defense forced 19 turnovers, and had 16 steals and 7 blocks.
Team buy-in, stay ready: Some of the guys on the team have seen their minutes chopped. Once key rotation players such as Malik Monk and Keon Ellis have seen their playing time become sporadic and inconsistent compared to what their accustomed to. It’s huge for team morale that whether they play five minutes or 45 minutes, they remain bought in and stay ready for their name to be called. Ellis: 21 points, 5 made 3’s in 32 minutes as a starter; Monk: 7 points, provided energy in 19 minutes.

The Fresno State Bulldogs got the best of the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks, prevailing 18-3 in the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl at Arizona Stadium in Tucson, Arizona, on Saturday, Dec. 27.

‘It’s awesome,’ E.J. Warner said in his postgame interview. ‘It’s my first bowl game with these guys here. I love them all. A lot of ups and downs this year but we persevered, got out with nine wins. (I’m) happy for all these guys, happy to be a part of it this year.’

Whenever the Bulldogs needed a big gain on offense, Warner — a transfer from Rice University in Houston — found senior receiver Josiah Freeman. Freeman ended the game with seven catches and 143 yards.

The lone touchdown of the game came from tight end Richie Anderson III on a 2-yard catch in the fourth quarter.

The Bulldogs racked up 391 total yards and held the RedHawks to 192 yards in the game. Hats off to a Fresno State defense that didn’t allow any touchdowns and forced two turnovers: a fumble caused by senior linebacker Jadon Pearson and recovered by Fresno State’s Jakari Embry, who also had an interception in the game.

Fresno State head coach Matt Entz becomes one of the few coaches to win a bowl game in their first year as a college head coach.

‘Hard-fought long season,’ Entz said.

Here are the highlights from Fresno State’s win over Miami in the Arizona Bowl:

Game highlights

1st quarter highlights

Miami drove down field on its first possession of the game behind back-to-back gains from sophomore receiver Keith Reynolds. He opened the game with 32- and 9-yard runs to put the RedHawks in Fresno State territory before settling for a field goal by kicker Dom Dzioban.

The Miami of Ohio defense forced a three and out returning to offense. RedHawks quarterback Thomas Gotkowski threw the game’s first interception with 8:12 remaining to Fresno State’s Jakari Embry of Gadsden, Alabama.

The Bulldogs offense showed flashes of promise, but could not get much going in the opening quarter. They were held to 45 total yards on offense, compared to Miami’s 85 yards. Yet the Bulldogs only trailed 3-0.  

It’s been a roller coaster season at Fresno State, which started 5-1, then dropped back-to-back games before going 3-1 in its last four games.  

2nd quarter highlights

Fresno State started to pick it up in the second quarter, converting on first downs, something the Bulldogs didn’t do in the opening 15 minutes.

The Bulldogs made their way down to the red zone before scoring on a 28-yard field goal from senior Dylan Lynch to tie the game, 3-3, with 7:54 in the second quarter.

Fresno State’s defense looked to come alive in the second quarter, forcing a Miami punt which turned into good field position for the Bulldogs after a bad snap pinned the RedHawks punter in his own end zone. He attempted to get the punt off but it was blocked and recovered by Fresno State on Miami’s 10-yard line.

Fresno State ended the drive with a Lynch field goal to take a 6-3 lead.

Miami of Ohio drove down the field on a mix of runs and passes, but turned the ball over on a fumble by Redhawk Jordan Brunson caused by senior linebacker Jadon Pearson recovered by Fresno State’s Embry.

The Bulldogs took advantage getting back to redzone on back-to-back passes from E.J. Warner, who threw a short pass to Josiah Freeman who took it for a 47-yard gain. The next play Warner found tight end Ezekiel Avit for 20 yards.  

Unable to find the end zone, Fresno State settled for a third field goal from Lynch. The Bulldogs led at halftime, 9-3.

3rd quarter highlights

Miami of Ohio was unable to get anything going on in its first possession of the third quarter. The Bulldog defense forced a punt.

The Warner-Freeman connection caused problems for Miami all day. Warner found Freeman in the third on a short pass that Freeman turned into a big 51-yard gain, putting the Bulldogs closer to scoring position.

That play set up a field goal, but Lynch missed the chip shot from 28 yards.

The RedHawks took over on offense but made nothing of it, punting after failing on first down attempts. However, their defense returned the favor and forced the Bulldogs to punt.

Fresno State’s defense continued to stifle Miami of Ohio, forcing another punt. The third quarter ended with Fresno State ahead, 9-3.

4th quarter highlights

The Bulldogs scored the first touchdown of the game with 11:12 left in the fourth quarter when Warner found Richie Anderson III on a 2-yard pass. Fresno State failed on its ensuing two-point conversion attempt and led the game, 15-3.

The Bulldogs defense continued to stifle Miami of Ohio. Lynch tacked on one more field goal to seal the deal, giving Fresno State an 18-3 victory.

Jeff Monken will not be running in a rundown for the Boston Red Sox anytime soon.

Shortly after the clock hit 0:00 at Fenway Park, the Army football coach embarked on a run across Fenway Park from his players following the Black Knights’ defeat of UConn in the Fenway Bowl, as he did not want anything to do with a cold Gatorade bath on a frigid December afternoon in Boston. His efforts ultimately failed, as he was taken to the ground and bathed in what appeared to be green Gatorade.

‘They’re trying to catch the coach with the Gatorade,’ one of the ESPN broadcasters said.

Monken is the second notable head coach to attempt dodging the postgame Gatorade celebration bath in the last 24 hours, with the other being UTSA’s Jeff Traylor following the Roadrunners’ win over FIU in the First Responder Bowl on Friday, Dec. 27.

