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There is nothing quite like the college football bowl season, where sponsors dominate with quirky naming rights for over 40 different bowl games. Whether your team finishes 6-6 or 12-0, they are eligible for a postseason contest. While the biggest games are saved for the finale, the run-up of the bowl schedule paves an exciting journey. While every bowl game features a unique matchup, a select few games stand out as legendary. Below, we rank the top five greatest bowl games. And it just so happens that all but one is a national championship.
The final BCS National Championship game before the introduction of the College Football Playoff system did not disappoint. Florida State, led by Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston, mounted an incredible fourth-quarter comeback against Auburn. Down 21-3 in the first half, Winston and the Seminoles roared back to take the lead in the final minutes. Auburn briefly regained the lead after a Tre Mason touchdown with 1:19 remaining, but Winston drove Florida State down the field, capping it off with a game-winning touchdown pass to Kelvin Benjamin with just 13 seconds remaining. This finale sealed Florida State’s undefeated season and gave the BCS era a fitting send-off.
In one of the most exciting playoff games in the brief College Football Playoff history, Georgia and Oklahoma delivered an instant classic in the 2018 Rose Bowl. Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield led Oklahoma to a strong first-half performance, but Georgia stormed back in the second half behind a punishing run game led by Nick Chubb and Sony Michel. The game went back and forth in overtime, with both teams refusing to back down. Ultimately, it was Michel’s 27-yard touchdown run in double overtime that secured Georgia’s victory and sent them to the national title game. This game was an incredible showcase of offensive firepower and grit from both teams.
The 2018 National Championship Game between Alabama and Georgia was not only a clash of two SEC powerhouses but also one of the most dramatic title games in college football history. Georgia took a 13-0 lead into halftime, and Alabama coach Nick Saban made the bold decision to bench starting quarterback Jalen Hurts in favor of freshman Tua Tagovailoa. The gamble paid off, as Tua led Alabama back to tie the game and force overtime. In the extra period, after Georgia kicked a field goal, Tua stunned the world with a 41-yard touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith on 2nd-and-26, giving Alabama the national title in thrilling fashion.
The 2003 Fiesta Bowl was a historic clash between the undefeated Miami Hurricanes and underdog Ohio State Buckeyes, with the BCS National Championship on the line. Miami entered the game riding a 34-game winning streak and boasted one of the most talented rosters in college football history. However, Ohio State’s defense, led by safety Mike Doss and linebacker A.J. Hawk, gave the Hurricanes fits all night. The game came down to a controversial pass interference call in overtime, which gave Ohio State new life. The Buckeyes took full advantage and scored in double overtime to pull off a stunning upset. This game is remembered not just for the controversy but for its fierce competition and dramatic finish.
Widely regarded as the greatest college football game ever played, the 2006 Rose Bowl between Texas and USC was a battle for the ages. USC, riding a 34-game winning streak and led by Heisman Trophy winners Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush, seemed poised to capture its third straight national title. But Texas quarterback Vince Young had other ideas. In a game filled with big plays, momentum swings and star power, Young delivered one of the most iconic performances in college football history. With just 19 seconds remaining, Young scrambled for a game-winning eight-yard touchdown on 4th-and-5, capping off a remarkable 467-yard performance. This game is remembered for its drama, its stakes and Vince Young’s heroic effort that cemented his place in college football lore.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.