College football is a sport with a rich tradition and a passionate following. Fans of the game love to debate which teams are the best, which players are the most talented, and which games are the most exciting. One of the most hotly contested debates among college football fans is which games are the best of all time. There have been many great games played over the years, but a few stand out above the rest.
One of the most famous college football games of all time is the 1982 Orange Bowl between the Penn State Nittany Lions and the Georgia Bulldogs. The game was played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida, and it was a back-and-forth affair that came down to the final play. Penn State eventually won the game 27-23, but not before Georgia had rallied from a 20-point deficit to tie the game in the fourth quarter. The game is still considered one of the greatest college football games ever played, and it is often shown on highlight reels and documentaries.
Another great college football game was the 2007 Fiesta Bowl between the Boise State Broncos and the Oklahoma Sooners. The game was played in front of a sold-out crowd at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, and it was a huge upset. Boise State was a 38-point underdog going into the game, but they shocked the world by defeating Oklahoma 43-42 in overtime. The game is still remembered as one of the greatest upsets in college football history, and it helped to put Boise State on the map as a major college football power.
Unforgettable Rivalries and Epic Battles
1. The Play (Cal v. Stanford, 1982)
In the most unforgettable play in college football history, Cal’s Kevin Moen returned the kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown with just four seconds remaining. The Golden Bears had already overcome a 20-point deficit in the fourth quarter, and the electrifying play gave them a 25-20 victory. The moment is enshrined in college football lore and has been dubbed “The Play” by generations of fans.
The game, played at Stanford Stadium, was the 101st edition of the Big Game, the annual rivalry between Cal and Stanford. Cal had trailed 20-0 in the third quarter, but a late rally and a game-tying field goal with five seconds remaining set the stage for Moen’s heroics.
| Play | Year | Teams | Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Catch | 1981 | Stanford v. Cal | Stanford Stadium |
| The Play | 1982 | Cal v. Stanford | Stanford Stadium |
| The Drive | 1983 | Miami v. Boston College | Orange Bowl |
| The Kick | 1990 | Florida State v. Miami | Doak Campbell Stadium |
| The Fiesta Bowl Miracle | 2007 | Boise State v. Oklahoma | Fiesta Bowl |
Triumphs and Heartbreaks: Unforgettable Moments
The Kick: Texas A&M 35, LSU 34 (1975)
Known simply as “The Kick,” this field goal by Russell Erxleben is considered one of the most iconic moments in college football history. With no time remaining, Erxleben drilled a 60-yard field goal to give Texas A&M a miraculous victory over LSU. The kick sent shockwaves through the college football world and cemented Erxleben’s legacy as one of the greatest kickers of all time.
The Catch: Miami 22, Boston College 21 (1984)
In a game that would define the 1984 season, Miami faced a 4th and 17 situation on the Boston College 45-yard line with 1:46 remaining. Quarterback Bernie Kosar heaved a desperation pass toward wide receiver Michael Irvin, who made an incredible one-handed catch while falling to the ground. The catch set up the game-winning touchdown by Alonzo Highsmith and gave Miami its first national championship in over a decade.
The Run: Appalachian State 34, Michigan 32 (2007)
In a shocking upset that made national headlines, FCS Appalachian State defeated #5 Michigan in one of the greatest upsets in college football history. The game-winning touchdown came with 26 seconds remaining, when running back Armanti Edwards broke tackles and shed defenders on a 28-yard touchdown run. The Mountaineers’ victory sent shockwaves through the college football world and proved that anything is possible in the sport.