The Black Knights bounced back from the defeat to Navy in the Army-Navy Game with a commanding 41-10 win over the Huskies inside the MLB ballpark on Saturday, Dec. 27. It is just the third win this season for Army that did not finish in a one-score game.

Monken’s squad relied on its bread-and-butter, its run game, to pull out its second consecutive bowl win, as Army finished with 368 rushing yards on 56 attempts. Quarterback Cale Hellums finished with a pair of touchdowns on 45 yards rushing and 15 carries, along with a 40-yard passing touchdown to Noah Short. Freshman Godspower Nwawuihe had a breakout game, as he finished with 171 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns on 12 carries.

Army’s win marks its sixth bowl win under Monken, improving his bowl record to 6-1 in his 12 seasons at West Point.

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.

Penn State football’s 2025 season ended on a high note with a win over Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl.

It’s a win for the Nittany Lions that closes a season that got away from them after being a preseason top-three-ranked team. After the game, interim coach Terry Smith got emotional during a postgame interview with ESPN’s Taylor McGregor inside Yankee Stadium.

‘I love this group. They’re just a special group of guys. This is the greatest moment in my life,’ Smith told McGregor. ‘It’s just a great moment for me, my family. God, I said I wasn’t going to do that (cry) again, but I’m just so happy for our guys.’

He added: ‘I love Penn State. I love football. And the game and Penn State have done amazing things for me and my family. I’m just thankful and grateful.’

Saturday’s win over Clemson closes out Smith’s run as interim coach tenure with a 4-3 record since he took over for James Franklin, who was fired on Oct. 12 following an 0-3 start to Big Ten play. Since beginning his stint with an 0-3 record, he led the Nittany Lions to four straight wins, including three wins to end the regular season and become bowl eligible.

In the winding seconds of the Pinstripe Bowl, Penn State fans began chanting Smith’s name, a gesture that highlights the job Smith did in his interim stint to salvage a season that once had national championship aspirations. The chants resurfaced during the trophy presentation at Yankee Stadium.

‘We dictated the terms of the last four games. I can’t be more proud of these guys, these kids. They played their hearts out,’ Smith said. ‘What a resilient group. They could have laid down and quit. They didn’t have to play. They didn’t have to come show up here at the Pinstripe Bowl, but they did.

‘They played really, really hard. It’s just a testament of Penn State and the character it builds coming to a great university like that.’

Smith, a former Penn State wide receiver and a member of Franklin’s staff since 2013, interviewed for the full-time coaching position but ultimately was not chosen, as Penn State hired Matt Campbell away from Iowa State. Despite not getting the full-time job, Smith is being retained by Campbell and was rewarded with a new, four-year deal to stay in Happy Valley.

The Nittany Lions’ win over Clemson marked their 34th bowl win in program history, which ranks for the fourth most in Division I FBS history.

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.

The Cougars used a fourth-quarter comeback to beat Georgia Tech 25-21 in the 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl and win the glorious honor of eating the life-sized mascots of the beloved bowl game.

Watch BYU vs Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl live with Fubo (free trial)

Bear Bachmeier authored another great performance to cap off a stellar freshman season at BYU. He threw for 325 yards and a touchdown, with 120 receiving yards from senior tight end Carsen Ryan.

BYU finishes the season 12-2 — its most wins since 2001 — and gets the one-of-a-kind Pop-Tarts toaster bowl trophy. Georgia Tech ends the campaign 9-4.

USA TODAY Sports had coverage from the game:

BYU vs Georgia Tech score

This section will be updated.

BYU vs Georgia Tech updates

BYU eats sprinkles Pop-Tarts

It’s the moment everyone was waiting for.

It was ‘Team Sprinkles’ that were chosen of getting to be eaten by BYU. Protein Slammin’ Strawberry, Frosted Cookies & Creme and Frosted Cherry all got on the toaster to be eaten. However, Protein Slammin’ Strawberry, the team captain, decided it wasn’t his time yet, jumping off before his ritual sacrifice.

Frosted Cookies & Creme and Frosted Cherry had no problems seeing their lives come to an end, and were toasted for the Cougars to enjoy.

Kalani Sitake devours Pop-Tart

The BYU coach said he and his team love all Pop-Tarts, and he proved it by quickly eating one that was just toasted in the trophy.

BYU celebrates win with Pop-Tart shower

Let the Pop-Tarts rain.

After pulling off the comeback win, BYU players threw a bucket of mini-Pop-Tarts on coach Kalani Sitake. He made sure to at least grab one for a snack.

BYU end zone interception seals win

Georgia Tech falls short.

An incredible fourth-down play got the Yellow Jackets all the way to the BYU 18-yard line, but they couldn’t score. On another fourth down with 14 seconds left, Haynes King’s pass gets intercepted in the end zone by Evan Johnson and the Cougars will hang on to win.

BYU retakes lead

The Cougars are back out in front late.

BYU forced another Georgia Tech punt, needing a field goal to at least tie. Instead, the Cougars would not be stopped on a nine-play, 70-yard drive that ended with a 4-yard rushing score from Jovesa Damuni.

BYU leads 25-21 at the 2-minute timeout.

BYU scores to cut deficit

BYU finally gets back in the end zone and it’s a one-score game.

After blocking a Georgia Tech field goal, the Cougars marched 80 yards down the field, capped off by Enoch Nawahine powering in for a 2-yard touchdown, his first score of the season. The BYU offense stayed on for the 2-point conversion, and Bear Bachmeier does it with his legs to make it a 21-18 game with 11 minutes to go.

