Explore the top five most controversial seasons in college football history, where debates over national champions and game outcomes have left lasting impacts on the sport.
5. The Probation Champion (1957): Auburn’s undefeated 10-0 season was overshadowed by NCAA probation due to recruiting violations. Despite their ineligibility, the AP poll named them national champions, while the UPI coaches’ poll favored Ohio State.
4. The Bowl Game That Changed Nothing (1947): Notre Dame, Michigan, and Penn State all finished the regular season unbeaten. The AP awarded Notre Dame the title before bowl games, but after Michigan’s dominant Rose Bowl win, a postseason poll favored Michigan. Surprisingly, the AP continued pre-bowl rankings until 1968.
3. When Being Undefeated Wasn’t Enough (1954): Ohio State and UCLA both had perfect seasons, yet Ohio State claimed the AP title. Oklahoma also went undefeated but was overlooked. A no-repeat rule prevented a decisive Rose Bowl matchup between Ohio State and UCLA, leading to shared and disputed titles.
2. The President Picks a Champion (1969): After top-ranked teams stumbled, President Richard Nixon declared the winner of the Texas vs. Arkansas game as national champions, presenting a plaque to Texas. This bypassed undefeated Penn State, leading to lasting debates and a memorable quote from Penn State’s coach, Joe Paterno.
1. The Tie That Split the Nation (1966): Top-ranked Notre Dame and Michigan State played to a 10-10 tie. Notre Dame’s coach was criticized for playing conservatively to preserve the tie, which secured their AP national title. Meanwhile, undefeated Alabama was left out of the championship conversation, fueling debates over bias and fairness.
These seasons highlight the complexities and controversies in college football history, showcasing the passion and debates that have shaped the sport.
00:00 Intro
00:35 The Probation Champion (1957)
01:46 The Bowl Game That Changed Nothing (1947)
03:04 When Being Undefeated Wasn’t Enough (1954)
04:55 The President Picks a Champion (1969)
07:20 The Tie That Split the Nation (1966)
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