Football History

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The 1987 matchup between No. 3 Miami and No. 4 Florida State on October 3rd was a classic clash between two powerhouse college football programs. The game, played at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida, lived up to the hype, delivering a thrilling contest that will be remembered for years to come.

The Seminoles jumped out to an early lead, taking a 16-point advantage into the second half. However, Miami's resilient offense staged a remarkable comeback, fueled by the stellar play of quarterback Vinny Testaverde and running back Jerome Brown. The Hurricanes outscored Florida State 20-9 in the second half, eventually taking a 26-25 lead with just over a minute remaining.

With time running out, FSU had one last chance to win the game. Facing fourth-and-goal from the Miami 2-yard line, the Seminoles opted to go for a two-point conversion. Quarterback Danny McManus dropped back to pass, but his throw was deflected by Miami defensive back Bubba McDowell, preserving the Hurricanes' victory.

The Miami-Florida State game featured an incredible amount of future NFL talent. A total of 60 players from both teams went on to play in the NFL, including 10 first-round draft picks. The game also showcased the intense rivalry between these two programs, which has been one of the most compelling matchups in college football history.

The 1987 Miami-Florida State game remains a legendary contest, remembered for its dramatic finish, the incredible talent on display, and the fierce competition between two storied programs. It is a game that will be talked about for generations to come.

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The 1994 Colorado-Michigan football game, a classic showdown between two college football powers, will forever be remembered for its dramatic finish. The Wolverines, led by quarterback Todd Collins, appeared to be cruising to victory, holding a comfortable 26-14 lead late in the fourth quarter. However, Colorado, sparked by the electrifying play of quarterback Kordell Stewart and wide receiver Michael Westbrook, staged a furious comeback.

With time running out, Stewart connected with Westbrook for a crucial touchdown pass, narrowing Michigan's lead to 26-21. The Wolverines faced a third-and-seven situation, needing just one first down to seal the win. However, a costly false start penalty pushed them back, giving Colorado one last chance.  

The Buffs took over on their own 15-yard line with 15 seconds left. Stewart, in a desperate attempt to keep his team's hopes alive, launched a Hail Mary pass deep into the end zone. The ball hung in the air, seemingly destined to fall incomplete. But then, in a moment of pure magic, Blake Anderson, a Colorado receiver, tipped the ball toward Westbrook, who leaped over Michigan safety Chuck Winters and made an incredible one-handed catch for the game-winning touchdown.

The play, now famously known as "The Miracle at Michigan," sent shockwaves through the college football world. It was a stunning upset that defied all odds and showcased the extraordinary athleticism and determination of both Stewart and Westbrook. The fact that Westbrook, a Detroit native who had grown up playing youth football with Winters, made the winning catch against his former teammate added an extra layer of drama and emotion to the moment.

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On November 10, 1928, the iconic Yankee Stadium hosted a clash between two college football titans: Notre Dame and Army. This matchup, however, presented a unique twist. The Fighting Irish, typically a powerhouse, entered the game as underdogs, having suffered two losses. In contrast, the Black Knights boasted an undefeated 6-0 record.

Despite the odds, Notre Dame's legendary coach, Knute Rockne, possessed a secret weapon: his ability to inspire. At halftime, Rockne delivered a rousing speech that ignited the passion of his players. His words, "Win one for the Gipper!" became a rallying cry that echoed through the locker room.

The "Gipper" was George Gipp, a former Notre Dame player who had tragically passed away a few years earlier. Rockne, who had been by Gipp's side during his final moments, claimed that the fallen athlete had requested a final favor: to remind the team of him. Whether this tale was true or a piece of Rockne's motivational arsenal remains a mystery.

Nevertheless, the Irish players responded to the coach's impassioned plea. They stormed back onto the field, fueled by a desire to honor Gipp's memory. The result was a thrilling comeback victory, with Notre Dame emerging triumphant with a final score of 12-6. This game, forever linked to Rockne's inspiring speech, became a legendary chapter in college football history.

The 1988 matchup between Florida State and Clemson was a classic college football rivalry game. Held on September 17th in Tallahassee, Florida, it would go down in history as one of the most memorable plays in college football history.

There was a little more than a minute to play in a rain-soaked game and the score tied 21-21, the Seminoles lined up to punt from their own 20. Florida State coach Bobby Bowden called a play that would have an impact and a name that would engrain itself into football culture.

The play, known as the "Puntarooskie," was a turning point in the game and a highlight of the 1988 college football season. The snap from the center went to an upback, which is generally considered a personal protector in most punting situations. This player then handed the leather forward between the legs of LeRoy Butler, a lineman, who took off running 78 yards around the left end. The play was so unexpected and unorthodox that it caught everyone not wearing a Seminole uniform off guard.

Four plays later, Florida State's Richie Andrews kicked the winning 19-yard field goal. "We were determined," Bowden said, "somebody was going to win that game." FSU 24, Clemson 21 was the final.

The play, known as the "Puntarooskie," was a turning point in the game and a highlight of the 1988 college football season. Sanders' interception and touchdown return not only secured Florida State's victory but also solidified his reputation as one of the greatest defensive backs in college football history.

This game made it to number 99 on ESPN's list to top college games.

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The 1977 matchup between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Ohio State Buckeyes was a clash of titans that lived up to the hype. It was the first meeting between these two traditional football powers, and it didn't disappoint.

The Sooners came out firing, racing to a 20-0 lead in the second quarter. Their high-powered offense, led by quarterback Tom Stafford, seemed unstoppable. However, the Buckeyes, known for their tough defense, were not to be outdone. They rallied in the second half, scoring 28 unanswered points to take a 28-20 lead.