End of 3Q: Georgia Tech 21, BYU 10

Georgia Tech’s lead is intact heading into the final quarter after neither side could score in the third quarter. The Yellow Jackets had a fumble and blocked field goal in BYU’s side of the field, and the Cougars threw a red zone interception.

BYU blocks field goal

Its offense hasn’t been able to score, but BYU’s defense is keeping the Cougars in it by preventing George Tech from extending the lead. The Yellow Jackets got back in BYU territory and were set to kick a 35-yard field goal, but Aidan Birr’s kick was blocked.

Georgia Tech stops BYU with interception

Another red zone stop for Georgia Tech, as it gets an interception to prevent BYU from making it a one-score game.

On third down from the Yellow Jacket 4-yard line, BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier tried to find Parker Kingston in the end zone, but Georgia Tech’s Rodney Shelley jumped in front of the pass to intercept it.

BYU can’t get points on the board, and it’s the second time in four red zone possessions it failed to score.

BYU gets big turnover

The Cougars get a turnover in one of the most unusual ways.

Georgia Tech was at the BYU 11-yard line, with Haynes King throwing to Jordan Allen. After Allen hauled in the catch, the ball was inadvertently kicked out of his hands by BYU’s Nusi Taumoepeau. The ball was on the ground and after a scramble, the Cougars got possession at their 31-yard line.

Pick which Pop-Tarts get sacrificed

Want to decide who gets eaten by the winners? Text ‘Swirls’ or ‘Sprinkles’ to 21523 to cast your vote.

Team Sprinkles:

Protein Slammin’ Strawberry (Team Captain)
Frosted Cookies & Creme
Frosted Cherry

Team Swirls:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (Team Captain)
Frosted Wild Berry
Frosted Hot Fudge Sundae

Halftime: Georgia Tech 21, BYU 10

A key three-play swing helped Georgia Tech get a two-score lead halfway into the Pop-Tarts Bowl. On the kickoff after a Georgia Tech touchdown, BYU fumbled it and set the Yellow Jackets up at the Cougar 6-yard line. They capitalized immediately with a touchdown on the next play to extend the lead.

BYU trails despite leading the game in most statistical categories, including 220 yards compared to Georgia Tech’s 198. The Cougars have also controlled the time of possession, they just haven’t been able to turn it into points.

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier has 187 yards and a touchdown, while Georgia Tech’s Haynes King has 123 yards and two touchdowns. BYU tight end Carsen Ryan and Georgia Tech receiver Malik Rutherford each have five catches for 81 yards.

Georgia Tech will start the second half with the ball.

Pop-Tart mascot lifts toaster weights

Protein Slammin’ Strawberry is getting the gains.

Pop-Tarts Bowl ring of honor unveiled

Time to honor those that Pop-Tarts that made the great sacrifice. The Pop-Tarts Bowl introduced the ring of honor for strawberry and cinnamon roll, the two flavors that were eaten in the first two editions of the game.

BYU fumble leads to Georgia Tech touchdown

In the blink of an eye, Georgia Tech gets another touchdown and now leads 21-10.

On the ensuing kickoff, BYU’s Cody Hagen muffed the kick and the Georgia Tech kicking unit was able to pounce on it at the BYU 6-yard line.

The Yellow Jackets needed just one play to capitalize with Haynes King dropping a dime to J.T. Byrne for his second touchdown pass in two plays.

Georgia Tech takes first lead with touchdown

Another 10-play drive results in another Georgia Tech touchdown and the Yellow Jackets lead 14-10.

Face mask and pass interference penalties helped Georgia Tech during the drive, and it was capped off by Haynes King finding Eric Rivers for a 5-yard touchdown pass to get the first lead of the game.

BYU reclaims lead with field goal

The Cougars again get inside the Georgia Tech 10-yard line, but they settle for a field goal.

On third down, BYU thought it would get a pass interference call, but no flag was thrown, much to the disapproval of the offense. Kalani Sitake opted to send the field goal unit out, and kicker Will Ferrin had no problems with a 22-yard field goal to make it a 10-7 game.

End of 1Q: BYU 7, Georgia Tech 7

It’s already been a fun first 15 minutes in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, with both teams getting in the end zone on their second drives of the game.

BYU’s offense has been on fire with 156 total yards, 132 coming off the arm of quarterback Bear Bachmeier.

Georgia Tech gets touchdown with trick play

The Yellow Jackets gambled on fourth-and-goal − and barely got in.

It looked like Georgia Tech would kick a field goal at the 3-yard line, but the special teams unit went with a run by Trelain Maddox. It looked like he got stuffed and the ball came loose and in BYU’s hands, but an official ruled it a touchdown as everyone seemed confused on the field.

Replay showed Maddox just cross the goal line before he lost possession of the ball, although BYU coach Kalani Sitake was not happy with the call.

Meet Pop-Tarts Bowl mascots

The stars of the show have been unveiled.

BYU scores first with touchdown

The Cougars won’t be denied again.

BYU couldn’t punch it in on their long opening drive, but after forcing a three-and-out for Georgia Tech, it goes right down the field and gets into the end zone. Bear Bachmeier found Chase Roberts for a 7-yard touchdown pass to cap off a five-play drive that went 62 yards down the field.

The Cougars lead 7-0.

BYU stopped at goal line

The Cougars opened the contest with the ball and got all the way down to the 1-yard line, but they were unable to score. BYU went for it on fourth down with a run from Enoch Nawahine, but he was stuffed by the Georgia Tech defensive line.

What channel is BYU vs Georgia Tech on today?

TV Channel: ABC
Livestream:Fubo (free trial)

BYU and Georgia Tech will broadcast nationally on ABC for the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Mark Jones and Roddy Jones will call the game from Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, with Quint Kessenich reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include Watch ESPN and Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.

