Over the past few years, the college football news cycle has been unending. That remains true in 2024.
With the transfer portal opening up, there's movement taking place all over the country. And with Conference Championship Week in the rearview mirror, the same can be said for the coaching carousel.
The player and coach movement can be hard to keep track of at times.
Below, you will find a running log of the all-important news for each individual bowl game. I will continuously update this file as more news comes in regarding transfers, injuries and opt-outs for players with at least 50 snaps this season, so make sure you periodically check back if you want to double-check any game information before placing a bet.
Keep in mind players in the portal can still play in their bowl games. This file will include injuries, opt-outs, potential opt-outs, coaching changes and transfer portal updates.
Many of the potential opt-outs will play, but they're worth monitoring as they declare their NFL aspirations.
For convenience, the bowls are listed in chronological order below.
2024 College Football Roster News Tracker
Frisco Bowl: Memphis vs. West Virginia
West Virginia fired head coach Neal Brown. Offensive coordinator Chad Scott will serve as the interim head coach for the bowl game.
West Virginia Injuries (out for year)
- WR Traylon Ray (28-426-4)
- WR Jaden Bray (hasn’t played since Week 6)
- CB Ayden Garnes (original starter but hasn’t played since Week 7)
- S Aubrey Burks (original starter but hasn’t played since Week 7)
West Virginia Transfer Portal
- Top LB Josiah Trotter (committed to Missouri)
- CB TJ Crandall (122 snaps)
West Virginia Potential Opt-Outs
- T Wyatt Milum
- TE Kole Taylor
- C Brandon Yates
- DE TJ Jackson
- CB Garnett Hollis
- DT Fatorma Mulbah
- DE Sean Martin
Reports have surfaced West Virginia will likely have a few more opt outs.
Memphis Portal
- S Tahj Ra-El (hasn’t played since Week 5)
Memphis Potential Opt-Outs
- RB Mario Anderson
Boca Raton Bowl: Western Kentucky vs. James Madison
Western Kentucky starting LT Travon Taylor got hurt for Western Kentucky in the regular-season finale and didn’t play in the conference championship game. Top cornerback Anthony Johnson Jr. also missed the conference title game.
James Madison's top LB, Jacob Dobbs, missed the last four games — and he still leads the team in tackles. His status for the bowl TBD, but looks like he is likely to return.
JMU quarterback Alzona Barnett will miss the bowl game with an injury, leaving Billy Atkins to start.
Western Kentucky Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Caden Veltkamp (will play in bowl)
- Starting WR Easton Messer
- Starting C Evan Wibberley
- Starting RG Rodney Newsom
- Starting LB Darius Thomas
- Starting DE Deante McCray
- Starting NT Dallas Walker
- Starting DT Hosea Wheeler (committed to Indiana)
- Starting S Demarko Williams
- Starting K Lucas Carneiro
- DE Marcus Patterson ( 344 snaps)
- S Alex Ford (170 snaps)
- WR Moussa Barry (120 snaps)
- DL Jayden Loving (121 snaps)
- DL Jalil Rivera-Harvey (88 snaps)
- WR Demick Starling (88 snaps)
- RB LT Sanders (80 snaps)
- Backup QB TJ Finley (original starter but lost job; signed with Tulane)
- Third-string QB Turner Helton
- Tight end River Helms (out for the season with an injury)
- WR Koy Moore
Keep in mind that many Western Kentucky players (including quarterbacks) in the portal have played in their bowl games under head coach Tyson Helton. I assume Wheeler is out.
Helton confirmed that Veltkamp will play in the bowl game.
Western Kentucky Potential Opt-Outs
- DB Upton Stout
James Madison Transfer Portal
- Starting LT Jesse Ramil
- DL Darold DeNgohe (275 snaps)
- WR Max Moss (51 snaps)
LA Bowl: Cal vs. UNLV
UNLV head coach Barry Odom has taken the Purdue job, so WR coach Del Alexander will serve as the interim head coach for the bowl game. OC Brennan Marion will not call plays after being passed over for the head-coaching job in favor of Dan Mullen.
Cal starting quarterback Fernando Mendoza entered the transfer portal. It's also worth noting that his backup, Chandler Rogers, got hurt in the finale. If neither plays, I'd expect Ohio transfer CJ Harris to start with a run-heavy game plan.
Head coach Justin Wilcox stated Rogers has a chance, but Harris and freshman EJ Caminong are taking the majority of reps in bowl practices. He also stated the play-calling will be a collaborative effort after letting OC Mike Bloesch go.
To me, it sounds like Caminong has a real chance to start.
Cal starting LT Nick Morrow, who missed the regular-season finale, will not play in the bowl game. Starting RG Bastian Swinney should play.
Starting LG Sioape Vatikani is questionable. Starting MLB Cade Uluave also missed the final three games but was listed as day-to-day.
Cal was also without RB Jaivian Thomas (upper body) for its last game against SMU.
UNLV Transfer Portal
- Starting CB Tony Grimes (said he'll play in bowl)
- QB Matthew Sluka (original starter)
Cal Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Fernando Mendoza
- Starting WR Nzyiah Hunter (leading receiver)
- Interior OL Matthew Wykoff (314 snaps)
UNLV Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Ricky White
- LB Jackson Woodard (says he will play)
- DB Jalen Catalon
New Orleans Bowl: Georgia Southern vs. Sam Houston
Sam Houston head coach KC Keeler left for the Temple job, so OC Brad Cornelson will serve as the interim head coach for the bowl and likely still call plays from the box.
Starting LG MarKendrick Beall hasn’t played since Week 10.
Defensive coordinator Skyler Cassity was recently hired for the same position at North Texas and will bring a number of assistants with him, but it appears they will stay with the Bearkats through the bowl game.