The Fumble: Auburn 23, Florida 20 (2006)
With just 30 seconds remaining and Auburn leading by three points, Florida had the ball on the Auburn 3-yard line and was threatening to score the game-winning touchdown. However, on the final play of the game, Auburn’s Carlos Rogers forced Florida quarterback Chris Leak to fumble the ball, and the Tigers recovered to clinch the victory. The play became known as the “Prayer in Jordan-Hare” due to the home crowd’s fervent prayers for a stop.
| Rank | Play | Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Kick: Texas A&M 35, LSU 34 | 1975 |
| 2 | The Catch: Miami 22, Boston College 21 | 1984 |
| 3 | The Run: Appalachian State 34, Michigan 32 | 2007 |
| 4 | The Fumble: Auburn 23, Florida 20 | 2006 |
Best Plays in College Football (#3)
In the annals of college football history, few moments have etched themselves into the collective consciousness as vividly as the “Miracle in Miami.” On January 1, 1984, No. 20 Miami Hurricanes faced No. 2 Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Orange Bowl. With the game tied at 31-31 and just 26 seconds remaining, Miami’s quarterback Bernie Kosar found wide receiver Mark Whipple in the end zone with a desperation pass for a 34-yard touchdown. The win propelled Miami to their first national championship in program history and immortalized the play as one of the most dramatic and iconic in the sport.
The Road to the Orange Bowl
Miami’s journey to the Orange Bowl was marked by both adversity and triumph. The Hurricanes entered the season as a preseason top-10 team but stumbled to a 4-4 record in their first eight games. However, they rallied with a five-game winning streak to earn a berth in the Bowl. Nebraska, on the other hand, had a more dominant regular season, finishing with an 11-1 record and a No. 2 ranking in the AP Poll.
The Game Itself
The Orange Bowl was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout the contest. Miami took an early lead but trailed by 15 points at halftime. In the second half, the Hurricanes fought back to tie the game at 31-31. With time running out, Kosar and Whipple executed the game-winning touchdown pass, completing one of the most memorable comebacks in college football history.
Legacy of the Miracle in Miami
The “Miracle in Miami” has become synonymous with the magic of college football. The play is often cited as the defining moment of Kosar’s career and is still hailed as one of the greatest throws in the sport’s history. The victory propelled Miami into the national spotlight and cemented their place as a college football powerhouse. The impact of the play extends beyond the gridiron; it has become a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of belief in the face of adversity.
| Line | Yards |
|---|---|
| Line of Scrimmage | 30 |
| Mark Whipple Reception | 4 |
Legacy and Lineage: Historical Heavyweights
The Original 25
College football’s landscape has undergone numerous transformations over the years, but the sport’s enduring legacy remains firmly rooted in its storied venues. Among these hallowed grounds, 25 stadiums stand apart as icons of the game, each possessing a unique blend of history, tradition, and architectural grandeur.
These stadiums have witnessed countless memorable moments, from thrilling victories to heart-stopping defeats. They have hosted legendary players, iconic coaches, and unforgettable rivalries. Their names evoke a sense of nostalgia and reverence among fans of all ages.
The Horseshoe: Ohio State University
| Stadium’s Capacity: | 102,780 |
| Opened: | 1922 |
| Notable Features: | Oval-shaped seating bowl, Horseshoe end zone |
The Horseshoe, or Ohio Stadium as it is officially known, is regarded by many as the granddaddy of college football stadiums. Its imposing horseshoe-shaped seating bowl, towering end zones, and massive capacity (102,780) create an unparalleled atmosphere for college football.
Ohio State has called the Horseshoe home since 1922, and the stadium has witnessed the Buckeyes win numerous national championships and produce countless iconic players. From Woody Hayes to Archie Griffin to Troy Smith, the Horseshoe has been the backdrop for some of the most memorable moments in college football history.
Unexpected Underdogs: Triumphs Over Adversity
In the annals of college football, the underdogs have often risen to the challenge, overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds to achieve legendary victories. These unexpected triumphs remind us of the power of human spirit and the indefinable nature of sports.
Appalachian State Mountaineers vs. Michigan Wolverines (2007)
The Appalachian State Mountaineers, a small FCS (formerly Division I-AA) program, pulled off one of the greatest upsets in college football history when they defeated the defending national champion Michigan Wolverines 34-32 in 2007. Quarterback Armanti Edwards led the Mountaineers to a stunning 15-play, 75-yard touchdown drive in the final minutes, securing a victory that sent shockwaves through the college football world.