BYU vs Georgia Tech time today

Date: Saturday, Dec. 27
Start time: 3:30 p.m. ET | 1:30 p.m. MT

The BYU vs Georgia Tech game starts at 3:30 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. MT) from Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

Stream BYU vs Georgia Tech with Fubo (free trial)

BYU vs Georgia Tech predictions, picks, odds

Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday Dec. 27

Spread: BYU (-3.5)
Over/under: 56.5
Moneyline: BYU (-165) | Georgia Tech (+140)

Here is how USA TODAY Sports’ expert writers are picking the Pop-Tarts Bowl between BYU and Georgia Tech:

Matt Hayes: BYU
Jordan Mendoza: BYU
Paul Myerburg: BYU
Erick Smith: BYU
Eddie Timanus: BYU
Blake Toppmeyer: BYU

Pop-Tarts Bowl field design

The Pop-Tarts Bowl field is going all out with a sprinkle-inspired design for the endzones in the colors of the respective teams. The BYU and Georgia Tech logo is also inside a Pop-Tart

BYU-Georgia Tech Pop-Tarts helmets

The field isn’t the only thing inspired by Pop-Tarts, with both teams sporting designs on their uniforms.

Georgia Tech and BYU will have rainbow sprinkle stripes on their helmets just like the food namesake. BYU also has the design on its helmet bumper, and Georgia Tech has it inside the logo.

Pop-Tart Bowl mascots

The Pop-Tarts Bowl is back and it’s bigger, better and tastier than ever.

A new twist to the Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot this year is the creation of two mascot teams: Team Sprinkles and Team Swirls. Each team will be comprised of three different Pop-Tarts flavors. This new addition marks the second consecutive season that Pop-Tarts Bowl organizers have upped their antics with the mascots. They had one mascot (Frosted Strawberry) in Year 1 of the bowl game.

Instead of one flavor being ‘sacrificed’ into the gigantic toaster for the consumption of the winning team, an entire mascot team will be sent through the toaster after the game.

Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot teams

Team Sprinkles:

Protein Slammin’ Strawberry (Team Captain)
Frosted Cookies & Creme
Frosted Cherry

Team Swirls:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (Team Captain)
Frosted Wild Berry
Frosted Hot Fudge Sundae

How is the Edible Pop-Tarts Bowl flavor chosen?

Another new twist to this year’s Pop-Tarts Bowl is that fans will have the power to determine which Pop-Tarts mascot team will be chosen to be sacrificed for the ultimate pastry dream trophy. In past years, the Most Valuable Player from the winning team got to select the flavor of the edible Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot.

In past years, the frosted cinnamon roll and frosted strawberry mascots were selected.

Why did Notre Dame decline Pop-Tarts Bowl?

After getting snubbed of the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame could have played in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, but decided not to.

Notre Dame declined a bowl game invitation as a result of not making the 12-team playoff. The Fighting Irish were controversially left out of the bracket as the selection committee selected Miami as the No. 10 seed over Notre Dame. Notre Dame was ranked over Miami in all of its previous top 25 ranking and had not used its head-to-head tiebreaker with both teams until Selection Sunday, despite the Hurricanes beating the Fighting Irish all the way back in Week 1.

‘As a team, we’ve decided to withdraw our name from consideration for a bowl game following the 2025 season. We appreciate all the support from our families and fans, and we’re hoping to bring the 12th national title to South Bend in 2026,’ Notre Dame wrote in a statement on Dec. 7.

Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua called it the ‘right decision’ by the Fighting Irish’s leadership team and coach Marcus Freeman to not play in a bowl game. He added players would also be able to rest during finals week and spend the holidays with their families by not playing another game.

Penn State football took down Clemson 22-10 on Saturday, Dec. 27 in the Pinstripe Bowl, ending its disappointing season on a high note after firing former coach James Franklin earlier in the season.

Penn State (7-6) scored both of its touchdowns in the fourth quarter, securing its fourth consecutive win under interim coach Terry Smith to end the season. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer threw for 262 yards with two touchdowns in the win, and held Clemson to 236 total yards.

Penn State and Clemson both started the year ranked in the top 10 of the US LBM Coaches Poll but struggled throughout the regular season to narrowly reach bowl eligibility. For the Nittany Lions, at least, they ended the season with a win.

Clemson and coach Dabo Swinney will need to do a bit of soul searching this offseason, especially as they lose 3-year starter Cade Klubnik at quarterback, among numerous others to the NFL draft.

Here are the highlights from Penn State’s win over Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl.

Penn State vs Clemson score

Penn State vs Clemson highlights

This section will be updated.

Penn State wins 22-10

Penn State beats Clemson 22-10, taking home the Pinstripe Bowl Trophy. The Nittany Lions end the season with four consecutive wins under interim coach Terry Smith and now shift their focus to the first offseason with new head coach Matt Campbell.

Penn State forces turnover on downs

Cade Klubnik is sacked for a 10-yard loss on fourth-and-11 by Vaboue Toure, giving Penn State back the ball with 2:29 left in the game. That’s going to do it for the Nittany Lions, barring a miracle.

Penn State scores again

Ethan Grunkemeyer throws his second touchdown of the game after finding Andrew Rappleyea for the 11-yard score. Penn State extends its lead to 22-10 with 4:56 remaining.

Grunkemeyer is 23-of-34 passing for 262 yards with two touchdowns now, and is making his case to be Penn State’s full-time starter next season under first-year head coach Matt Campbell.

Clemson responds

Clemson isn’t going away yet, as the Tigers travel 50 yards in seven plays ending in a 2-yard touchdown run by Adam Randall.

Penn State still leads 15-10 with 8:47 left in the fourth quarter. Both offenses are starting to wake up.