Sam Houston Transfer Portal
- Starting RB Jay Ducker
- Starting WR Simeon Evans (said he’ll play)
- Starting S Isaiah Cash (said he’ll play)
- Starting S Caleb Weaver
- Starting DE Chris Murray
- Starting CB David Fisher
- Starting LB Trey Fields
- Starting DT Richard Outland (349 snaps)
- TE Fernando Garza (407 snaps)
- LB Briceon Hayes (275 snaps)
- DT Denver Warren (262 snaps)
- DT Quincy Wright (255 snaps)
- DE Kendrick DuJour (209 snaps)
- RB DJ McKinney (277 snaps)
- RB John Gentry (90 snaps)
- RB Zach Hrbacek (36 snaps)
- Backup QB Jase Bauer
There are reports out there that most of Sam Houston's portal entries will play. This reminds me a bit of James Madison last year after losing Curt Cignetti. A lot of players in the portal still played, as they were seemingly still excited as a program to be playing in a bowl.
All of the players above except DuJour and Bauer are on the bowl depth chart. Grant Gunnell will be the team's backup quarterback.
Georgia Southern Transfer Portal
- WR DeAndre Buchannon (63 snaps)
- Backup QB Dexter Williams
Meanwhile, there's not much news on the Georgia Southern side as of now. Starting DE Isaac Walker left the team in November.
Cure Bowl: Ohio vs. Jacksonville State
Jacksonville State head coach Rich Rodriguez will take the head coaching job at West Virginia — a big development for the Gamecocks. I will be monitoring the potential exodus that ensues. OC Rod Smith will serve as the interim for the bowl.
Tim Albin left Ohio for the head coaching job at Charlotte. OC Brian Smith will serve as the interim for the bowl. We will see if any players follow Albin down south, but there hasn't been any movement yet.
Ohio Transfer Portal
- N/A
Ohio is still the only team without any players in the portal as of now.
Jacksonville State Transfer Portal
- Starting WR Cam Vaughn
- Starting S Zechariah Poyser (led defense in snaps)
- Starting OLB Reginald Hughes (best edge player)
- Starting S Fred Perry (first-team All CUSA)
- Starting CB Jabari Mack
- Starting CB Fred Davis
- CB Derek Carter (207 snaps)
- OL K.D. Arnold (215 snaps)
- S Tee Denson (123 snaps)
- WR Tar’varish Dawson (61 snaps)
Last year, players in the portal didn't play in the bowl game for the Gamecocks. However, a report has surfaced that some of the players in the portal could play this season.
Gasparilla Bowl: Tulane vs. Florida
Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall recently signed a contract extension, so he appears to be staying in New Orleans. However, OC Joe Craddock could still potentially be on the move.
Tulane Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Darian Mensah (committed to Duke)
- Starting DE Matthew Fobbs-White (committed to Baylor)
- DL Parker Petersen (276 snaps; committed to Wisconsin)
- Backup QB Ty Thompson
- Backup QB Kai Horton
Despite entering the portal, former Oregon transfer Ty Thompson has stated he will still start at quarterback for the bowl game after Mensah committed to Duke. He was used in various packages this season.
Tulane Potential Opt-Out
- DB Calen Ransaw
Florida Injuries
- Top CB Jason Marshall (out for year)
- CB2 Devin Moore (hasn’t played since Week 10)
- CB3 Ja'Keem Jackson (hasn’t played since Week 2)
- Nickel Aaron Gates (missed regular-season finale)
- LB Pup Howard (hasn’t played since Week 11)
- S Asa Turner (hasn’t played since Week 1)
Graham Mertz and WR Tre Wilson are also out for the year.
Florida Transfer Portal
- TE Arlis Boardingham (294 snaps)
- DL Jack Pyburn (334 snaps, committed to LSU)
- DE Justus Boone (138 snaps)
- DL Kelby Collins (59 snaps)
Starting RG Damieon George entered the portal but then withdrew.
Florida Potential Opt-Outs
- RT Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson
- RB Montrell Johnson
- WR Elijhah Badger (says he'll play)
- DT Cam Jackson (says he'll play)
College Football Playoff: Indiana vs. Notre Dame
Notre Dame star RB Jeremiyah Love and stud DT Howard Cross are expected to play, while LB Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa (262 snaps) will be out.
Indiana starting CB Jamier Johnson missed the regular-season finale. He was the first defensive starter to miss a game with an injury this season.
IU starting LG Drew Evans is also out for the season after missing the final three games.
College Football Playoff: SMU vs. Penn State
Penn State Transfer Portal
- Backup QB Beau Pribula (won't be with team)
True freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer will be the team's backup quarterback.
SMU Transfer Portal
- Backup QB Preston Stone (staying with team through playoffs)
SMU stud TE RJ Maryland is out for the year, as is Penn State starting RT Anthony Donkoh.
College Football Playoff: Clemson vs. Texas
Texas stud starting LT Kelvin Banks Jr. didn’t play in the SEC Championship, so keep an eye on his status.
Clemson Transfer Portal
- CB Sherrod Covil (124 snaps)
- WR Troy Stellato (314 snaps; currently injured)
- WR Noble Johnson (49 snaps)
Texas Transfer Portal
- WR Johntay Cook (114 snaps)
College Football Playoff: Tennessee vs. Ohio State
Ohio State Transfer Portal
- Backup QB Devin Brown (staying with team through playoffs)
- WR Kojo Antwi (30 snaps)
- LB Gabe Powers (29 snaps)
Tennessee Transfer Portal
- LB Jalen Smith (256 snaps)
- WR Kaleb Webb (99 snaps)
- CB Jordan Matthews (83 snaps)
- OL Vysen Lang (44 snaps)
- RB Khalifa Keith (34 snaps)
Players in the portal are not currently practicing with Tennessee.
Ohio State starting LT Josh Simmons is out for the year and declared for the NFL Draft after last playing in Week 7, as is starting C Seth McLaughlin, who last played in Week 12.
Tennessee also has some WR injuries. Bru McCoy missed the finale with a hamstring injury, while Dont’e Thornton also got a bit beat up. However, I’d expect both to play.
