Top 5 College Football Playoff Round 1 Games

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Post on Dec 21, 2024

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Top 5 Most Memorable College Football Playoff Round 1 Games

The College Football Playoff (CFP) has delivered some incredible moments since its inception. While the Championship game often steals the headlines, the Round 1 matchups are frequently just as thrilling, filled with upsets and unforgettable plays. Narrowing it down to just five "best" games is subjective, but based on impact, excitement, and overall drama, these five stand out as truly memorable CFP Round 1 encounters.

5. 2018: #4 Alabama vs. #5 Oklahoma (Orange Bowl)

This game delivered on its hype, showcasing a high-octane offensive battle between two powerhouse programs. Oklahoma, led by quarterback Kyler Murray, kept pace with Alabama’s formidable offense, trading blows throughout the game. The game featured several lead changes and dramatic moments, culminating in a thrilling Alabama victory. While ultimately a Crimson Tide win, the game's back-and-forth nature and the offensive firepower on display made it a classic CFP Round 1 matchup. High scoring and explosive plays defined this contest.

4. 2017: #1 Clemson vs. #4 Alabama (Sugar Bowl)

A rematch of the previous year's National Championship game, this clash lived up to its billing as a classic. Clemson, seeking revenge, delivered a dominant performance against a strong Alabama team. The Tigers' defense stifled Alabama's usually potent offense, and quarterback Deshaun Watson led a masterful offensive display. Defensive prowess and strategic gameplay made this a memorable game, showcasing the tactical depth of top-tier college football. This game solidified Clemson's place amongst the elite.

3. 2019: #6 Oklahoma vs. #3 Baylor (Sugar Bowl)

This game was a stunning upset, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the CFP. Underrated Baylor, boasting a strong running game and a solid defense, shocked the college football world by defeating a high-powered Oklahoma team. The victory was a testament to Baylor's well-coached team and their ability to execute their game plan flawlessly. This win proved that underdogs can thrive under pressure, adding to the CFP's reputation for unpredictable excitement.

2. 2016: #2 Clemson vs. #3 Ohio State (Fiesta Bowl)

This game stands out for its dramatic comeback. Ohio State, facing a significant deficit, mounted a furious rally in the second half, fueled by their strong running game and opportunistic defense. The game went down to the wire, with Ohio State ultimately prevailing in a nail-biting finish. The dramatic comeback and tense atmosphere made this one of the most exciting CFP Round 1 games in history. It showcased the resilience and determination that define championship-caliber teams.

1. 2022: #4 TCU vs. #2 Michigan (Fiesta Bowl)

This game is arguably the most surprising and memorable of the bunch. TCU, a team that many considered an underdog despite their undefeated regular season, went head-to-head against a powerful Michigan team and delivered a truly stunning upset. The Horned Frogs’ high-powered offense and surprisingly resilient defense showcased their ability to compete with and ultimately defeat one of the nation's best teams. The unexpected result and exceptional performance by TCU cemented this game as the ultimate CFP Round 1 classic.

These five games represent a small sample of the incredible action the College Football Playoff has provided. Each game showcased different aspects of the sport: high-octane offenses, dominant defenses, dramatic comebacks, and surprising upsets. The CFP continues to deliver unforgettable moments, and future years undoubtedly hold more thrilling Round 1 matchups.