The Cotton Bowl, one of the most prestigious college football bowl games, has long been a venue where exciting matchups between top teams are complemented by unforgettable entertainment. While the specific lineup for the 2025 Cotton Bowl’s halftime show hasn’t been confirmed as of now, we can make some educated guesses and explore the kinds of performers that could grace the stage during the highly anticipated clash between Ohio State and Texas.
In the following discussion, we will look at the history of halftime performances at major college football events, possible trends in the types of acts that are typically featured, and some of the most likely performers for the 2025 Cotton Bowl halftime show based on their current popularity, style, and connections to the college football world.
The Significance of Halftime Shows in Major Bowl Games
Halftime shows at college football bowl games are typically a spectacle that blends sports with entertainment, providing a break for the players, while giving fans an unforgettable experience. The major bowl games, including the Cotton Bowl, often attract a diverse audience, including college students, alumni, sports enthusiasts, and music lovers. The halftime performance serves to enhance the atmosphere and ensure the event remains memorable for viewers both in the stadium and watching from home.
These performances can range from big-name pop stars to iconic bands or even country music legends. In the past, the Cotton Bowl’s halftime show has featured a variety of acts, including famous musicians and dancers, ensuring that every show has a unique flavor. Considering the Cotton Bowl’s historical prominence and the significance of the Ohio State vs. Texas game, fans can expect a high-profile and exciting performance for the 2025 edition.
Recent Trends in Halftime Performances
The 2025 Cotton Bowl will likely follow similar trends set by past college football bowl games. In recent years, music acts selected for college football bowl games have often been top-tier artists known for their wide appeal. These acts generally align with the preferences of college students and sports fans, spanning multiple genres such as pop, rock, country, and hip-hop. With the growth of social media and streaming platforms, performers often selected are not only current chart-toppers but also artists who can help boost the event’s visibility through fan engagement.
Furthermore, the National Football League (NFL) has provided a blueprint with its Super Bowl halftime shows, which frequently feature globally recognized performers. Similar strategies are often employed at college football games, where halftime performances aim to appeal to a broad, multi-generational audience, while also drawing attention to the game itself.
The 2025 Ohio State vs. Texas Cotton Bowl: Potential Performers
Considering the game’s exciting matchup, where two powerhouse teams from the Big Ten and the Big 12 (or the Big 10 and the SEC if realignment changes by 2025) meet, the halftime entertainment will likely be as electrifying as the on-field action. Here’s a look at some potential performers for the 2025 Cotton Bowl halftime show:
1. Taylor Swift
Perhaps one of the most likely candidates to perform at the 2025 Cotton Bowl halftime show is Taylor Swift, one of the biggest pop stars of the last decade. With her massive crossover appeal—spanning country, pop, and indie genres—Swift has a broad fanbase that includes college students, older fans, and even casual sports fans. Given Swift’s consistent dominance on the charts, her historical ties to the country music scene, and her popularity with the younger demographic, she could be a natural fit for the show.
Swift is also no stranger to large-scale performances. She has headlined stadium tours, such as her “Reputation” and “Eras” tours, and has performed at high-profile events like the American Music Awards and the Grammys. If she is not on tour in 2025, the Cotton Bowl could be a perfect stage for her to showcase new material or celebrate her legacy.
2. Luke Combs
Luke Combs, a country music sensation, could also be a highly likely choice for the 2025 halftime show. Texas is known for its deep-rooted country music culture, and Ohio State has its fair share of country music fans. Combs is a stadium-level artist, having played large venues across the country, and his blend of contemporary country with classic influences would resonate well with both college football fans and music lovers.
Moreover, the Cotton Bowl has a tradition of hosting artists who can reflect the cultural region of the host city. Since Combs is one of the most successful country artists of the 2020s, his inclusion would be both fitting and highly popular, especially in Texas, where country music is beloved.
3. Post Malone
Post Malone, the Grammy-nominated hip-hop and pop star, would be another strong contender for the halftime show. He has a versatile musical style that blends rap, rock, and pop, making him appealing to a wide range of fans. With millions of followers across streaming platforms and social media, Post Malone is an artist who brings significant visibility to any event he participates in.
Post Malone is also known for his high-energy performances and ability to engage with large crowds, which would be ideal for a major college football bowl game. His music has been a hit across college campuses and his collaborations with other artists span various genres, making him a great fit for a diverse audience.
4. Lil Nas X
Lil Nas X is another artist who has captured the attention of college-aged audiences and sports fans alike. With his viral success, including his chart-topping hits like “Old Town Road,” Lil Nas X has become a global sensation. His ability to combine elements of hip-hop, pop, and country has made him a household name, and his vibrant stage presence would be a welcome addition to the Cotton Bowl’s halftime festivities.
Lil Nas X’s dynamic personality and boundary-pushing approach to music and fashion make him a standout performer who could help bring an edgy, modern vibe to the event. Additionally, his connection to both hip-hop culture and country music could be a perfect bridge between the varied musical tastes of Ohio State and Texas fans.
5. Beyoncé
Though she is one of the most sought-after and high-profile artists in the world, Beyoncé could be an aspirational choice for the 2025 Cotton Bowl. As a native of Texas, Beyoncé could bring a deep personal connection to the event, especially with Texas fans. She is renowned for her incredible live performances, often bringing unmatched energy and style to every stage she steps onto.
Her musical catalog spans R&B, pop, and even rock influences, which could captivate a diverse audience. With Beyoncé’s history of performing at major events, including the Super Bowl halftime show, her inclusion would elevate the Cotton Bowl’s profile to an even greater level. Fans of all generations would undoubtedly be excited to witness the Queen B take the stage.
6. Megan Thee Stallion
As a Texas native, Megan Thee Stallion would be an exciting performer to consider for the 2025 Cotton Bowl halftime show. The rapper has become an influential figure in hip-hop, and her energetic and charismatic performances are known for generating a lot of buzz. Her connection to Texas makes her an ideal choice to represent the state during such a high-profile event.
Megan’s music resonates with younger generations, particularly college students, and her collaborations with other mainstream artists have kept her in the spotlight. A halftime show featuring her could bring a high-energy performance that appeals to fans of both sports and hip-hop music.
7. The Weeknd
After his highly successful Super Bowl halftime performance in 2021, The Weeknd’s reputation as a top-tier performer has only grown. Known for his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music, The Weeknd would be a great choice for the Cotton Bowl halftime show. His music is universally popular, and his ability to put on a captivating show would draw in viewers both in the stadium and watching on TV.
His track record of success and ability to play to large crowds makes him a versatile performer who would work well in the Cotton Bowl environment, especially considering his international following.