Myrtle Beach Bowl: Coastal Carolina vs. UTSA
Coastal Carolina Transfer Portal
Both QBs that Coastal used this year — Noah Kim and Ethan Vasko — are in the portal. There are only freshmen on the roster behind those two.
Head coach Tim Beck said redshirt freshman Tad Hudson (0 career snaps) will probably be the starter and "we have Alex Walker as well." He then joked he's taking the reporters out for tryouts.
- Starting TE Kendall Karr (looks like he'll be headed to Houston)
- Top CB Matthew McDoom (signed with Cincinnati)
- Starting OLB Clev Lubin (signed with Auburn)
- CB Cristian Conyer (362 snaps)
- RB Christian Washington (298 snaps)
- RB Simeon Price (131 snaps)
- DL Naejuan Barber (293 snaps)
- DL Cohen Fuller (172 snaps)
- CB Jaitlin Hampton (123 snaps)
- DL Will Whitson (182 snaps; last played Week 7)
Coastal Carolina Injuries
Starting RT Zovon Lindsay missed the regular-season finale, and starting LG Anthony Walton also got injured in that game.
WR Cameron Wright and both starting LBs Shane Bruce and Wyatt Gedeon missed the final two games with injuries.
Starting S AJ Williams also missed the finale.
UTSA Transfer Portal
- Starting DE Ronald Triplette
- RB Kevorian Barnes (233 snaps)
- WR Jace Wilson (197 snaps)
- Backup QB Eddie Lee Marburger
Potential UTSA Opt-Outs
- DL Joseph Evans
UTSA Injuries
Starting CB Denver Harris didn’t play in the finale, and neither did RBs Kevorian Barnes and Robert Henry. Third-string back Brandon High took all of the carries against Army.
Starting TE Oscar Cardenas is out for the year (last played in Week 9).
UTSA’s best defensive player and AAC Defensive Player of the Year Jimmori Robinson did get a little banged up at the end of the Army game. Keep an eye on his status.
Head coach Jeff Traylor says he expects most of roster to be available for bowl game with players in the portal even traveling with the team.
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State
Fresno State hired Matt Entz as its new head coach, but current interim Tim Skipper will coach the bowl.
Fresno State Portal
- Starting QB Mikey Keene
- Starting WR Jalen Moss
- Starting WR Raylen Sharpe (signed with Arkansas)
- Starting CB Alzillion Hamilton
- Starting DT Gavriel Lightfoot
- Starting DT Jacob Holmes
- Starting LB Phoenix Jackson (committed to Auburn)
- RB Malik Sherrod (hasn’t played since Week 5)
- WR Tim Grear (90 snaps)
Fresno Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Mac Dalena (declared for NFL draft)
- CB Cam Lockridge (declared for NFL draft)
Starting LG Osmar Velez didn’t play in the finale, while starting CB Cam Lockridge didn’t play in the final three games. Without Keene, you may see both Joshua Wood and Jayden Mandal under center.
Northern Illinois Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Ethan Hampton (signed with Wake Forest)
- Starting S Santana Banner (signed with Missouri)
- Starting WR Trayvon Rudolph
- Starting DT Skyler Gill-Howard (signed with Texas Tech)
- Starting DE Jalonnie Williams
- DE Raishein Thomas (112 snaps)
- DE Neveah Sanders (96 snaps; signed with Mississippi State)
- CB Amariyun Knighten (started first eight games; going to Indiana)
- OLB Nevaeh Sanders (96 snaps)
- WR Keyshaun Pipkin (70 snaps)
Josh Holst will likely get the nod under center, as he did earlier this season when Hampton got injured. Jalen Macon is another option. I'd assume Rudolph and Williams are both out.
Northern Illinois Potential Opt-Outs
- DT Devonte O’Malley (accepted invite to Hula Bowl)
- LG J.J. Lippe (accepted invite to Hula Bowl)
RB Antario Brown missed the final three games, while DE Raishein Thomas missed the finale.
Hawaii Bowl: South Florida vs. San Jose State
San Jose State Transfer Portal
- Starting CB DJ Harvey (signed with USC)
- Starting CB Michael Dansby
- Backup QB Emmett Brown
San Jose State Opt-Outs
- WR Nick Nash
Starting C Hudson Mesa also missed the finale.
USF Portal
- Starting S Tawfiq Byard
- Starting DT Doug Blue-Eli (signed with Rutgers)
- Starting LG Andrew Kilfoyl
- CB Aamaris Brown-Bunkley (75 snaps)
Original starting QB Byrum Brown hasn’t played since Week 5 with a lower-body injury.
GameAbove Sports Bowl: Pitt vs. Toledo
Toledo Transfer Portal
- WR Larry Stephens (72 snaps)
Toledo Potential Opt-Outs
- TE Anthony Torres
- WR Jerjuan Newton
- S Maxen Hook
- DT Darius Alexander
Starting LT Allen Jones missed the finale, while starting S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren hasn’t played since Week 9
Pitt Transfer Portal
- DT Nahki Johnson (325 snaps)
- DT Elliot Donald (81 snaps)
- WR Daejohn Reynolds (285 snaps)
- C Terrence Moore (119 snaps)
- CB Noah Biglow (55 snaps)
- DE David Ojiegbe (50 snaps)
- Backup QB Nate Yarnell
Pitt Opt-Outs
- WR Konata Mumpfield
Pitt Potential Opt-Outs
- TE Gavin Bartholomew
Starting QB Eli Holstein and starting RB Desmond Reid missed the finale due to injuries. Starting LT Branson Taylor hasn’t played since Week 7. Narduzzi said they should be healthier for the bowl game than they were in the regular-season finale.
He confirmed Reid would be ready to go but wasn't positive on Holstein, although he sounded a bit optimistic. With Yarnell in the portal, the Panthers would likely turn to redshirt freshman David Lynch if Holstein isn't healthy enough.
