The holidays are officially in full swing, meaning plenty of holiday parties, small talk, and sports stories to share. If you're looking for exciting conversation starters this week, look no further. Let’s dive into the week's hottest sports topics so that you can impress at your next holiday gathering.
College Football Playoffs: The New 12-Team Field
Let’s talk college football! The 12-team College Football Playoff bracket has been set, marking the first year with this expanded format. Four teams—Oregon, Georgia, Boise State and Arizona State—received a bye in the first round after winning their conference championships. On December 20 and 21, the playoffs begin with thrilling matchups: Notre Dame vs. Indiana, SMU vs. Penn State, Tennessee vs. Ohio State and Clemson vs. Texas.
One notable snub? Alabama, who was left out of the playoffs despite being on the bubble. Three bad losses were too much to overcome, and their reputation couldn’t save them this year.
Timothée Chalamet Surprises College GameDay
A surprising moment from College GameDay: actor Timothée Chalamet, who joined the show as a guest picker, wowed fans with his surprisingly solid knowledge of college football. Fans and sports commentators alike were impressed by his insightful picks—Chalamet, who knew his stuff, might be a future sports analyst!
NFL: My Cause, My Cleats & the New York Giants' Struggles
This past weekend marked the final day of the NFL’s (National Football League) My Cause, My Cleats initiative, where players design custom cleats to represent their chosen charities. Sideline reporter Erin Andrews joined the cause, creating shoes to honor a young fan at Boston Children's Hospital.
Not so lovely? The New York Giants season. A small plane flew over MetLife Stadium with a banner that read, “Mr. Mara, enough. Please fix this dumpster fire.” The Giants lost again, continuing a dismal season despite celebrating their 100th anniversary.
F1: Hamilton's Big Move & McLaren’s Victory
In Formula One, the season's final race was bittersweet. Lando Norris claimed victory, but the real buzz was about Lewis Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes after 12 successful years and seven world titles. Hamilton is set to join Ferrari next season, signaling the end of an era in F1. McLaren, however, took home the Constructors Cup, capping off a remarkable season.
College Basketball: Kansas City Jayhawks’ Tough Week
The Kansas City Jayhawks had a rough week in college basketball, losing to two unranked teams. Missouri fans celebrated their victory by storming the court, but let’s keep things in perspective—it's still early in the season, and the Jayhawks will have time to regroup.
LOOKING AHEAD
Monday Night Football (NFL) will have a Simpsons spin tonight, with the cartoon taking over the alternative broadcast.
Heisman Trophy finalists will be announced tonight, with dually talented player Travis Hunter from Colorado as the favorite.
That’s your weekend sports preview! From NFL to F1 to college basketball and football, it’s shaping up to be another exciting week in the world of sports. Keep up with us on social media @LastNightsGame, and for more, visit us at lastnightsgame.com.
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