Penn State scores first touchdown

Ethan Grunkemeyer completes a short pass to Trebor Pena, who does the rest, running 73 yards to score the first touchdown of the game. Penn State extends its lead to 15-3 with 12:51 left in the fourth quarter, putting Clemson in a hole.

Penn State’s 2-point conversion attempt fails.

Penn State extends lead

Penn State makes another field goal, taking a 9-3 lead early in the fourth quarter on a 43-yard kick by Ryan Barker.

Clemson is running out of time for its offense to get going.

Clemson punts again

Clemson’s drive ends after gaining 28 yards in eight plays, taking 4:32 off the game clock. Both teams still have under 180 total yards of offense with 5:05 left in the third quarter.

Penn State opens second half with punt

Penn State is stopped on fourth down after Devonte Ross drops a pass from Ethan Grunkemeyer, ending its 12-play, 47-yard drive in Clemson territory. Penn State still leads 6-3 in the low-scoring game.

Penn State leads 6-3 at halftime

Ryan Barker drills a 48-yard field goal as time expires to give Penn State a 6-3 lead going into halftime. Nittany Lions quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer leads his unit to points before the second quarter ends.

Clemson ties it

Nolan Hauser makes his field goal attempt this time, converting from 48 yards to tie the game at 3-3 with 56 seconds left before halftime.

Clemson misses field goal

Clemson fails to tie the game at 3-3 after Nolan Hauser misses the 33-yard field goal attempt. Penn State still leads 3-0 with 6:08 remaining in the first half.

Clemson with explosive play

Cade Klubnik buys time in the pocket and fires a pass to T.J. Moore, who runs 44 yards to Penn State’s 15-yard line. It’s by far the most explosive play of the game by either team and puts Clemson in scoring position.

The pass was Klubnik’s 902nd completion of his career, breaking the school record previously held by Tajh Boyd.

Penn State punts

Both offenses continue to struggle. Penn State’s punt is the fifth combined between both teams so far.

Penn State leads 3-0 after first quarter

Both teams are struggling offensively so far, but Penn State leads 3-0 after taking advantage of its strong field position on its opening possession.

Penn State has 49 total yards compared to Clemson’s 39.

Clemson goes three-and-out

Nice start for Penn State defensively, as it holds Clemson to a three-and-out after forcing a turnover on downs on the first possession of the game.

The Nittany Lions take over on their own 31-yard line with 6:34 left in the first quarter.

Penn State takes 3-0 lead

Penn State gets stuffed on the goal line, opting for a 22-yard field goal to take an early 3-0 lead. The Nittany Lions’ drive started at Clemson’s 32-yard line after the Tigers’ fake punt on fourth-and-3 was stopped.

The fake punt wasn’t particularly close, either.

Clemson starts with possession

Clemson and quarterback Cade Klubnik start with possession. Klubnik is making his 40th and final collegiate start today.

Clemson opt outs for Pinstripe Bowl

Here’s the full list of Clemson opt outs for the Pinstripe Bowl against Penn State, courtesy of the Greenville News:

CB Avieon Terrell (NFL draft)
DT Peter Woods (NFL draft)
DT DeMonte Capehart (NFL draft)
DE T.J. Parker (NFL draft)
TE Ian Schieffelin (opt out)
WR Antonio Williams (injury)
WR Bryant Wesco Jr. (injury)
WR Cole Turner (injury)
TE Olsen Patt-Henry (injury)
RB Jay Haynes (injury)
RB Jarvis Green (injury)
RB Peyton Streko (injury)
OL Brayden Jacobs (injury)
OL Elyjah Thurmon (injury)
OL Walker Parks (injury)
OL Collin Sadler (injury)
OL Easton Ware (injury)
DL Jahiem Lawson (injury)
DL Armon Mason (injury)
DT Amare Adams (injury)
DT Makhi Williams-Lee (injury)
LB Wade Woodaz (injury)
LB Logan Anderson (injury)
S Khalil Barnes (transfer)
CB Shelton Lewis (transfer)
LB Jamal Anderson (transfer)
RB Keith Adams Jr. (transfer)
LB Dee Crayton (transfer)

Penn State availability report

Star running back Kaytron Allen is questionable for the game and is the lone Nittany Lion not listed as out on the availability report.

Penn State vs Clemson weather update

Penn State vs. Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl will be a chilly one, with the high temperature in the area at 33 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Wind chill will be between 20 and 25 degrees.

The snow on the field at Yankee Stadium was removed prior to the game, although there was recently snowfall in the area.

What channel is Penn State vs Clemson on today?

TV Channel: ABC
Livestream:Fubo (free trial)

Penn State and Clemson will broadcast nationally on ABC for the Pinstripe Bowl. Dave Pasch and Dusty Dvoracek will call the game from Yankee Stadium in the Bronx with Taylor McGregor reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include Watch ESPN and Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.

Penn State vs Clemson time today

Date: Saturday, Dec. 27
Start time: Noon ET

The Penn State vs Clemson game starts at noon ET from Yankee Stadium in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Stream Penn State vs Clemson with Fubo (free trial)

Penn State vs Clemson predictions, picks, odds

Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday, Dec. 26

Spread: Clemson (-2.5)
Over/under: 48.5
Moneyline: Clemson (-140) | Penn State (+115)

Prediction, Frank Bodani, York Daily Record: Penn State 30, Clemson 24
Prediction, Derrian Carter, Greenville News: Clemson 30, Penn State 27

Michigan eyes safe, solid landing spot in Kyle Whittingham. Not an elite hire, but not bad, either.
Utah had 18 winning seasons in 21 years under Whittingham.
Sherrone Moore brought shame to Michigan. Whittingham will restore respectability.

