Rose Bowl 2015: Viewing Information and Predictions for Oregon vs. Florida State

After all of the presents have been opened, the ball drops in New York and the first meal of the New Year has been eaten, the first game of the College Football Playoff will kick off.

The Rose Bowl, known as the oldest bowl since starting in 1902, will set the stage for the inaugural playoff. Of course, the two teams playing in the epic game make the first semifinal even more enticing.

Oregon comes into the matchup with one of the most high-powered offenses in the country led by Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota. Florida State has a Heisman winner, too, with Jameis Winston looking to keep the Seminoles' unblemished record intact.

Before the first semifinal kicks off, here's a look at the full viewing information and predictions for the Rose Bowl.

2015 Rose Bowl Information

Where: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California

When: Jan. 1 at 5 p.m. ET

TV: ESPN

Live Stream: WatchESPN

Rose Bowl Predictions

The hype machine is a funny thing. Sometimes players are built up and crumble under expectations. During the Rose Bowl, fans will get to watch two quarterbacks who have thrived under that pressure.

Sure, Winston hasn't been perfect all season, but he has still led his team to a perfect record with late comebacks nearly every week. The 2013 Heisman winner led the Seminoles on a final drive for the ages against Auburn last season to win the national title.

Albert Breer of NFL.com passed along his thoughts on those who question the Noles' dominance this season:

On the other side stands Mariota, who overtook Winston this season. His dual-threat ability saw him pass for 52 total touchdowns and just two interceptions. Compared to Winston's turnovers this year, Mariota looks the part of the more proven quarterback in the matchup.

Mariota's success has also led to him achieving success that has never been matched at Oregon. SportsCenter notes yet another award that Mariota pulled out earlier this week:

Holding down the offense this season, Mariota has made his presence known for the Ducks. Meanwhile, Ifo Ekpre-Olomu had done the same for Oregon's defense prior to his season-ending knee injury.

The dynamic cornerback had just two interceptions and 63 tackles on the season, but his impact on the team was much more than just his play. Mariota spoke about the effect of not having Ekpre-Olomu on the field, via Andrew Greif of The Oregonian:

"

He's been awesome ever since being injured but he's really kept everyone's spirits up and to have that type of leader even when he's not on the field is so pivotal. He understands that he still has a lot of influence even if he's not on the field. Guys will rally around him.

"

Paul Finebaum of ESPN also noted that the injury greatly benefits the FSU passing game:

Having a playmaker like Rashad Greene down the field for Winston, with Dalvin Cook in the backfield, the Noles can exploit the Ducks defense. The trio has been successful down the stretch, and Oregon's defense has been shredded several times this season.

However, that likely won't prove to be enough against the potent Oregon offense. With Mariota at the wheel, the Ducks will drive straight into the national championship game with a showdown against the winner of the Sugar Bowl.

Predicted final: Oregon 37, Florida State 31

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