JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — This December, the Missouri Tigers and the Virginia Cavaliers are heading to Jacksonville for the 81st installment of the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl.

Following Sunday’s announcements for postseason bowl placements in the Southeastern Conference, the #19 Virginia Cavaliers (ACC) have been selected to challenge the Tigers.

This much-anticipated matchup is set for Saturday, December 27, at EverBank Stadium, with a live primetime broadcast on ABC. The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. EST.

According to the Gator Bowl organizers, this encounter marks only the second face-off between these teams, the first being back in 1973. Missouri’s last Gator Bowl appearance was a victorious one in 1968, where they defeated Alabama 30-0. For Virginia, this will be their third appearance, with their most recent participation in 2008.

Virginia finished the season out with a record of 10-3, while Missouri finished 8-3.

“This game carries tremendous pride and reverence for our membership and our community,” said Gator Bowl Chairman Sara Pomposo. “The opportunity to host two top-tier teams in Virginia and Missouri as well as their players, coaches and fans to our city for a great week of activities celebrating both programs’ successful seasons.”

Tickets for the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl can be purchased online now.

ABC viewers will also be able to watch Texas (SEC) and Michigan (Big Ten) battle it out at the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in Orlando on Dec. 31 at 3 p.m. EST. 

The first rounds of the College Football Playoffs are scheduled for Dec. 19 and 20. 

ABC will air the following playoff games:

• Friday, Dec. 19, at 8 p.m.: Oklahoma vs. Miami
• Saturday, Dec. 20, at noon: Texas A&M vs. Miami