Friday Night Sports Extravaganza: What's On TV

Friday, Dec. 26, promises a thrilling lineup of sports events. College football fans can catch three exciting matches. First up is the GameAbove Sports Bowl at 1 p. m. on ESPN, featuring Central Michigan taking on Northwestern in Detroit. Later, at 4:30 p. m. , the Rate Bowl pits New Mexico against Minnesota in Phoenix, also on ESPN. Wrapping up the football action is the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at 8 p. m. on ESPN, where FIU and UTSA will battle it out in Dallas. Horse racing enthusiasts can tune in to FS2 at 3 p. m. for America’s Day at the Races, presented by NYRA.For hockey fans, the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship Group Stage offers a full day of action. Sweden faces Slovakia at 1 p. m. on NHLN in Saint Paul, followed by Denmark vs. Finland at 3:30 p. m. in Minneapolis. The evening kicks off with Germany vs. the U. S. at 6 p. m. in Saint Paul, and concludes with Czechia vs. Canada at 8:30 p. m. in Minneapolis, all on NHLN. Basketball lovers can enjoy NBA action on Prime Video. The Philadelphia 76ers take on the Chicago Bulls at 7:30 p. m. , followed by the L. A. Clippers vs. Portland Trail Blazers at 10 p. m. Soccer fans have plenty to look forward to as well. The day starts with Preston North End vs. Stoke City in the English League Championship at 9:55 a. m. on CBSSN. At 12:15 p. m. , Al Khaleej takes on Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League on FS2. The highlight of the day is the English Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at 3 p. m. on USA.