As the calendar turns toward late December, the Bronx is buzzing with anticipation. The 2025 Pinstripe Bowl, scheduled for December 27 at Yankee Stadium, is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing postseason matchups in college football. With the Big Ten and ACC tie-ins, fans are already speculating about which programs will take the field in one of the sport’s most unique venues. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

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Pinstripe Bowl 2025 Projections

Several outlets have released early projections, and the possibilities highlight the depth of competition this season:

• Minnesota Golden Gophers (7–5)
  • ESPN’s Kyle Bonagura projects Minnesota vs. Duke.
  • ESPN’s Mark Schlabach sees Minnesota vs. Pittsburgh.
  • Athlon Sports also lists Minnesota as a strong candidate for the Pinstripe Bowl.
• Clemson Tigers (7–5)
  • USA Today notes Clemson could land in the Pinstripe Bowl, with potential opponents including Army, South Florida, or Illinois.
• Illinois Fighting Illini (8–4)
  • Some experts project Illinois to face an ACC team, keeping the Big Ten vs. ACC tradition alive.

The Pinstripe Bowl has consistently delivered competitive matchups, and Minnesota’s steady bowl eligibility streak makes them a frequent projection. Clemson’s presence would add national intrigue, while Illinois offers a strong Big Ten contender with a passionate fan base.

Tradition Meets Gridiron

What makes the Pinstripe Bowl so special is its setting. Yankee Stadium, the cathedral of baseball, transforms into a football battleground each winter. The sight of college football teams competing under the bright lights of the Bronx creates a spectacle unlike any other. Fans from across the country flock to New York City, combining holiday festivities with the thrill of postseason football.

A Winter Attraction in New York City

Over the years, the Pinstripe Bowl has grown into one of New York City’s most popular winter attractions. Out-of-town fans relish the chance to see their teams play in the iconic home of the Yankees, while locals embrace the energy it brings to the city during the holiday season. With projections pointing to Minnesota, Clemson, Illinois, Duke, Pittsburgh, Army, or South Florida, the 2025 edition promises another unforgettable chapter in this unique bowl tradition.

The 2025 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium is shaping up with projections including Minnesota, Clemson, Illinois, Duke, and Pittsburgh. Discover why this winter showdown has become one of New York City’s most popular attractions.