Rate Bowl: Rutgers vs. Kansas State
Rutgers Transfer Portal
- DE Wesley Bailey (150 snaps)
- WR Chris Long (338 snaps; hasn't played since Week 8)
Rutgers Potential Opt-Outs
- CB Robert Longerbeam (looks like he might play based on Instagram story)
- S Shaq Loyal (same as Longerbeam)
- RB Kyle Monangai
- LT Hollin Pierce
Starting CB Eric Rogers, starting DE Arron Lewis, and starting S Desmond Igbinosun didn’t play in the finale. Rutgers won't have a DC for the bowl game.
Kansas State Transfer Portal
- Starting RT Carver Willis (committed to Washington)
- Starting WR Keagan Johnson
- DB Nickendre Stiger (103 snaps)
- CB Jordan Dunbar (66 snaps)
Kansas State Potential Opt-Outs
- RB DJ Giddens
- CB Jacob Parrish
68 Ventures Bowl: Arkansas State vs. Bowling Green
Bowling Green Transfer Portal
- Starting RT Alex Wollschlaeger (committed to Kentucky)
- Starting LB Joseph Sipp
- RB Terion Stewart (244 snaps)
- DL Davonte Miles (193 snaps)
- CB Edward Rhambo (207 snaps)
- LT Billie Roberts (172 snaps; hasn't played since Week 6)
- WR Jaylon Tillman (112 snaps)
Bowling Green Potential Opt-Out
- CB Jordan Oladokun
Star TE Harold Fannin Jr. said he’ll play in the 68 Ventures Bowl. Reports have also surfaced that all Bowling Green starters are expected to play.
Starting S Darius Lorfils dealt with an injury late in the season.
Arkansas State Transfer Portal
- Starting CB Dontay Joyner
- DE Jayden Jones (318 snaps)
- TE Miller McCrumby (198 snaps)
- Backup QB Timmy McClain
DL Nate Martey didn’t play in the finale. DE Jayden Jones hasn’t played since Week 9.
Armed Forces Bowl: Oklahoma vs. Navy
Oklahoma hired Ben Arbuckle as OC, but he won’t be part of bowl preparations. Joe Jon Finley will continue to call plays and the rest of the offensive staff will be retained.
Oklahoma Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Jackson Arnold (signed with Auburn)
- Starting WR Brenen Thompson (signed with Miss State)
- Starting WR JJ Hester
- Starting WR Jalil Farooq
- Starting TE Bauer Sharp (signed with LSU)
- CB Kani Walker (424 snaps; signed with Arkansas)
- C Josh Bates (164 snaps)
- LB Dasan McCullough (160 snaps)
- WR Jaquaize Pettaway (91 snaps)
- C Geirean Hatchett (51 snaps; committed to Washington)
- WR Nic Anderson (injured)
- WR Andrel Anthony (injured)
Oklahoma Potential Opt-Outs
- DE Ethan Downs
- DE Mason Thomas
- LB Danny Stutsman
- S Billy Bowman
- S Robert Spears-Jennings
Oklahoma has been ravaged by injuries at WR all season; Deion Burks is the name to keep an eye on for the bowl game. Michael Hawkins would start in place of Arnold at quarterback.
Navy Injuries
After suffering injuries earlier in the latter portion of the season, Navy quarterback Blake Horvath started against Army.
Birmingham Bowl: Georgia Tech vs. Vanderbilt
Georgia Tech Transfer Portal
- Starting WR Eric Singleton (potentially headed to Auburn)
- Starting LT Corey Robinson
- Starting S Taye Seymore (headed to Auburn)
- WR Leo Blackburn (67 snaps)
- OLB BJ Diakite (65 snaps)
- Third-string QB Zach Pyron (headed to Minnesota)
Georgia Tech Potential Opt-Outs
- TE Jackson Hawes
- RT Jordan Williams
- DT Zeek Biggers
CB Rodney Shelley and CB Zachary Tobe got hurt during the Georgia game, while CB Warren Burrell returned for the finale after getting banged up. S Taye Seymore also didn’t play in the final few games due to an injury.
Haynes King confirmed he will play in the bowl.
Vanderbilt Transfer Portal
- Starting OT Gunnar Hansen
- Backup QB Nate Johnson
Vanderbilt Potential Opt-Outs
- TE Eli Stowers
- S De’Rickey Wright
Liberty Bowl: Texas Tech vs. Arkansas
Texas Tech offensive coordinator Zach Kittley left to take the head-coaching job at FAU. Texas Tech also let go of defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter.
Texas Tech Transfer Portal
- LT Dalton Merryman (488 snaps)
- WR Jordan Brown (153 snaps)
- CB Jalon Peoples (135 snaps)
- WR Micah Hudson (87 snaps; signed with Texas A&M)
Texas Tech Injuries
Starting QB Behren Morton will miss the bowl after having surgery. Freshman Will Hammond, who did see some action this season, will start in his place.
Starting OLB Harvey Dyson hasn’t played since Week 9, while starting DTs De’Braylon Carroll and Quincy Ledet Jr. missed the finale. LB Bryce Ramirez (110 snaps) hasn’t played since Week 8. S Devynn Cromwell also didn’t play in the final few games.
Texas Tech Potential Opt-Outs
- RB Tahj Brooks
Arkansas Transfer Portal
- Starting C Addison Nichols
- Starting LG Andrew Kutas (signed with Ole Miss)
- Starting RG Joshua Braun (signed with UK)
- Starting WR Isaiah Sategna
- Starting TE Luke Hasz (signed with Ole Miss)
- Starting S TJ Metcalf
- LB Brad Spence (366 snaps; signed with Texas)
- DE Nico Davillier (362 snaps)
- RB Braylen Russell (137 snaps)
- TE Ty Washington (116 snaps)
- C Amaury Wiggins (94 snaps)
- CB Jaylon Braxton (77 snaps; signed with Ole Miss)
- TE Var’Keyes Gumms (57 snaps)
Arkansas Opt-Outs
- Stud WR Andrew Armstrong
Arkansas Potential Opt-Outs
- DT Eric Gregory
- RB Ja’Quinden Jackson
- DE Landon Jackson
Arkansas is down to just six healthy scholarship offensive linemen on the roster.