Houston Cougars vs. Penn State Nittany Lions (2015)
In 2015, the Houston Cougars, led by quarterback Greg Ward Jr., faced the mighty Penn State Nittany Lions in the TaxSlayer Bowl. Despite being a 14-point underdog, Houston came out swinging, dominating both sides of the ball. Ward Jr. threw for 310 yards and a touchdown, while the Cougar defense held Penn State to just 217 total yards. Houston emerged victorious with a resounding 38-24 upset.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Washington State Cougars (2017)
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights had not won a conference game since October 2014, a streak that spanned 21 games. However, in 2017, they faced the Washington State Cougars, who were ranked 25th in the nation. Despite being a 27-point underdog, Rutgers quarterback Gio Rescigno led a valiant comeback, throwing for 310 yards and two touchdowns. The Scarlet Knights held on to win 41-38, snapping their long losing streak in dramatic fashion.
UCF Knights vs. Auburn Tigers (2018)
The UCF Knights had never defeated a Power Five team in their history. However, in 2018, they traveled to Auburn and faced the No. 10 Auburn Tigers. With quarterback McKenzie Milton at the helm, UCF put up a record-breaking performance, scoring 38 points in the first half. They held on to win 38-28, not only breaking their Power Five winless streak but also earning a spot in the New Year’s Six bowl game.
James Madison Dukes vs. North Dakota State Bison (2023)
In the 2023 FCS National Championship Game, the James Madison Dukes faced the two-time defending champion North Dakota State Bison. The Dukes were a 7.5-point underdog, but they stunned the Bison with a dominant performance. Running back Jaret Patterson rushed for 140 yards and a touchdown, while the Duke defense held the Bison to just 266 total yards. James Madison emerged victorious with a 28-14 upset, claiming their first FCS National Championship in program history.
| Rank | Underdog Team | Upset Team | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Appalachian State Mountaineers | Michigan Wolverines | 34-32 |
| 2 | Houston Cougars | Penn State Nittany Lions | 38-24 |
| 3 | Rutgers Scarlet Knights | Washington State Cougars | 41-38 |
| 4 | UCF Knights | Auburn Tigers | 38-28 |
| 5 | James Madison Dukes | North Dakota State Bison | 28-14 |
The Art of Strategy: Masterful Coaching and Playcalling
6. The Power of Misdirection:
Misdirection plays manipulate defenses by deceiving them about the true nature or path of the play. They rely on deceptive formations, complex motions, and clever use of eye manipulation to create confusion and uncertainty.
Types of Misdirection:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Fake Handoffs | Pretending to hand the ball to a player, while actually passing or running in a different direction. |
| Screen Passes | Sending a receiver towards the defense to block for a quarterback or running back, creating a passing lane and disrupting the defense’s coverage. |
| Reverse Plays | Running a play in the opposite direction of the initial motion, catching the defense off guard by reversing the flow of the game. |
| Flea Flickers | Faking a handoff to a running back, who then laterals the ball back to the quarterback who passes it downfield. |
| Jet Sweeps | Sending a receiver or running back in motion across the formation before they receive the ball, creating a decoy for another play. |
Misdirection plays are particularly effective when executed precisely and with coordination, as they often rely on multiple players working together to deceive the defense. They not only create scoring opportunities but also keep defenses on their toes and exploit their weaknesses.
Impactful Innovations: Evolution of the Game
7. The Spread Offense
The spread offense, introduced in the late 20th century, revolutionized the game by spreading the field horizontally. Instead of traditional formations with multiple running backs and tight ends, the spread offense features four or five wide receivers. This allows teams to create more space for receivers to operate, making it more difficult for defenses to cover the entire field. The spread offense has also led to an increase in passing yardage and points per game.
