Top 10 Most Watched NCAA Football Games

NCAA football has a storied history filled with memorable games that have captivated audiences across the nation. Here, we explore the top 10 most-watched NCAA football games, highlighting what made each contest stand out and why they have garnered such a massive viewership.

1. 2006 Rose Bowl: Texas vs. USC The 2006 Rose Bowl is perhaps the most iconic NCAA football game in recent history. Featuring the Texas Longhorns and the USC Trojans, this game is remembered for its dramatic finish and high stakes. The game had an average viewership of over 35 million people. Texas, led by quarterback Vince Young, orchestrated a memorable comeback in the final minutes to secure a 41-38 victory. This game was particularly notable for the clash between two Heisman Trophy winners, Reggie Bush and Vince Young, and its impact on college football lore.

2. 2013 BCS National Championship: Alabama vs. Notre Dame The 2013 BCS National Championship game saw the Alabama Crimson Tide face off against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Alabama's dominant 42-14 victory was a spectacle of football prowess that drew in an average viewership of approximately 25 million. The game showcased Alabama’s incredible talent and coaching under Nick Saban, cementing their reputation as one of the most powerful teams in college football.

3. 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship: Alabama vs. Georgia The 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship featured a thrilling matchup between Alabama and Georgia. The game, which ended in a 26-23 overtime victory for Alabama, attracted a viewership of about 24 million. This game was particularly memorable for its dramatic overtime period, where Alabama’s backup quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, made a name for himself with a game-winning touchdown pass.

4. 2009 BCS National Championship: Florida vs. Oklahoma The 2009 BCS National Championship game between Florida and Oklahoma drew an average viewership of 23 million. The Florida Gators, led by Tim Tebow, defeated the Oklahoma Sooners 24-14. Tebow’s performance and the overall high quality of play made this game a notable event in college football history, showcasing the talent and intensity of both teams.

5. 2011 College Football Playoff National Championship: Auburn vs. Oregon The 2011 College Football Playoff National Championship game between Auburn and Oregon was watched by around 22 million viewers. Auburn's dramatic 22-19 win, thanks to a last-second field goal by Wes Byrum, solidified its place in college football history. The game was a testament to Auburn's resilience and the competitive nature of the sport.

6. 2002 Fiesta Bowl: Ohio State vs. Miami The 2002 Fiesta Bowl, featuring Ohio State and Miami, drew an impressive viewership of 21 million. Ohio State’s 31-24 double-overtime victory was a significant upset and remains one of the most exciting games in NCAA football history. The game was particularly notable for its intense finish and the performance of Ohio State's defense.

7. 2014 College Football Playoff National Championship: Ohio State vs. Oregon The 2014 College Football Playoff National Championship game, where Ohio State faced Oregon, attracted around 20 million viewers. Ohio State’s 42-20 victory was a showcase of their offensive and defensive capabilities, highlighting the team's impressive journey through the playoff.

8. 2007 BCS National Championship: Florida vs. Ohio State The 2007 BCS National Championship game between Florida and Ohio State was watched by approximately 19 million people. Florida’s dominant 41-14 victory demonstrated the Gators' superiority and was a key moment in the career of head coach Urban Meyer.

9. 2010 BCS National Championship: Alabama vs. Texas The 2010 BCS National Championship game featured Alabama and Texas, attracting a viewership of about 18 million. Alabama’s 37-21 win was a showcase of their defensive and offensive prowess, securing their place as one of the top teams in college football.

10. 1994 Orange Bowl: Nebraska vs. Miami The 1994 Orange Bowl, with Nebraska facing Miami, was watched by approximately 17 million people. Nebraska’s 24-17 victory was a key moment in college football history, marking their dominance in the sport during the early 1990s.

These games represent some of the most memorable and watched moments in NCAA football history, each marked by exceptional performances, dramatic finishes, and significant impacts on the sport.