Birmingham Bowl

The Birmingham Bowl is a prominent college football bowl game held annually in Birmingham, Alabama. Established in 2006, the game is part of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) postseason. Known for showcasing competitive matchups and vibrant fan experiences, the Birmingham Bowl has become a staple in the college football calendar.

The Birmingham Bowl began as the PapaJohns.com Bowl, reflecting the sponsorship of the pizza chain. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes due to different sponsorship deals, including the BBVA Compass Bowl and recently, the TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl.

Played at Protective Stadium since 2021, the game was previously held at historic Legion Field, a venue often referred to as the “Football Capital of the South.” The move to Protective Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility, reflects Birmingham’s commitment to enhancing the fan and player experience.

The Birmingham Bowl typically features teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the American Athletic Conference (AAC). These conferences are known for producing high-caliber programs, ensuring a competitive and entertaining game. In cases where the SEC or AAC cannot provide eligible teams, the bowl may select participants from other conferences, such as the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) or Conference USA.

Team selection is influenced by regular-season records, standings, and the potential for exciting matchups. The bowl committee works closely with conferences to create a game that appeals to fans and highlights the talent of participating teams.

Beyond the action on the field, the Birmingham Bowl has a significant economic and cultural impact. Each year, it draws thousands of fans to the city, boosting local businesses and showcasing Birmingham as a destination for sports enthusiasts. The event also contributes to the community through charitable initiatives and partnerships with local organizations.

 

Past PapaJohns.com Bowl games & results:

  • 2024 Birmingham Bowl – Vanderbilt 35 – Georgia Tech 27 – December 27, 2024
  • 2023 Birmingham Bowl – Duke 17 – Troy 10 – December 23, 2023
  • 2022 Birmingham Bowl – East Carolina 53 – Coastal Carolina 29 – Dec. 27, 2022
  • 2021 Birmingham Bowl – Houston 17 – Auburn 13 – December 28, 2021
  • 2020 Birmingham Bowl – Canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic
  • 2019 Birmingham Bowl – Cincinnati 38 – Boston College 6 – January 2, 2020
  • 2018 Birmingham Bowl – Wake Forest 37 – Memphis 34 – December 22, 2015
  • 2017 Birmingham Bowl – South Florida 38 – Texas Tech 34 – December 23, 2017
  • 2016 Birmingham Bowl – South Florida 46 – South Carolina 39 – OT – Dec. 29, 2015
  • 2015 Birmingham Bowl – Auburn 31 – Memphis 10 – December 30, 2015
  • 2014 Birmingham Bowl – Florida 28 – East Carolina 20 – January 3, 2015
  • 2013 BBVA Compass Bowl – Vanderbilt 41 – Houston 24 – January 4, 2014
  • 2012 BBVA Compass Bowl – Ole Miss 38 – Pittsburgh 17 – January 5, 2013
  • 2011 BBVA Compass Bowl – SMU 28 – Pittsburgh 6 – January 7, 2012
  • 2010 BBVA Compass Bowl – Pittsburgh 27 – Kentucky 10 – January 8, 2011
  • 2009 PapaJohns.com Bowl – UConn 20 – South Carolina 7 – Jan. 2, 2010
  • 2008 PapaJohns.com Bowl – Rutgers 29 – NC State 23 – Dec. 29, 2008
  • 2007 PapaJohns.com Bowl – Cincinnati 31 – Southern Miss 21 – Dec. 22, 2007
  • 2006 PapaJohns.com Bowl – South Florida 24 – East Carolina 7 – Dec. 23, 2006