5 Biggest Upsets in College Football Playoff History – ELITETRACK

College football thrives on the unexpected, where underdogs rise to the occasion, leaving fans speechless. The College Football Playoff has delivered some of the sport’s most jaw-dropping moments, turning predictions on their heads and rewriting history.

These aren’t just games—they’re stories of grit, determination, and the thrill of defying odds. Whether it’s a last-second touchdown or a dominant performance no one saw coming, these upsets remind us why we love the game.

2014: Ohio State Shocks Alabama in the Sugar Bowl

The 2014 Sugar Bowl remains one of the most unforgettable moments in College Football Playoff history. Ohio State entered the semifinal as the No. 4 seed, facing the heavily favored No. 1 Alabama.

The odds seemed stacked against the Buckeyes, who were starting third-string quarterback Cardale Jones after injuries to Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett. Yet, what unfolded was a masterclass in resilience and determination.

Ohio State’s 42-35 victory wasn’t just a win but a statement. Their aggressive game plan, fueled by Ezekiel Elliott’s 85-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, silenced critics and showcased their depth and versatility.

Alabama, a perennial powerhouse, was stunned as Ohio State’s defense held strong, and their offense outpaced the Crimson Tide’s typically dominant performance.

This game wasn’t just a thrilling upset, it changed the narrative of the College football playoffs. It proved that seeding and odds don’t guarantee success and that any team in the playoff has the potential to level the playing field.

Ohio State’s triumph paved the way for their eventual national championship win, making it a defining moment in college football history. It’s a reminder that the impossible is always within reach in this sport.

2007: The night of the most epic Backyard Brawl

The 2007 “Backyard Brawl” between Pitt and West Virginia is also one of the most shocking upsets in college football history. Pitt, a 28.5-point underdog with a struggling 4-7 record, defeated No. 2-ranked West Virginia 13-9, dashing their championship hopes.

Pitt’s defense executed a near-perfect performance, limiting WVU’s high-powered offense to just 183 yards. Freshman LeSean McCoy powered Pitt’s offense with 148 rushing yards, while WVU’s mistakes, including missed field goals and turnovers, sealed their fate.

For Pitt, it was a season-saving victory that revitalized their program, while for West Virginia, it was a devastating loss that altered their trajectory.

1996: Memphis Upsets Tennessee, and Peyton Manning

Next on the list is the 1996 Memphis upset over Tennessee. Tennessee, led by Peyton Manning, entered the game as heavy favorites against a struggling Memphis team. Despite Memphis producing season-lows in offensive categories—just 153 total yards, 9 first downs, and under 23 minutes of possession—they managed to pull off a 21-17 victory.

Key factors included a kickoff return touchdown, a near pick-six, and Tennessee’s failure to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Poor rushing performance and conservative play-calling also hurt Tennessee. Ultimately, Memphis combined defensive tenacity and timely plays to stun the Vols, leaving fans and analysts puzzled.

2000: Central Michigan Defies 34.5-Point Odds to Upset Western Michigan

Entering the game as a 34.5-point underdog, Central Michigan was expected to be little more than a footnote in Western Michigan’s dominant season. Yet, against all odds, the Chippewas stunned the Broncos with a 21-17 victory that defied predictions and left fans in disbelief.

Western Michigan, a powerhouse in the MAC then, struggled to find its rhythm as Central Michigan’s defense stepped up, disrupting the Broncos’ offense and forcing critical turnovers. Meanwhile, the Chippewas capitalized on their opportunities, executing a balanced game plan with determination and grit.

This upset wasn’t just about the score—it showcased the unpredictability of college football. Central Michigan’s victory highlighted the spirit of competition, proving that even the longest odds can be overcome with heart, resilience, and magic.

2017: Georgia Ends Oklahoma’s Dream in the Rose Bowl

The 2017 Rose Bowl was a college football classic, where Georgia shattered Oklahoma’s championship hopes in a thrilling double-overtime battle.

Oklahoma boasted a high-powered offense led by Heisman winner Baker Mayfield and seemed poised to continue their dominant run. However, Georgia’s grit and resilience turned the tide in their favor, securing a 54-48 victory that sent them to the National Championship game.

Georgia relied heavily on its explosive rushing duo, Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, who combined for over 300 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Their relentless ground attack wore down Oklahoma’s defense, while Georgia’s defense made crucial stops in key moments, including blocking a field goal in overtime.

This game showcased everything fans love about college football—unpredictability, heart-stopping moments, and the triumph of sheer willpower. Georgia’s win ended Oklahoma’s dream run and became one of the most unforgettable moments in Rose Bowl history.

Final Words

Upsets are what make college football unforgettable. These shocking victories remind us that anything is possible when heart and determination take center stage. As fans, we cherish these moments because they embody the unpredictable magic that captivates the game. The next big upset is always just around the corner.