LA Bowl

The LA Bowl, officially known as the LA Bowl Presented by Stifel, is one of the most exciting and relatively new additions to the college football bowl season. Played annually at the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the game showcases a matchup between teams from the Mountain West Conference (MWC) and the Pac-12 Conference, making it a must-watch for fans of West Coast college football.

History and Background

The LA Bowl was established in 2021 as part of the expanded college football postseason lineup. It aimed to provide a premier platform for mid-major and Power Five conference teams to compete on a national stage while highlighting the vibrant football culture of Southern California.

The bowl was conceptualized with the support of the Pac-12 and Mountain West conferences and gained sponsorship from Stifel Financial, a leading wealth management and investment banking company. The partnership ensures the game maintains a high-profile presence in the college football landscape.

Venue: SoFi Stadium

SoFi Stadium, home to the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, is a crown jewel of modern sports venues. Opened in 2020, the stadium boasts cutting-edge technology, a massive Oculus video board, and a seating capacity of over 70,000, expandable to more than 100,000 for major events. The stadium’s prime location in the heart of Los Angeles enhances the bowl’s appeal, drawing fans, media, and players to the entertainment capital of the world.

Matchup and Conference Tie-Ins

The LA Bowl traditionally features the Mountain West champion or a top contender against a Pac-12 team, usually one that finishes in the middle tier of its standings. This matchup often creates an exciting clash of styles, pitting the grit and determination of Mountain West programs against the speed and talent of Pac-12 squads.

Impact on the Community

The LA Bowl has embraced a community-focused approach, emphasizing its role in giving back to the Los Angeles area. The game partners with local charities and hosts various community events, including youth football clinics and holiday outreach programs. These initiatives align with the broader mission of showcasing football as a unifying force in the diverse and dynamic Southern California region.

The Fan Experience

The LA Bowl offers fans more than just a football game. It features a festive atmosphere with pre-game tailgates, live music performances, and opportunities to explore the vibrant entertainment and dining scene around SoFi Stadium. The game has quickly become a destination event for fans seeking a memorable postseason experience.

Looking Ahead

As the LA Bowl grows in stature, it aims to solidify its place among college football’s marquee bowl games. Its location, conference tie-ins, and commitment to community engagement position it as a key fixture in the annual bowl lineup. With SoFi Stadium continuing to attract major sporting events, the LA Bowl will undoubtedly remain a highlight of the college football calendar.

For fans of West Coast football and anyone looking to experience a world-class bowl game in an iconic venue, the LA Bowl is a must-see event. It represents the best of college football, celebrating athletic excellence and community spirit in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

 

Past LA Bowl teams & scores:

  • 2024 LA Bowl – UNLV 24 – California 13 – December 18, 2024
  • 2023 LA Bowl – UCLA 35 – Boise State 22 – December 16, 2023
  • 2022 LA Bowl – Fresno State 29 – Washington State 6 – December 17, 2022
  • 2021 LA Bowl – Utah State 24 – Oregon State 13 – December 18, 2021