Michigan can’t close the Sherrone Moore chapter of its program history quickly enough.

The Wolverines have finalized a deal to hire Kyle Whittingham, the former longtime coach at Utah. Whittingham has gone 177-88 at Utah, including two Pac-12 titles and a 10-win season in the Big 12 this year, and the Utes contended for the College Football Playoff.

Here’s how we grade the hire:

Grade: B-

Michigan upgraded. It’s hiring a better coach than the one it fired.

The Wolverines booted a national disgrace in Moore. In finalizing a deal with Whittingham, it lands a career winner. He’s a portrait of stability for a university that needs scandals to subside.

Yes, indeed, Whittingham’s an upgrade on Moore.

He’s just not the home run that a couple of other apparent targets could have been.

Plundering Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer or Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham would’ve counted as a significant flex for Michigan. Whittingham counts as a secure, if unremarkable, landing after a tumultuous few weeks.

Moore’s shame became Whittingham’s gain. He leveled up. At age 66, he’s embracing one of the greatest challenges of his career. He’ll have the backing of Michigan’s impressive resources, as he encounters bigger expectations than he faced at Utah.

Earlier this month, Whittingham announced he was stepping down at Utah, but not retiring, after this season. He made way for coach-in-waiting successor Morgan Scalley.

So long as Whittingham’s fire still burns hot, never mind his age. He’s just two years older than Curt Cignetti, Indiana’s revelation.

It’s fair to have questions about the hire of a coach who’s never worked inside the Big Ten, or east of the Mountain Time Zone.

For one, will Whittingham successfully recruit the four- and five-star talent Michigan requires to chase the highest levels of success it craves?

Whittingham made his hay at Utah by mostly signing and developing three-star talent from west of the Mississippi River. That worked well enough for the Utes. That approach won’t allow him to tussle with Ohio State, Oregon or Indiana.

How lofty will Michigan’s ceiling be under a coach who usually lost Utah’s clashes against ranked opponents, while winning most of the rest of his games? Consider Whittingham’s final season at Utah a microcosm of his career. The Utes lost to Texas Tech and Brigham Young, the Big 12’s two best teams, and beat everyone else.

Last year, Utah endured a seven-game losing streak while playing a freshman quarterback and navigating a schedule that included multiple ranked opponents.

Whittingham earned his reputation as no-nonsense, line-of-scrimmage coach. His teams are built on physicality that should translate to the Big Ten. His brand of ball, plus his track record for player development, should maintain a stable floor of respectability. He posted a winning record in 18 of 21 seasons coaching Utah.

Whittingham never had a quarterback drafted during his Utah tenure. Makes you wonder about the future of Michigan’s quarterback position and incumbent starter Bryce Underwood, a former five-star recruit.

Can Whittingham assemble the amount of skill-position talent you see on the playoff rosters at Ohio State, Oregon or Indiana? Can he develop a Heisman Trophy winner like Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza or a first-round NFL prospect like Oregon’s Dante Moore? More relevant questions.

Whittingham is a solid transitional choice. Before the season, our crew at USA TODAY ranked Whittingham at No. 12 on our list of best college football coaches. Moore, by comparison, did not rank in our top 25.

Moore landed in jail, and Michigan fell forward.

Considering the timing and the circumstances, Michigan could have done worse than hiring someone with a .668 career winning percentage.

Don’t expect Cignetti to tremble at the sight of Whittingham in the Big Ten, but the Wolverines can be competent and respectable under his leadership, if not elite.

Blake Toppmeyer is the USA TODAY Network’s senior national college football columnist. Email him at BToppmeyer@gannett.com and follow him on X @btoppmeyer.

Hockey Canada issued an apology on Saturday after its players skipped the post-game handshakes following an emotionally charged 7-5 win over Czechia at the IIHF World Junior Championship.

It is customary for teams to shake hands following games at the World Juniors, but Canada skated off the ice on Friday in Minneapolis without doing so after a heated affair that included some pre-game antics, plenty of chirping between players and post-whistle scrums.

‘Following last night’s game, Canada’s National Junior Team skated off the ice before shaking hands with Czechia,’ Hockey Canada said in a statement. ‘Hockey Canada takes full responsibility for this oversight and we have apologized to the team, Czech Ice Hockey Association and IIHF for our mistake.’

Perennial favorites Canada, who suffered heart-breaking quarter-final losses to Czechia at the World Junior Championship in the last two years, needed to score four times in the third period to secure the victory in their opening game of the tournament.

Team Canada captain Porter Martone scored an empty-net goal with one minute remaining to give his team a two-goal lead but then was given a two-minute unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for skating past the Czechia bench and tapping forward Adam Novotny on the backside.

Players and Canada coach Dale Hunter have pleaded ignorance for failing to participate in the post-game tradition of shaking hands.

‘No one was trying to be disrespectful or anything like that,’ said Canada winger Tij Iginla. ‘We actually didn’t really know we were supposed to shake hands, but now we do and we’ll shake them after every game no matter the result.’

Hunter said: ‘You know something, though, I didn’t know. But I know now, so there’ll be a handshake (after tonight’s game against Latvia) and I’ll say sorry to the Czechs.’

The Baltimore Ravens have been one of the most up-and-down teams in the NFL during the 2025 season. To avoid disappointment, the Ravens are going to need an upswing fast to make it into the playoff field.

The Ravens are presently on the outside looking in of the AFC playoff picture. They have dropped three of their last four games following a five-game winning streak that catapulted them into a tight battle atop their division against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Baltimore’s recent downturn has pushed it to the brink of elimination. The team has no room for error over its final two games and will need help to have any shot of overtaking Pittsburgh in AFC North race.

