AAC Championship Showdown: North Texas Battles Tulane for College Football Playoff Berth

The American Athletic Conference championship is set. North Texas faces Tulane this Friday, December 5, at 8 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast live on ABC from Yulman Stadium in New Orleans. The winner secures the automatic Group of Five berth in the expanded College Football Playoff.

This marks a historic moment for North Texas. Tulane seeks to defend its title and return to the playoff. The stakes could not be higher for both programs.

Historic Run Meets Defending Champion

North Texas earned its first-ever AAC title game appearance. The Mean Green finished the regular season with an impressive 11-1 record. Their 7-1 conference mark was the best in program history.

Head coach Eric Morris has led a remarkable turnaround. The team’s explosive offense has been a key to their success. According to ESPN College Football, this consistency earned them national attention.

Tulane enters as the defending champion. The Green Wave posted a 9-2 overall record this season. They clinched their spot with a dominant shutout victory in their final regular season game.

Coach Jon Sumrall’s team is experienced in this high-pressure setting. Playing at home in New Orleans provides a significant advantage. Tulane aims to use that energy to secure back-to-back championships.

Everything on the Line for Playoff Dreams

The new 12-team playoff format changes everything. The AAC champion receives an automatic invitation. This guarantees a spot in the national tournament.

Tulane currently holds the No. 12 position in the CFP rankings. A win would solidify their seed. A loss would likely end their playoff hopes entirely.

North Texas is not currently ranked by the committee. A victory would be a monumental upset with massive implications. It would instantly make them a playoff team and reshape the Group of Five landscape.

The matchup features a powerful contrast in narratives. North Texas is the hungry newcomer. Tulane is the established power protecting its throne.

The AAC championship game is more than a conference title. It is a direct gateway to the national championship race. Friday’s winner will make history and continue their season into January. All eyes will be on New Orleans for this pivotal clash.

Thought you’d like to know

What time is the AAC championship game and what channel?

The game kicks off at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, December 5. It will be televised nationally on ABC.

Where is the 2025 AAC championship game being played?

The game is hosted at Yulman Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana. This is Tulane University’s home field.

What does the winner of the AAC championship get?

The winner receives the American Athletic Conference championship trophy. More importantly, they secure the automatic Group of Five bid to the 12-team College Football Playoff.

Has North Texas ever won the AAC before?

No, this is North Texas’s first appearance in the AAC championship game. A win would be their first conference title at this level.

Is Tulane ranked higher than North Texas?

Yes. Tulane is ranked No. 12 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings. North Texas is unranked by the committee but is No. 21 in the AP Top 25 poll.

Who is favored to win the AAC championship?

Tulane is considered the favorite, largely due to their higher ranking, playoff experience, and home-field advantage. North Texas is seen as a formidable underdog with a potent offense.