Holiday Bowl: Syracuse vs. Washington State
Washington State lost OC Ben Arbuckle to Oklahoma. Also, keep an eye on the offense, as starting C Devin Kylany missed the final two games of the season.
Washington State Transfer Portal
- Starting QB John Mateer
- Starting RB Wayshawn Parker
- Starting WR Kris Hutson
- Starting RT Fa'alili Fa'amoe
- Starting CB Ethan O’Connor
- Starting S Adrian Wilson
- Starting DT Ansel Din-Mbuh
- S Jackson Lataimua (400 snaps)
- DL Khalil Laufau (371 snaps)
- WR Tre Shackelford (179 snaps)
- CB Warren Smith (67 snaps)
Syracuse Transfer Portal
- LB Anwar Sparrow (126 snaps)
- CB Marcellus Barnes (133 snaps)
- S Jaeden Gould (92 snaps)
Fran Brown said he expects everybody on Syracuse to play, including QB Kyle McCord. His exact quote was, “We don’t opt out around here.”
Starting center J’Onre Reed missed the finale with an ankle injury, as did WR Umari Hatcher (359 snaps).
Las Vegas Bowl: Texas A&M vs. USC
Texas A&M Transfer Portal
- Starting WR Cyrus Allen
- iOL TJ Shanahan (285 snaps)
- OG Kam Dewberry (261 snaps)
- DE Malick Sylla (60 snaps)
- Backup QB Conner Weigman (original starter; signed with Houston))
Texas A&M Opt-Outs
- DE Nic Scourton
- DE Shemar Stewart
Texas A&M Potential Opt-Outs
- DT Shemar Turner
- RB Le'Veon Moss
USC Transfer Portal
- Starting RT Mason Murphy
- Starting WR Kyron Hudson (signed with Penn State)
- Starting WR Duce Robinson
- Backup RB Quinten Joyner (210 snaps)
- TE Kade Eldridge (234 snaps)
- OLB Sam Greene (205 snaps; signed with UK)
- OG Amos Talalele (60 snaps)
- QB Miller Moss (original starting QB; signed with Louisville)
- DL Bear Alexander (opted out earlier this season)
- WR Zachariah Branch
- S Zion Branch
USC Opt-Outs
- CB Jaylin Smith
- RB Woody Marks
USC Potential Opt-Outs
- LG Emmanuel Pregnon
- S Kamari Ramsey
- WR Zachariah Branch
Starting RB Woody Marks also got hurt in the finale but is off to the NFL. With Joyner in the portal and likely headed to Ohio State, Bryan Jackson will lead the backfield.
Fenway Bowl: UConn vs. North Carolina
UNC fired head coach Mack Brown, who will not be with the team for the Fenway Bowl. TE coach Freddie Kitchens will serve as the interim head coach.
UNC Transfer Portal
- Starting LB Amare Campbell
- Starting WR Kobe Paysour
- Starting LT Harold Sampson
- Starting LG Aidan Banfield (withdrawn)
- DT Travis Shaw (301 snaps)
- Backup QB Conner Harrell
UNC Potential Opt-Outs
- RB Omarion Hampton (declared for NFL draft, but didn't state anything about bowl game)
- DE Kaimon Rucker (same as Hampton)
- RG Willie Lampkin
TE Bryson Nesbit is also out for the year.
UConn Transfer Portal
- Starting CB Malcolm Bell
- RB Durrell Robinson (295 snaps; signed with Auburn)
- DE Pryce Yates (304 snaps)
Potential UConn Opt-Outs
- RT Chase Lundt
- LT Valentin Senn
CB Jordan Wright got banged up in the finale, and starting DT Dal’mont Gourdine didn’t play. UConn has also dealt with some injuries at guard throughout the season.
Pinstripe Bowl: Boston College vs. Nebraska
Dana Holgorsen took over as Nebraska’s OC late in the year and recently signed a longer-term deal. DC Tony White left for the same job at FSU, so DB coach John Butler will coach the defense in the bowl.
Boston College Transfer Portal
- WR Jerand Bradley (170 snaps)
- CB Ryan Turner (168 snaps)
- QB Thomas Castellanos (lost job late in season; signed with FSU)
Boston College Opt-Outs
- RT Ozzy Trapilo
- DE Donovan Ezeiruaku (I'd guess he sits)
Boston College Injuries
CB Amari Jackson is out for the year (last played Week 6), as is LB Owen McGowan (last played Week 11). LB Kam Arnold hasn’t played since Week 8.
BC also dealt with other injuries at CB and WR late in the season.
Nebraska Transfer Portal
- Starting LB Mikai Gbayor
- Starting DE Jimari Butler (signed with LSU)
- Starting TE Nate Boerkircher (363 snaps)
- RB Dante Dowdell (273 snaps)
- LB Stefon Thompson (175 snaps; signed with FSU)
- OLB Princewill Umanmielen (203 snaps; signed with Ole Miss)
- OLB James Williams (188 snaps)
- DE Kai Wallin (89 snaps)
- S Koby Bretz (51 snaps)
There have been rumors about QB Dylan Raiola but nothing confirmed — and he did post on his Instagram that he’s all in with Nebraska on Monday night.
New Mexico Bowl: Louisiana vs. TCU
Louisiana's original starting QB, Ben Wooldridge, was already out with an injury before new starter Chandler Fields got hurt in the conference title game and was carted off. If Wooldridge isn’t back, true freshman Daniel Beale would likely get the start.
For what it's worth, Wooldridge's original timeline would put him close to being available for this game.
WR Robert Williams (379 snaps) was also carted off in the conference championship game.
