Top 10 Most Watched College Football Games of All Time on TV
1. 1987 Fiesta Bowl: Penn State vs. Miami
The 1987 Fiesta Bowl, played on January 1, 1987, between Penn State and Miami, is one of the most iconic college football games in history. This game was a national championship showdown and was watched by an estimated 27.8 million viewers. Penn State, led by head coach Joe Paterno, secured a 14-10 victory over the Miami Hurricanes. The game is remembered for its intense defensive battle and a dramatic late touchdown by Penn State, which clinched the national title. The clash of styles and the high stakes made this a memorable contest in college football history.
2. 2006 Rose Bowl: Texas vs. USC
The 2006 Rose Bowl, played on January 4, 2006, was a classic showdown between the Texas Longhorns and the USC Trojans. With 25.4 million viewers tuning in, this game is renowned for its thrilling back-and-forth action and the emergence of Vince Young as a college football legend. Texas defeated USC 41-38 in a game that featured numerous lead changes and a game-winning touchdown by Young with just 19 seconds left on the clock. The matchup was a clash of two undefeated teams and was pivotal in cementing Vince Young's place in college football lore.
3. 2009 BCS National Championship: Florida vs. Oklahoma
The 2009 BCS National Championship Game, held on January 8, 2009, featured the Florida Gators taking on the Oklahoma Sooners. This game attracted 24.1 million viewers and saw Florida's dominant defense and efficient offense lead them to a 24-14 victory. Tim Tebow, the Gators' quarterback, played a crucial role, and his performance helped solidify his reputation as one of the greatest college football players of all time. The game is often remembered for Florida's defensive prowess and Tebow's leadership.
4. 2014 College Football Playoff National Championship: Ohio State vs. Oregon
The inaugural College Football Playoff National Championship, played on January 12, 2015, featured Ohio State and Oregon. This game, watched by 21.8 million people, showcased Ohio State's impressive run to the championship under head coach Urban Meyer. The Buckeyes defeated the Ducks 42-20, with quarterback Cardale Jones delivering a standout performance. The game marked the beginning of the new playoff era and was a significant milestone in college football's evolution.
5. 2003 BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma
The 2003 BCS National Championship Game, played on January 4, 2004, saw the LSU Tigers face the Oklahoma Sooners. The game drew 21.2 million viewers and featured a dominant performance by LSU, which won 21-14. LSU's defense was a key factor in their victory, and the game is remembered for the Tigers' ability to neutralize Oklahoma's potent offense. The win was a major achievement for LSU and marked the beginning of a successful era for the program.
6. 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship: Clemson vs. Alabama
The 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship, held on January 9, 2017, was a thrilling contest between Clemson and Alabama. With 20.1 million viewers, this game was notable for its dramatic finish, as Clemson's Deshaun Watson threw a game-winning touchdown pass with one second left on the clock to secure a 35-31 victory. The game is remembered for its high stakes, intense competition, and Watson's clutch performance in the final moments.
7. 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship: Alabama vs. Georgia
The 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship, played on January 8, 2018, featured Alabama and Georgia. This game attracted 19.7 million viewers and is known for its dramatic overtime finish. Alabama's true freshman quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, led his team to a 26-23 victory with a game-winning touchdown pass in overtime. The game is celebrated for its high drama and the emergence of Tagovailoa as a star.
8. 2002 BCS National Championship: Miami vs. Ohio State
The 2002 BCS National Championship Game, held on January 3, 2003, was a memorable clash between Miami and Ohio State. With 19.1 million viewers, this game is famous for its dramatic overtime finish, where Ohio State defeated Miami 31-24. The game is remembered for its controversial officiating decisions and the resilience of the Buckeyes, who secured the title in a thrilling conclusion.
9. 1994 Rose Bowl: Penn State vs. Oregon
The 1994 Rose Bowl, played on January 1, 1995, featured a matchup between Penn State and Oregon. This game drew 18.5 million viewers and was notable for Penn State's dominant performance in a 38-20 victory. The game is remembered for Penn State's impressive offensive and defensive play, which secured their place in college football history.
10. 2012 BCS National Championship: Alabama vs. LSU
The 2012 BCS National Championship Game, held on January 9, 2012, saw Alabama take on LSU. The game, watched by 17.9 million viewers, was a defensive struggle, with Alabama emerging victorious 21-0. The game is known for its intense defensive battle and Alabama's ability to shut down LSU's offense. The victory was a significant achievement for Alabama and further cemented their status as a college football powerhouse.
Conclusion
The top 10 most watched college football games of all time on TV represent some of the most exciting and memorable moments in the sport's history. These games not only drew massive television audiences but also showcased the drama, intensity, and high stakes that make college football so captivating. From historic national championships to unforgettable finishes, these games continue to be celebrated by fans and serve as benchmarks for future college football contests.
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