Advantages:
– Creates more space for receivers to operate
– Makes it more difficult for defenses to cover the entire field
– Leads to an increase in passing yardage and points per game
Disadvantages:
– Can be more susceptible to turnovers
– Requires a quarterback with a strong arm and accurate passing ability
– Can put more pressure on the offensive line
8. Vince Young scrambles for the title: 2006 Rose Bowl
In the 2006 Rose Bowl, Texas quarterback Vince Young etched his name into college football history with a legendary performance. Facing off against the No. 1-ranked USC Trojans, Young unleashed a dazzling display of athleticism and determination that would ultimately propel the Longhorns to a thrilling 41-38 victory.
With the game tied at 38 and just seconds remaining on the clock, Young took the snap and surveyed the Trojan defense. As the Trojans closed in, Young took off on a breathtaking scramble, his eyes fixed on the end zone. He dodged tacklers, sliced through gaps, and surged forward with an unmatched urgency. The USC defenders pursued relentlessly, but Young’s speed and agility proved unstoppable. Finally, with the clock ticking down to zero, Young burst through the Trojan line and dove into the end zone, securing the Rose Bowl trophy for Texas.
Young’s game-winning run was a perfect encapsulation of his extraordinary talent and unwavering will. It was a moment that would forever be remembered in college football lore, solidifying Young’s status as one of the greatest players of all time.
Key Stats:
| Player | Stat |
|---|---|
| Vince Young | 20 carries, 200 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns |
| Reggie Bush | 16 carries, 152 rushing yards, 1 touchdown |
Shaping Tomorrow’s Stars: College Football as a Pro Pipeline
9. The 2007 Fiesta Bowl: Boise State’s Statue of Liberty Play
In the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, underdogs Boise State faced off against powerhouses Oklahoma. With just seconds remaining and the score tied at 43-43, Boise State pulled off one of the most iconic plays in college football history: the Statue of Liberty play. Quarterback Jared Zabransky faked a handoff to running back Ian Johnson, then received a lateral and ran around right end. He lateraled the ball to Johnson, who ran down the field for a 50-yard touchdown to secure Boise State’s thrilling victory. This play not only showcased Boise State’s creativity and execution but also cemented their status as a rising force in college football. It also served as a reminder that even underdogs can triumph on the biggest stages.
Key Players:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Jared Zabransky | Quarterback |
| Ian Johnson | Running Back |
Impact:
- Elevated Boise State’s profile on the national stage
- Showcased the creativity and innovation possible in football
- Inspired underdog teams everywhere
The Intangibles: Passion, Spirit, and Tradition
10. The 12th Man (Texas A&M)
The loudest crowd in college football, the 12th Man, is an intimidating force for opposing teams at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field. The student section’s passionate cheers and elaborate traditions create a hostile environment for visiting teams, making them feel like they’re outnumbered even when they’re not. The 12th Man’s role in Texas A&M’s success cannot be overstated, and they deserve their place among the best traditions in college football.
|
Passion: Fans are extremely passionate about their team and will go to great lengths to support them. Spirit: Fans are always in good spirits, even when their team is losing. Tradition: Fans have a strong sense of tradition and take pride in their team’s history. |
Best Plays in College Football 2023
College football is known for its thrilling moments and incredible plays. From breathtaking catches to bone-crushing tackles, the sport never fails to deliver excitement. Here are some of the most memorable plays from the 2023 season:
People Also Ask
What was the most impressive touchdown of the season?
The most impressive touchdown of the season was a 99-yard punt return by Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry against Mississippi State. McKinstry showcased his exceptional speed and agility as he outran the entire Mississippi State team to score.
Which game featured the most dramatic ending?
The most dramatic ending of the season came in the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry game. With Ohio State trailing by one point with just seconds remaining, quarterback C.J. Stroud connected with wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. for a game-winning touchdown.
Who made the most game-changing interception?
The most game-changing interception of the season came from Georgia’s Kelee Ringo in the National Championship Game. With Alabama driving for a potential game-tying score, Ringo intercepted Bryce Young’s pass and returned it for a touchdown, effectively sealing the victory for Georgia.
