Dec 5, 2009

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The stage was set for a thrilling college football showdown as the 15th-ranked Pitt Panthers squared off against the 5th-ranked Cincinnati Bearcats at Heinz Field. Led by coach Dave Wannstedt, the Panthers aimed to capitalize on home-field advantage, while coach Brian Kelly's Bearcats sought to solidify their national title aspirations.

The first half belonged to the Panthers, as they built a commanding 21-point lead. Running back Dion Lewis spearheaded the offensive charge, finding the end zone twice, while quarterback Bill Stull connected with wide receiver Jonathan Baldwin for another touchdown. However, the Bearcats, led by the explosive Mardy Gilyard, refused to back down. Gilyard unleashed a spectacular performance, racking up 374 yards and two touchdowns as Cincinnati clawed their way back into the game.

With just over a minute remaining, Lewis's third rushing touchdown put the Panthers ahead 44-38. But a crucial mistake on the extra-point attempt, a muffed snap, kept the door open for the Bearcats. Cincinnati capitalized on the opportunity, as quarterback Tony Pike found Armon Binns for a 29-yard touchdown pass with 33 seconds left, securing a thrilling 45-44 victory. This unforgettable game, later ranked 127th on ESPN's list of the Greatest College Games, is a testament to the unpredictable nature of college football and the power of perseverance.

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The 2009 Dr. Pepper Big 12 Championship Game between the Texas Longhorns and Nebraska Cornhuskers will forever be etched in college football lore. This heated rivalry clash, held at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a controversial finish that left fans on the edge of their seats.

Led by legendary coaches Mack Brown and Bo Pelini, the two teams battled fiercely throughout the game. With the score tied 10-10, the final seconds ticked away. Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, facing pressure from Nebraska defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh, launched a desperation pass well out of bounds. As the clock hit zero, Nebraska fans erupted in celebration, believing they had secured a hard-fought victory.

However, a controversial replay review added one second back to the clock, giving Texas one final chance. Kicker Hunter Lawrence calmly stepped up and drilled a 46-yard field goal as time expired, propelling the Longhorns to a thrilling 13-12 victory. This dramatic finish earned the game a spot on ESPN's list of the 66 Greatest College Football Games of All Time.