Starting S Tyree Skipper — the team's best defender — missed the last four games with an injury.
Louisiana Transfer Portal
- Starting WR Harvey Broussard (signed with Houston)
- Starting TE Terrence Carter
TE Ty Stamey (138 snaps) - RB Dre'lyn Washington (207 snaps)
TCU Transfer Portal
- Starting S Jamel Johnson
- WR JoJo Earle (76 snaps)
TCU Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Jack Bech
- WR Savion Williams
TCU head coach Sonny Dykes said he doesn’t expect any opt-outs, but Bech and Williams — who will both enter the NFL Draft — are also dealing with injuries.
Bech suffered an MCL injury in the finale and was expected to miss 4-6 weeks, but Dykes said there’s a chance he plays.
Pop-Tarts Bowl: Iowa State vs. Miami
Iowa State Transfer Portal
- DE Kenard Snyder (123 snaps)
- DE Trent Jones (101 snaps)
Iowa State Potential Opt-Outs
- CB Darien Porter
- CB Myles Purchase
- C Jarrod Hufford
- WR Jayden Higgins
- WR Jaylin Noel
Noel said he expects to play and expects all of the seniors to play as well. Purchase echoed those sentiments.
TE Benjamin Brahmer returned from injury for the Big 12 Championship game. S Malik Verdon missed most of the conference championship with an injury. LB Caleb Bacon could also return for the bowl.
Miami Transfer Portal
- RB Ajay Allen (51 snaps)
Miami Potential Opt-Outs
- QB Cam Ward
- TE Elijah Arroyo
- OT Jalen Rivers
- WR Xavier Restrepo (says he's not sure)
Cam Ward stated he will play, but that obviously could change for the potential top-five NFL Draft pick.
CB Jadais Richard hasn’t played since Week 10, and CB Dyoni Hill hasn't since Week 11. DE Elijah Alston did return for the finale.
Arizona Bowl: Miami (OH) vs. Colorado State
Miami (OH) Transfer Portal
- Starting LT Will Jados (signed with Texas Tech)
- Starting WR Reggie Virgil (signed with Texas Tech)
- Starting WR Javon Tracy (signed with Minnesota)
- Top CB Raion Strader (committed to Auburn)
- CB William Hardrick (258 snaps; started at end of year)
Miami (OH) Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Cade McDonald
- RT Reid Holskey
RB Dylan Downing (194 snaps) didn’t play in the MAC Championship game. CB Mychal Yharbrough is out for the year (last played week 8).
Colorado State Transfer Portal
- Starting LB Buom Jock
- Starting DE Mukendi Wa-Kalonji
- Starting DE Nuer Gatkuoth
- Starting WR Caleb Goodie (signed with Cincinnati)
Colorado State Potential Opt-Outs
- RG Drew Moss
Colorado State Injuries
Stud WR Tory Horton is out for the year. Starting DT Cam Bariteau missed finale, as did starting WR Caleb Goodie. Starting RB Avery Morrow played in the finale but had a knee brace. Fellow RB Justin Marshall also dealt with a late injury.
Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. NC State
NC State lost longtime DC Tony Gibson to Marshall as its new head coach. Nickels coach Freddie Aughtry-Lindsay will call plays in the bowl.
ECU interim head coach Blake Harrell, who took over midseason, has recently been named full-time head coach.
East Carolina Transfer Portal
- Starting WR Chase Sowell (signed with Iowa State)
- Starting CB Isaiah Brown-Murray
- Starting LB Zakye Barker
- DL CJ Mims (339 snaps; signed with Wake Forest)
East Carolina Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Winston Wright
East Carolina Injuries
Chase Sowell missed the finale with an injury. Stud CB Shavon Revel is out for the year after playing three games this season.
NC State Transfer Portal
- Starting WR KC Concepcion
- DE Red Hibbler (84 snaps; signed with Miss State)
- LB Jayland Parker (68 snaps)
- WR Jakolbe Baldwin (52 snaps)
NC State Potential Opt-Outs
- DE Davin Vann
- LT Anthony Belton
- RG Tim McKay
NC State Injuries
Starting CB Aydan White didn’t play in the finale, and fellow starting CB Brandon Cisse left with an injury. LB Caden Fordham is out for the year after last playing in Week 6. CB Corey Coley Jr. hasn’t played since Week 6.
Alamo Bowl: BYU vs. Colorado
Colorado Transfer Portal
- DE Dayon Hayes (163 snaps)
- LB Nikhai Hill-Green
Colorado Potential Opt-Outs
- QB Shedeur Sanders
- WR Jimmy Horn
- WR LaJohntay Webster
- WR Will Sheppard
- WR/DB Travis Hunter
- DT Chidozie Nwankwo
However, head coach Deion Sanders has stated he expects everybody on Colorado to play, but that could change.
Colorado Injuries
Starting CB Preston Hodge missed the final three games with an injury. Starting DL Amari McNeil missed the finale, but Shane Cokes returned.
Starting RT Phillip Houston missed the finale. RB Isaiah Augustave missed the finale, and WR Jimmy Horn missed the final few games.
BYU Transfer Portal
- Starting DT John Nelson
- Starting S Crew Wakley
- S Micah Harper (104 snaps)
- WR Kody Epps (135 snaps; hurt at end of year)
- RB Miles Davis (66 snaps)
BYU Injuries
Starting LB Harrison Taggart missed the finale, while starting RT Brady Keim missed the last three games. His backup, Isaiah Jatta, was also out in the finale, so they moved their LG to RT.
Starting RG Austin Leausa was also out. Connor Pay did recently come back at center. RB Hinckley Ropati (247 snaps) also missed the finale.
Independence Bowl: Louisiana Tech vs. Army
Louisiana Tech will replace Marshall in the Independence Bowl after the Thundering Herd opted out.