Here’s a breakdown of the Ravens’ playoff chances and what their path into the 2025 NFL postseason looks like with just two weeks of regular-season action remaining.

Ravens playoff chances

The Raven have an estimated 9% chance to make the playoffs entering Week 17, according to the NFL’s Next Gen Stats. A loss to Green Bay would eliminate them from postseason contention, so they have to beat the Packers on Saturday to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Ravens playoff odds

The Ravens entered Week 17 with +800 odds make the postseason, per odds from DraftKings Sportsbook. That gives them an 11.11% implied probability to earn a playoff berth.

Ravens playoff scenarios

The Ravens have just one path to a potential postseason berth in 2025. They have to overtake the Steelers in the AFC North race and get into the AFC playoffs as the conference’s No. 4 seed.

Below is a look at what it will take for the Ravens to get into the playoffs:

Ravens win final two games AND
Steelers lose to Cleveland Browns in Week 17

The Ravens would have remained in control of their playoff chances had they beaten the New England Patriots in Week 16. Winning out would’ve given Baltimore a chance to overtake Pittsburgh in the 11th hour with a head-to-head victory over its rival in Week 18.

Instead, the Ravens will be relying on getting help from the Cleveland Browns to potentially make it into the postseason.

AFC North standings

The Ravens enter Week 17 in second place of the AFC North standings. They will remain there regardless of their result against the Packers, as they are two full games behind the Steelers in the divisional race.

This is what the AFC North standings currently look like:

Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6)
Baltimore Ravens (7-8)
Cincinnati Bengals (5-10)
Cleveland Browns (3-12)

The Ravens can climb into first place in the AFC North if they win out and the Steelers lose out. That would make it so the teams have split the season series while giving Baltimore a superior divisional record over its rival.

That said, the Steelers are currently in possession of a head-to-head tiebreaker over the Ravens and sport a better divisional record (3-1) than the Ravens (3-2). So, Pittsburgh holds a solid edge entering the final two weeks of the 2025 NFL season.

Ravens remaining schedule

Baltimore has the 10th-hardest end-of-season slate in the league, according to Tankathon rankings. The Ravens will play two nine-win teams to finish the season, with their Week 17 showdown with the Packers taking place on the road at Lambeau Field.

Here’s a look at how Baltimore finishes the regular season:

Week 17: at Green Bay Packers (9-5-1)
Week 18: at Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6)

Steelers remaining schedule

By comparison, the Steelers have the eighth-easiest remaining schedule in the NFL, per Tankathon. So long as they don’t lose to the 3-12 Browns in Week 17, they will win the AFC North for the first time since 2020.

Below is a look at the Steelers’ full schedule:

Week 17: at Cleveland Browns (3-12)
Week 18: vs. Baltimore Ravens (7-8)

NFL playoff picture

Here’s how the AFC and NFC stack up for Week 17:

AFC

Denver Broncos (13-3, AFC West leaders)*
New England Patriots (12-3, AFC East leaders)*
Jacksonville Jaguars (11-4, AFC South leaders)*
Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6, AFC North leaders)
Los Angeles Chargers (11-4, wild card No. 1)*
Buffalo Bills (11-4, wild card No. 2)*
Houston Texans (10-5, wild card No. 3)

In the hunt: Indianapolis Colts (8-7), Baltimore Ravens (7-8).

NFC

Seattle Seahawks (12-3, NFC West leaders)*
Chicago Bears (11-4, NFC North leaders)*
Philadelphia Eagles (10-5, NFC East winners)*
Carolina Panthers (8-7, NFC South leaders)
San Francisco 49ers (11-4, wild card No. 1)*
Los Angeles Rams (11-4, wild card No. 2)*
Green Bay Packers (9-5-1, wild card No. 3)*

In the hunt: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-8)

An asterisk (*) denotes teams that have clinched a playoff spot. Teams that have clinched division titles are noted accordingly.

Chaos and good football are in store with the 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl featuring No. 13 Brigham Young and No. 22 Georgia Tech.

The Cougars and Yellow Jackets fell just short of the ultimate goal of reaching the College Football Playoff, with BYU losing in the Big 12 title game and finishing just outside the at-large selection and Georgia Tech not making the ACC Championship game. Despite of that, both teams are playing in a bowl game, and their matchup makes for one of the most exciting contests.

Watch BYU vs Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl live with Fubo (free trial)

Then there’s the game itself. With its wild mascots, there may be no bowl game more fun than the Pop-Tarts Bowl. The winner not only will get a one-of-a-kind Pop-Tarts toaster bowl trophy, but also the illustrious honor of getting to eat a life-size, edible Pop-Tart mascot. Mixing great football with an entertaining spectacle should make for one of the most memorable bowl games.

USA TODAY Sports is bringing live updates from the game. Follow along:

BYU vs Georgia Tech score

This section will be updated.

BYU vs Georgia Tech live updates

BYU fumble leads to Georgia Tech touchdown

In the blink of an eye, Georgia Tech gets another touchdown and now leads 21-10.

On the ensuing kickoff, BYU’s Cody Hagen muffed the kick and the Georgia Tech kicking unit was able to pounce on it at the BYU 6-yard line.

The Yellow Jackets needed just one play to capitalize with Haynes King dropping a dime to J.T. Byrne for his second touchdown pass in two plays.

Georgia Tech takes first lead with touchdown

Another 10-play drive results in another Georgia Tech touchdown and the Yellow Jackets lead 14-10.

Face mask and pass interference penalties helped Georgia Tech during the drive, and it was capped off by Haynes King finding Eric Rivers for a 5-yard touchdown pass to get the first lead of the game.

BYU reclaims lead with field goal

The Cougars again get inside the Georgia Tech 10-yard line, but they settle for a field goal.