With the clock ticking down, the game entered its final minutes. The Sooners managed to score a touchdown with just over a minute left, but their two-point conversion attempt failed. The Buckeyes had a chance to seal the victory, but their subsequent kickoff was recovered by Oklahoma.

Enter Uwe von Schamann, the Sooners' kicker. He first executed a successful onside kick, giving his team another chance. Then, with the pressure mounting, he drilled a 41-yard field goal through the uprights, giving Oklahoma the stunning 29-28 victory.

The game was a classic, a testament to the competitive spirit and skill of both teams. It will be remembered as one of the greatest college football matchups of all time, a game that showcased the thrilling nature of the sport.

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On October 5, 2002, the Arkansas Razorbacks ventured to Knoxville to face off against the highly ranked Tennessee Volunteers in a crucial SEC matchup. The Volunteers, ranked 10th in the nation, were expected to dominate the game, but the Razorbacks had other plans.

What ensued was a nail-biting contest that would keep fans on the edge of their seats for hours. Both teams traded blows throughout the game, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity. The score remained close, and as the fourth quarter drew to a close, it was clear that this game would likely require overtime to determine a winner.

The extra periods were just as exciting as the regulation play. Both teams continued to score touchdowns, and the lead changed hands several times. The tension was palpable as each overtime session ended in a tie.

Finally, in the sixth overtime, Tennessee was able to break through. Jason Witen's touchdown catch gave the Volunteers the decisive points, securing a thrilling 41-38 victory over Arkansas. The game will be remembered as one of the most exciting and memorable contests in SEC history.

On October 10, 2009, the #2 Texas Longhorns traveled to Boulder, Colorado, to face the unranked Colorado Buffaloes in a crucial Big 12 Conference matchup. Despite expectations, the game unfolded as a defensive struggle, showcasing the grit and determination of both teams.

Defensive Dominance:

The star of the show was undoubtedly defense. Both units held their opponents to under 20 points, creating a tense and low-scoring affair. Texas, led by the "Wrecking Crew" defense, managed to stifle Colorado's potent running attack, while Colorado's defense forced crucial turnovers from Texas quarterback Colt McCoy.

Late-Game Heroics:

With the score tied at 14 and time winding down, the Longhorns needed a spark. Quarterback Colt McCoy delivered, orchestrating a decisive drive that culminated in a 32-yard field goal by Hunter Lawrence with just 1:55 remaining on the clock. Colorado's final attempt at a comeback fell short, securing a hard-fought 17-14 victory for Texas.

Key Takeaways:

The 2009 Colorado-Texas game was a defensive battle, with both teams showcasing their strength on that side of the ball.
Texas' defense, led by the "Wrecking Crew," was instrumental in securing the victory.
Quarterback Colt McCoy orchestrated a late-game drive to lead Texas to victory.
The win kept Texas' Big 12 championship hopes alive.

On September 28, 1940, a young Tom Harmon celebrated his 21st birthday in the most spectacular fashion. As the star quarterback of the Michigan Wolverines, Harmon led his team to a dominant victory over the California Golden Bears.

Harmon's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. He not only excelled as a passer, completing a high percentage of his throws, but he also showcased his incredible athleticism by running the ball effectively. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs was a sight to behold, leaving the crowd in awe.

The Wolverines' victory over Cal was a testament to Harmon's leadership and talent. His performance on his birthday solidified his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Michigan football history.

The Alabama Crimson Tide and the Ole Miss Rebels played one of the greatest SEC games in history on October 4, 1969. The game was a rare prime-time TV game for the time and featured four lead changes in the fourth quarter. Ole Miss quarterback Archie Manning had a great game, throwing for 436 yards and rushing for 104 yards. He also scored five touchdowns, three rushing and two passing.

Alabama quarterback Scott Hunter threw a touchdown pass to George Ranager with just seconds left in the game to give Alabama the win. The offenses combined to set one NCAA and nine SEC records. The final score Number 15 Alabama 33, Number 20 Ole Miss 32.

The 1931 clash between the USC Trojans and Notre Dame Fighting Irish wasn't just any college football game. It was a pivotal moment in the sport's history, etching itself in lore for its dramatic comeback and its impact on the national championship conversation.

On November 21, 1931, when the USC Trojans traveled to South Bend to face Notre Dame it was a game for the ages! In fact, it is considered one of the Greatest College Games ever.

-Dominant Irish, Underdog Trojans: The stage was set for a classic. Notre Dame, boasting a 26-game unbeaten streak and national championship aspirations, entered the contest heavily favored. USC, on the other hand, carried a strong 6-1 record but lacked the national recognition of their opponents.

-A Fourth-Quarter Hail Mary: Notre Dame lived up to expectations early, building a seemingly insurmountable 14-0 lead heading into the final quarter. However, the Trojans refused to surrender. Led by quarterback Gaius Shaver and halfback Erny Pinkert, USC mounted a furious comeback. Key plays and a never-say-die attitude chipped away at the deficit.

-Johnny Baker's Game-Winner: With just over a minute remaining, the score tied at 14-14, USC faced a crucial fourth-down situation. Kicker Johnny Baker stepped up to the challenge, nailing a game-winning 33-yard field goal. This dramatic finish sent shockwaves through college football.

-A Turning Point: The 16-14 victory for USC not only snapped Notre Dame's unbeaten streak but also catapulted the Trojans into the national championship conversation. Though there wasn't a single, official title awarded back then, USC's dominant season, culminating in this upset victory, earned them recognition by many as the national champions.

-A Legacy of Drama: The 1931 USC-Notre Dame game is remembered as a testament to perseverance and the power of a well-executed comeback. It cemented the rivalry between these two powerhouse programs and stands as a landmark moment in college football history, forever immortalized as a classic example of grit and determination overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.