Louisiana Tech Transfer Portal
- Starting DT David Blay
- Starying CB Cedric Woods
- Starting DE J'Dan Burnett
- S Pig Cage (60 snaps)
- Backup QB Jack Turner
Army Transfer Portal
- Starting RB Kanye Udoh
Army Injuries
Edge Kyle Lewis is out for the year. Starting NT Kody Harris-Miller returned from injury for Navy game. Backup NT Jacob Tuioti suffered an injury in the Navy game after missing the AAC championship.
Army does have a couple of potential intriguing pro prospects along the offensive line, but I doubt we'd see any opt-outs.
Music City Bowl: Iowa vs. Missouri
Missouri Transfer Portal
- WR Mekhi Miller (337 snaps)
Missouri Opt-Outs
- WR Luther Burden
- RT Armand Membou
Missouri Potential Opt-Outs
- QB Brady Cook
- WR Theo Wease
Starting C Connor Tollison is out for the year after missing the past three games. The same is true for WR Mookie Cooper, who last played in Week 8. I'd assume Cook plays, but he did accept an invite to the Hula Bowl.
Iowa Transfer Portal
- QB Cade McNamara
- QB Marco Lainez
Iowa Opt-Outs
- Starting CB Jermari Harris
- Starting RB Kaleb Johnson
Iowa Potential Opt-Outs
- DB Sebastian Castro
Starting RT Gennings Dunker missed the final two games, while DE Brian Allen missed the finale.
Head coach Kirk Ferentz says Jackson Stratton and Brendan Sullivan will compete over the next three weeks to determine who will start in the bowl.
He leans toward Sullivan — the only remaining scholarship QB on the roster — who should be healthy by then.
ReliaQuest Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan
Michigan TE coach Steve Casula will serve as interim OC in place of the let go Kirk Campbell.
Alabama Transfer Portal
- Starting CB DeVonta Smith
- RB Justice Haynes (305 snaps)
- WR Kendrick Law (252 snaps)
- WR Kobe Prentice (129 snaps)
- OLB Keanu Koht (106 snaps)
- TE Danny Lewis (89 snaps)
- DL Jaheim Oatis (68 snaps; committed to Colorado)
Alabama Potential Opt-Outs
- QB Jalen Milroe (says he's playing)
- LB Jihaad Campbell
- LG Tyler Booker
- DE LT Overton
- S Malachi Moore
- CB Domani Jackson (says he'll play)
- C Parker Brailsford (returning next year)
Alabama LB Deontae Lawson and S Keon Sabb are out with injuries. Head coach Kalen DeBoer said he would let players like Milroe and Booker make their announcements on their own but feels good about the situation.
It looks as if DeBoer doesn't expect any opt-outs, but that could change.
Michigan Transfer Portal
- Starting WR Tyler Morris
- C Dominick Giudice (317 snaps)
- OT Andrew Gentry (115 snaps)
- P Tommy Doman (signed with Florida)
- Backup QB Alex Orji
Michigan Opt-Outs
- DT Mason Graham
- TE Colston Loveland
- RB Donovan Edwards
- CB Will Johnson
Michigan Potential Opt-Outs
- RB Kalel Mullings
- DE Josiah Stewart
- DT Kenneth Grant
- OLB Derrick Moore
- LB Jaishawn Barham
Star CB Will Johnson has been out with an injury and won’t play in the bowl. If I had to guess, Grant will sit out as well, but haven't seen confirmation.
Sun Bowl: Louisville vs. Washington
Washington head coach Jedd Fisch said he doesn’t expect anybody to sit out. Meanwhile, Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm said he wasn’t sure as of now.
Louisville Transfer Portal
- DT Jared Dawson (294 snaps)
- TE Jamari Johnson (176 snaps)
- RB Don Chaney (163 snaps)
- WR Jadon Thompson (69 snaps)
- S Devin Neal (99 snaps; signed with Virginia)
Louisville Opt-Outs
- QB Tyler Shough
- WR Ja’Corey Brooks
- DE Ashton Gillotte
I'd assume senior Harrison Bailey gets the start at quarterback, but Brohm could also go with one of the two younger options in Pierce Clarkson or Duece Adams.
Louisville Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Ahmari Huggins-Bruce V (declared for draft)
- CB Quincy Riley
Washington Transfer Portal
- Starting LT Kahlee Tafai
- RB Cam Davis (158 snaps; signed with Minnesota)
- LB Bryun Parham (104 snaps)
- DE Lance Holtzclaw (114 snaps)
Washington Potential Opt-Outs
- RB Jonah Coleman (says he's returning in 2025)
QB Will Rogers was benched for the finale, and Fisch stated Demond Williams will start in the bowl. DE Zach Durfee, DL Jayvon Parker and DL Russell Davis won’t play in the bowl game after sustaining injuries.
Citrus Bowl: South Carolina vs. Illinois
Illinois Transfer Portal
- WR Kenari Wilcher (55 snaps; also returned kicks)
- Backup QB Donovan Leary
Illinois Opt-Outs
- WR Pat Bryant
Head coach Bret Bielema said he expects everybody else to play. DE Seth Coleman did miss the finale, and starting LB Dylan Rosiek missed the final three games. Starting CB Kalen Patterson also missed the finale.
South Carolina Transfer Portal
- Backup QB Robby Ashford
South Carolina Opt-Outs
- DE Kyle Kennard
South Carolina Potential Opt-Outs
- S Nick Emmanwori
- DT TJ Sanders
- DT Tonka Hemingway
- RB Raheim Sanders
- LB Demetrius Knight
- WR Gage Larvadain
WR Vandrevius Jacobs (273 snaps) missed the finale with a hamstring injury, as did TE Brady Hunt (149 snaps). DE Dylan Stewart will return in 2025.
Texas Bowl: Baylor vs. LSU
Baylor Transfer Portal
- DE Trey Wilson (228 snaps)
- OL Alvin Ebosele (176 snaps)
- DL Kaian Roberts Day (91 snaps)
- Backup QB Dequan Finn
Baylor Potential Opt-Outs
- N/A
Baylor Injuries
CB Carl Williams hasn’t played since Week 10. OLB Steve Linton and OLB Garmon Randolph also missed the finale.