On third down, BYU thought it would get a pass interference call, but no flag was thrown, much to the disapproval of the offense. Kalani Sitake opted to send the field goal unit out, and kicker Will Ferrin had no problems with a 22-yard field goal to make it a 10-7 game.

End of 1Q: BYU 7, Georgia Tech 7

It’s already been a fun first 15 minutes in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, with both teams getting in the end zone on their second drives of the game.

BYU’s offense has been on fire with 156 total yards, 132 coming off the arm of quarterback Bear Bachmeier.

Georgia Tech gets touchdown with trick play

The Yellow Jackets gambled on fourth-and-goal − and barely got in.

It looked like Georgia Tech would kick a field goal at the 3-yard line, but the special teams unit went with a run by Trelain Maddox. It looked like he got stuffed and the ball came loose and in BYU’s hands, but an official ruled it a touchdown as everyone seemed confused on the field.

Replay showed Maddox just cross the goal line before he lost possession of the ball, although BYU coach Kalani Sitake was not happy with the call.

Meet Pop-Tarts Bowl mascots

The stars of the show have been unveiled.

BYU scores first with touchdown

The Cougars won’t be denied again.

BYU couldn’t punch it in on their long opening drive, but after forcing a three-and-out for Georgia Tech, it goes right down the field and gets into the end zone. Bear Bachmeier found Chase Roberts for a 7-yard touchdown pass to cap off a five-play drive that went 62 yards down the field.

The Cougars lead 7-0.

BYU stopped at goal line

The Cougars opened the contest with the ball and got all the way down to the 1-yard line, but they were unable to score. BYU went for it on fourth down with a run from Enoch Nawahine, but he was stuffed by the Georgia Tech defensive line.

What channel is BYU vs Georgia Tech on today?

TV Channel: ABC
Livestream:Fubo (free trial)

BYU and Georgia Tech will broadcast nationally on ABC for the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Mark Jones and Roddy Jones will call the game from Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, with Quint Kessenich reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include Watch ESPN and Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.

BYU vs Georgia Tech time today

Date: Saturday, Dec. 27
Start time: 3:30 p.m. ET | 1:30 p.m. MT

The BYU vs Georgia Tech game starts at 3:30 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. MT) from Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

Stream BYU vs Georgia Tech with Fubo (free trial)

BYU vs Georgia Tech predictions, picks, odds

Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday Dec. 27

Spread: BYU (-3.5)
Over/under: 56.5
Moneyline: BYU (-165) | Georgia Tech (+140)

Here is how USA TODAY Sports’ expert writers are picking the Pop-Tarts Bowl between BYU and Georgia Tech:

Matt Hayes: BYU
Jordan Mendoza: BYU
Paul Myerburg: BYU
Erick Smith: BYU
Eddie Timanus: BYU
Blake Toppmeyer: BYU

Pop-Tarts Bowl field design

The Pop-Tarts Bowl field is going all out with a sprinkle-inspired design for the endzones in the colors of the respective teams. The BYU and Georgia Tech logo is also inside a Pop-Tart

BYU-Georgia Tech Pop-Tarts helmets

The field isn’t the only thing inspired by Pop-Tarts, with both teams sporting designs on their uniforms.

Georgia Tech and BYU will have rainbow sprinkle stripes on their helmets just like the food namesake. BYU also has the design on its helmet bumper, and Georgia Tech has it inside the logo.

Pop-Tart Bowl mascots

The Pop-Tarts Bowl is back and it’s bigger, better and tastier than ever.

A new twist to the Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot this year is the creation of two mascot teams: Team Sprinkles and Team Swirls. Each team will be comprised of three different Pop-Tarts flavors. This new addition marks the second consecutive season that Pop-Tarts Bowl organizers have upped their antics with the mascots. They had one mascot (Frosted Strawberry) in Year 1 of the bowl game.

Instead of one flavor being ‘sacrificed’ into the gigantic toaster for the consumption of the winning team, an entire mascot team will be sent through the toaster after the game.

Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot teams

Team Sprinkles:

Protein Slammin’ Strawberry (Team Captain)
Frosted Cookies & Creme
Frosted Cherry

Team Swirls:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (Team Captain)
Frosted Wild Berry
Frosted Hot Fudge Sundae

How is the Edible Pop-Tarts Bowl flavor chosen?

Another new twist to this year’s Pop-Tarts Bowl is that fans will have the power to determine which Pop-Tarts mascot team will be chosen to be sacrificed for the ultimate pastry dream trophy. In past years, the Most Valuable Player from the winning team got to select the flavor of the edible Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot.

In past years, the frosted cinnamon roll and frosted strawberry mascots were selected.

Why did Notre Dame decline Pop-Tarts Bowl?

After getting snubbed of the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame could have played in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, but decided not to.

Notre Dame declined a bowl game invitation as a result of not making the 12-team playoff. The Fighting Irish were controversially left out of the bracket as the selection committee selected Miami as the No. 10 seed over Notre Dame. Notre Dame was ranked over Miami in all of its previous top 25 ranking and had not used its head-to-head tiebreaker with both teams until Selection Sunday, despite the Hurricanes beating the Fighting Irish all the way back in Week 1.

‘As a team, we’ve decided to withdraw our name from consideration for a bowl game following the 2025 season. We appreciate all the support from our families and fans, and we’re hoping to bring the 12th national title to South Bend in 2026,’ Notre Dame wrote in a statement on Dec. 7.

Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua called it the ‘right decision’ by the Fighting Irish’s leadership team and coach Marcus Freeman to not play in a bowl game. He added players would also be able to rest during finals week and spend the holidays with their families by not playing another game.