The first major question of the expanded college football playoff era has been answered. It appears that having home-field advantage in the opening round is quite significant.

Next, we delve into the second key theme as we approach the quarterfinals: Is winning a conference title and earning a first-round bye truly beneficial? Penn State showed no issues after a victory against SMU, following their win over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl.

The last three quarterfinal matches on New Year’s Day should reveal more about emerging trends. The day kicks off in Atlanta, then shifts to California for the second game, and wraps up near Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

Three teams will advance to the semifinals, while three others will close their seasons. Here’s everything you need to know about the matchups and schedule for your New Year’s Day viewing plans.

Peach Bowl – No. 4 Arizona State vs. No. 5 Texas

Time/TV/location: Wednesday, 1 p.m. ET, ESPN, Atlanta.

Why watch: The Sun Devils likely hoped to play in the Fiesta Bowl closer to home, but they are satisfied with their first-round bye after critics scrutinized the Big 12 throughout the fall. The Longhorns, another conference title game participant, aim to progress without further injury issues. The good news for Texas is QB Quinn Ewers showcased improvement against Clemson, effectively utilizing RB Jaydon Blue and TE Gunnar Helm. Arizona State’s defense, led by DBs Myles Rowser and Xavion Alford, needs to contain big plays. The Sun Devils’ star RB Cam Skattebo, who rushed for 2,074 yards this season and finished fifth in Heisman voting, will be the focus of the offense. QB Sam Leavitt will try to deliver the ball to him frequently, although he’ll miss support from injured WR Jordyn Tyson. Texas has a strong defense, with LB Anthony Hill Jr. often in the thick of things.

Why it might disappoint: The talent difference between the SEC and Big 12 will be tested in this game. Conversely, one may question how much the Longhorns’ depth has been affected by their earlier playoff game.

WHO WINS?: Expert predictions for the Arizona State-Texas Peach Bowl matchup.

Rose Bowl – No. 1 Oregon vs. No. 8 Ohio State

Time/TV/location: Wednesday, 5 p.m. ET, ESPN, Pasadena, Calif.

Why watch: If a rematch must occur in the playoffs, it should be a thrilling continuation of an earlier classic. If this game approaches the excitement of Oregon’s close 32-31 victory at Autzen Stadium on October 12, it will be a must-watch. Ducks QB Dillon Gabriel has likely improved since that game, while Ohio State’s secondary, including safeties Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs, is also tough and well-prepared. After an initially conservative strategy against Michigan, Ohio State displayed a much more aggressive offensive plan against Tennessee, with QB Will Howard successfully targeting his talented receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka. They performed well against the Ducks before, but Oregon’s LB Matayo Uiagalelei has become more of a game-changer.

Why it might disappoint: Could this rematch fail to meet expectations? The Buckeyes looked strong last we saw them, but the Ducks proved they can compete with them.

SECOND CHANCE: Will Howard looks forward to taking on Oregon again.

WHO WINS?: Expert predictions for the Ohio State-Oregon Rose Bowl showdown.

Sugar Bowl – No. 2 Georgia vs. No. 7 Notre Dame

Time/TV/location: Wednesday, 8:45 p.m. ET, ESPN, New Orleans.

Why watch: The quarterfinal matches close with a battle of football giants. In a round marked by dominant displays, the Fighting Irish perhaps had the most striking performance by neutralizing Indiana’s potent offense. Their strong defense, featuring DB Xavier Watts and LB Jack Kiser, now turns its focus towards Bulldogs QB Gunner Stockton, who is making his starting debut under intense pressure. Stockton’s mobility could provide a different dynamic to the team compared to former starter Carson Beck, but he will still rely on RBs Trevor Etienne and Nate Frazier to mitigate risks. On the other side, Notre Dame’s QB Riley Leonard possesses an equally dangerous dual-threat ability, and RB Jeremiyah Love can advance the ball significantly, as well. The versatility of Georgia’s front seven, particularly LB Jalon Walker, is significant in their strategy.

Why it might disappoint: If defenses dominate, this could devolve into a punting contest. Additionally, if early mistakes occur, it may prove difficult for either side to overcome a substantial lead.

WHO WINS?: Expert predictions for the Georgia-Notre Dame Sugar Bowl battle.