LSU Transfer Portal
- Starting WR CJ Daniels
- Starting S Sage Ryan
- DL Jay'viar Suggs (133 snaps)
- WR Shelton Sampson (104 snaps)
- CB JK Johnson (113 snaps; last played Week 5)
- OLB Da'Shawn Womack (103 snaps; signed with Ole Miss)
- S Jordan Allen (111 snaps)
- S Kylin Jackson (50 snaps)
LSU Opt-Outs
- OT Will Campbell (confirmed out)
- OT Emery Jones (confirmed out)
- TE Mason Taylor (confirmed out)
LSU has now seen both of its starting offensive tackles and its tight end declare early for the NFL Draft. Trey'Dez Green will be the only scholarship tight end available.
LSU Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Kyren Lacy
- DE Bradyn Swinson (says he will play)
- OG Garrett Dellinger (been injured)
- LB Greg Penn (still undecided; been playing with a broken rib)
- S Major Burns
- OG Miles Frazier (looks like he'll play and could slide out to tackle)
- DE Sai’vion Jones
- CB Zy Alexander
It looks like QB Garrett Nussmeier will play since he's returning next season.
Gator Bowl: Duke vs. Ole Miss
Ole Miss Transfer Portal
- Third-string QB Walker Howard (committed to Louisiana)
Ole Miss Opt-Outs
- LB Chris Paul Jr.
Ole Miss Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Juice Wells
- WR Tre Harris (also dealing with injury)
- DE Princely Umanmielen
- DE Jared Ivey (plans to play)
- DT Walter Nolen (plans to play)
CB Trey Amos confirmed he’ll play, as did QB Jaxson Dart.
Ole Miss Injuries
S Yam Banks and S Louis Moore didn’t play in the finale. RB Henry Parrish and WR Tre Harris finished the year injured.
Duke Transfer Portal
- Backup QB Grayson Loftis
Duke Opt-Outs
- Starting QB Maalik Murphy (committed to Auburn)
- Henry Belin IV will start.
Duke Potential Opt-Outs
- WR Jordan Moore
- CB Chandler Rivers
Duke head coach Manny Diaz said he doesn't expect any opt-outs.
Duke Injuries
Starting CB Kimari Robinson and RB Peyton Jones didn’t play in the finale.
First Responder Bowl: North Texas vs. Texas State
Texas State Transfer Portal
- Starting RB Ismail Mahdi
- Starting CB Josh Eaton
- Starting C Tyler Mercer
- DL Dominique Ratcliff (318 snaps)
- DE Ben Bell (opted out earlier in season)
Texas State Potential Opt-Out
- LG Nash Jones
Starting TE Konner Fox didn’t play in the finale. DE Steven Parker (367 snaps) missed the final three games.
North Texas Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Chandler Morris (committed to Virginia)
- Starting WR DT Sheffield
- Starting TE Oscar Hammond
- Starting C Tyler Morris
- S Jayven Anderson (181 snaps)
- CB Kerry Williams (113 snaps)
- WR Jeremiah Aaron (97 snaps)
- RB Ikaika Ragsdale (58 snaps; injured Week 2)
Without Morris, the Mean Green would likely turn to freshman Drew Mestemaker, who came in for Morris as the backup this season. Another freshman, Cash McCollum, could also be in the mix.
North Texas Injuries
Jett Duncan and Leke Asenuga suffered late-season injuries on the interior offensive line. UNT also lost starting OT Larry Moore midway through the season. Starting TE Oscar Hammond didn’t play the finale.
Duke's Mayo Bowl: Minnesota vs. Virginia Tech
Minnesota Transfer Portal
- RB Jordan Nubin (60 snaps)
- OL Phillip Daniels
Minnesota Potential Opt-Outs
- DE Danny Stiggow
- OT Aireontae Ersery
- DE Jah Joyner
- CB Justin Walley
- QB Max Brosmer
- OG Tyler Cooper
OL Quinn Carroll said he will play in a bowl, while S Aidan Gousby missed the final three games.
Virginia Tech Transfer Portal
- Starting LT Xavier Chaplin (signed with Auburn)
- Starting C Braelin Moore (likely to sign with LSU)
- Starting CB Mansoor Delane (committed to LSU)
- Starting S Mose Phillips
- LB Keli Lawson (276 snaps)
- RB Malachi Thomas (168 snaps)
- S Jalen Stroman (hurt all year)
Virginia Tech Opt-Outs
- DE Antwaun Powell-Ryland
- DT Aeneas Peebles
- WR Da’Quan Felton
Virginia Tech Potential Opt-Outs
- RB Bhayshul Tuten
- CB Dorian Strong
- WR Jaylin Lane
Keep an eye on Virginia Tech's QB situation, as both QB1 Kyron Drones and QB2 Collin Schlee ended the year injured. As of Dec. 13, Drones is not expected to play, according to head coach Brent Pry. It will either be Schlee or Pop Watson at QB.
Shawn Quinn will serve as DC for the bowl.
Pry said players in the portal could potentially play.
Bahamas Bowl: Buffalo vs. Liberty
Liberty Transfer Portal
- Starting QB Kaidon Salter
- Starting DL Bryce Dixon
- Starting LG Jordan White
- Starting RT Xavior Gray
- Starting LT Jordan Hall
- DL Eliyt Nairne (298 snaps)
Former App State transfer Ryan Burger will get the start at quarterback. Head coach Jamey Chadwell also stated that players in the portal won't play in the bowl game and he expects some more opt outs.
Liberty Injuries
Starting S Quinton Reese didn’t play in the finale. Neither did starting TE Bentley Hanshaw.
Buffalo Transfer Portal
- WR Javien Cuff (210 snaps)
Buffalo Injuries
Starting CB Marquis Cooper didn’t play in the finale.
