As the 2025 college football season kicks off, Cincinnati and Nebraska are set to clash for the first time in 119 years, sparking lively banter among former players and fans alike. Central to this spirited rivalry are Travis Kelce, a former Cincinnati player, and Will Compton, an ex-Nebraska linebacker turned media personality, who have made the matchup personal through a playful wager involving their respective alma maters.

The bet between Kelce and Compton, fueled by the enthusiasm of their podcast co-hosts Jason Kelce and Taylor Lewan, adds an entertaining angle to the rivalry. The challenge requires the losing school’s alumni to appear on the winner’s podcast dressed in the rival team’s gear, heightening anticipation among college football enthusiasts.

Unconventional Bet Raises Stakes with Unexpected Twist

After initially agreeing to wear opposing team apparel, Taylor Lewan raised the stakes by suggesting a stunt that references Jason Kelce’s recent viral moment. Lewan proposed that Will Compton should don a Bearcats Speedo without a shirt on the New Heights podcast if Nebraska lost, aiming to replicate the memorable charity event appearance by Jason Kelce in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.

Jason Kelce gained widespread attention during the Eagles Autism Foundation fundraiser by stripping down to a USA-themed Speedo and bartending publicly, an act that quickly became a viral sensation and showcased his willingness to embrace bold, humorous moments in public settings.

Travis Kelce Sets Clear Boundary on Speedo Challenge

While Jason Kelce’s Speedo stunt drew cheers and viral coverage, Travis Kelce was quick to reject the idea of participating in a similar act. Laughing but decisive, he stated,

I mean, I don’t want to get myself caught up in this shi*t. I ain’t trying to wear no Speedo.

This firm refusal signals that, despite the playful nature of the bet, Travis intends to avoid any moments that might overshadow his focus on the game and competition.

Travis’s caution seems reasonable, given that his brother’s Speedo moment drew an enormous reaction online and among fans, solidifying Jason’s reputation in a very unconventional way. The event was part of the fifth annual Team 62 fundraiser for the Eagles Autism Foundation, where Jason climbed on a chair and stripped to the tiny swimsuit, creating an unforgettable scene.

Confidence and Friendly Taunts Highlight the Upcoming Contest

Beyond the Speedo dare, Travis Kelce expressed optimism about Cincinnati’s prospects in the season opener against Nebraska. He reflected on his history of losing previous bets but remains hopeful for a win this time, saying,

I’ve lost so many fu*king bets that I think I’m due for a win. I wore Texas Tech’s mascot helmet, I wore BYU’s jersey last year… I think my Bearcats are gonna f*cking come through.

He also looked ahead to the consequences of a Nebraska defeat, teasingly addressing Compton,

You guys are gonna have to fu*king come on to New Heights, and you’re rocking a fu*king Cincinnati jersey.

Their back-and-forth exchanges have amplified excitement for the game while highlighting the camaraderie and competitive spirit between alumni.

Will Compton Welcomes the Challenge with Humor

Sporting a good-natured attitude, Will Compton readily accepted the terms of the bet and the prospect of donning a Cincinnati jersey. He declared,

I’ll rock a Cincinnati jersey… I’ll wear whatever you want. I’ll come in day of, and if you have something else extra to add, I’ll wear it. I’ll be yours… toss me around, paint me like one of your French girls.

His willingness to embrace the challenge reflects the friendly but intense rivalry taking shape ahead of the matchup.

The Impact of the Rivalry and What to Expect Next

This Cincinnati-Nebraska showdown, beyond the gridiron, has become a source of entertaining exchanges and engagement among football fans, alumni, and media personalities. The playful but high-stakes bet involving Travis Kelce, Will Compton, and their podcast teams has generated buzz and anticipation for Week 1 of the 2025 season.

With Travis Kelce firmly declining the Speedo dare while remaining confident in his team’s performance, the spotlight stays on the upcoming game and the wager’s outcome. Regardless of the final score, this off-field rivalry is poised to be one of college football’s most talked-about narratives as fans await the showdown between these historic programs.