It was an unprecedented Bowl Season in college football, marked by the excitement of the 12-team College Football Playoff. For the first time in the sport’s history, first-round playoff games were held on campus, creating an electric atmosphere from South Bend to Austin. While the competitiveness of some games left much to be desired, the overall experience captivated fans across the nation.
Winners and losers of Bowl Season
As the dust settles on this thrilling postseason, it’s time to take a closer look at the biggest winners and losers from Bowl Season. With a few games still on the horizon, the results so far reveal a mix of triumphs and disappointments.
Ohio State: A Redemption Story
The Buckeyes have turned their season around in spectacular fashion. After suffering a heartbreaking 13-10 loss to Michigan in the regular-season finale, Ohio State bounced back to win their first two playoff games in dominating fashion. They defeated No. 9 Tennessee and No. 1 Oregon, showcasing the talent of freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith, who amassed 290 yards and four touchdowns. The Buckeyes’ defense was equally impressive, limiting their opponents to an average of just 16 points per game. As they prepare for the Cotton Bowl against Texas, Ohio State has firmly established itself as a team to beat under coach Ryan Day.
Notre Dame’s Gritty Performance
The Fighting Irish made headlines by advancing to the College Football Playoff semifinal with a hard-fought 23-10 victory over Georgia in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. Notre Dame’s defense shone, forcing two turnovers and scoring 16 points off special teams. Quarterback Riley Leonard orchestrated a crucial fourth-quarter drive, leading to a significant win for Marcus Freeman’s squad. With an average of just 287 total yards allowed per game in their playoff victories, the Irish are now eyeing their first national championship since 1988.
Texas and Quinn Ewers Shine
In a thrilling overtime showdown, Texas faced a daunting fourth-and-13 against Arizona State, trailing 31-24. Enter Quinn Ewers, who delivered a game-saving 28-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Golden, securing a 39-31 victory. Ewers, who has been the subject of transfer rumors, threw for 322 yards and three touchdowns, proving his mettle on the big stage. With a chance to face Ohio State, where he spent his freshman year, Ewers is poised to lead the Longhorns in pursuit of their first national championship since 2005.
Georgia’s Disappointment
Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, the SEC champions fell victim to a quarterfinal round where teams with first-round byes went 0-4. Georgia struggled against Notre Dame, with two first-half turnovers and a dismal 2 of 12 on third-down conversions. Despite a tough schedule, Kirby Smart’s team failed to make the crucial plays when it mattered most, leaving fans disappointed.
Big Ten Dominance
The Big Ten emerged as a powerhouse during Bowl Season, boasting an impressive 8-5 record, including a head-to-head victory for Ohio State against Oregon. The conference showcased its strength with notable wins, such as Michigan’s triumph over No. 11 Alabama and No. 20 Illinois’s victory against No. 15 South Carolina. With two teams in the semifinals, the Big Ten has established itself as a force to be reckoned with.
Losers: Alabama and South Carolina
Alabama and South Carolina faced harsh criticism after their bowl performances. Alabama’s three first-half turnovers and lackluster rushing game led to a loss against Michigan, capping a disappointing four-loss season for first-year coach Kalen DeBoer. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s defeat snapped a six-game winning streak, leaving fans frustrated and questioning the team’s direction.
Cam Skattebo’s Memorable Performance
Despite a loss, Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo delivered a performance to remember against Texas. Skattebo’s all-around effort included 30 carries for 143 yards and two touchdowns, along with nine catches for 99 yards. His resilience was on full display as he returned to the field after being sick on the sidelines. Skattebo’s determination and skill made him a standout player, even in defeat.
ACC’s Struggles
The ACC faced a challenging Bowl Season, finishing with a dismal 2-10 record, the worst among the Power 4 conferences. Notably, No. 11 SMU suffered a significant loss to Penn State, while Clemson, the ACC champion, fell to Texas. The conference’s struggles raise questions about its competitiveness in the new 12-team playoff era.
Florida’s Turnaround
Florida’s season took a remarkable turn under coach Billy Napier. After starting with double-digit losses, the Gators rallied to secure a decisive 33-8 victory over Tulane in the Union Homes Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl. With quarterback DJ Lagway leading the charge, Florida is poised to make a splash in the upcoming season, garnering attention in early preseason rankings.
Competitive Games Outside the CFP
While the College Football Playoff had its share of blowouts, the remaining bowl games delivered excitement with 18 contests decided by seven points or less. The drama unfolded in various matchups, showcasing the unpredictability and thrill of college football.
Pop-Tarts and Cheez-Its: A Fun Branding Success
Amidst the football action, Pop-Tarts and Cheez-Its have captured attention with their creative branding efforts. The Pop-Tarts Bowl drew 6.79 million viewers, highlighting the appeal of these snack foods. From sideline sprinkles to toaster trophies, the playful marketing has added an extra layer of enjoyment to Bowl Season.
In this exhilarating Bowl Season, the highs and lows of college football have left fans buzzing with excitement. With teams showcasing their skills and the thrill of competition on full display, it’s clear that college football remains a beloved and dynamic sport.
