College sports have always been a breeding ground for unforgettable moments, and the past decade has delivered its fair share of iconic events that fans will remember for years to come. From dramatic upsets to record-breaking performances, the world of college athletics has been nothing short of exhilarating. Here’s a look back at some of the most memorable college sports moments of the past decade.

1. The 2016 Clemson vs. Alabama National Championship Game

One of the most thrilling college football games in recent history was the 2016 National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide. The game, played on January 11, 2016, in Glendale, Arizona, featured a dramatic finish that left fans on the edge of their seats. With just one second left on the clock, Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to Hunter Renfrow, securing a 35-31 victory for the Tigers. This win not only gave Clemson its first national championship in 35 years but also cemented Watson’s status as one of college football’s greatest quarterbacks.

2. UMBC’s Historic Upset Over Virginia in the 2018 NCAA Tournament

The 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament saw a historic upset when the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) Retrievers defeated the top-seeded Virginia Cavaliers in the first round. The Retrievers, who were 20-point underdogs, won 74-54, marking the first time a No. 16 seed had ever beaten a No. 1 seed in the tournament’s history. The victory sent shockwaves through the basketball world and became a defining moment of March Madness, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of college basketball.

3. UConn Women’s Basketball Team’s Record 111-Game Winning Streak

The UConn Huskies women’s basketball team dominated the sport throughout the 2010s, and their remarkable 111-game winning streak from November 2014 to April 2017 stands out as one of the most impressive achievements in college sports history. Under the leadership of coach Geno Auriemma, the Huskies showcased their dominance, culminating in a 60-54 victory over Syracuse in the 2016 National Championship Game. This streak not only highlighted UConn’s superiority but also solidified the team’s legacy as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.

4. The 2021 Gonzaga vs. UCLA Final Four Thriller

The 2021 NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four featured one of the most unforgettable games of the decade between Gonzaga and UCLA. In a contest that showcased the very best of college basketball, Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer to secure a 93-90 overtime victory. Suggs’ shot, which came from beyond half-court, propelled Gonzaga into the national championship game and is widely regarded as one of the greatest plays in the history of the NCAA Tournament.

5. Oregon’s Historic 2014 College Football Playoff Championship

The introduction of the College Football Playoff (CFP) in the 2014 season brought a new level of excitement to the sport. The inaugural CFP National Championship Game on January 12, 2015, featured the Oregon Ducks and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State, led by quarterback Cardale Jones, emerged victorious with a 42-20 win, marking the Buckeyes’ first national title since 2002. The game was significant not only for its high level of competition but also for ushering in a new era of college football postseason play.

6. Texas A&M’s Stunning Comeback Against LSU in 2018

The 2018 college football season delivered an epic moment during the Thanksgiving weekend, as the Texas A&M Aggies faced off against the LSU Tigers in a game that extended into seven overtimes. The Aggies pulled off a stunning comeback to win 74-72, setting a new record for the longest game in FBS history. The game was a testament to the resilience and endurance of both teams, and it provided fans with one of the most thrilling spectacles in college football.

7. Florida State’s 2013 National Championship Under Jameis Winston

In 2013, Florida State’s football program reached new heights under the leadership of quarterback Jameis Winston. The Seminoles capped off a perfect 14-0 season by defeating the Auburn Tigers 34-31 in the BCS National Championship Game. Winston, who won the Heisman Trophy that season, led the Seminoles with a remarkable performance, including a game-winning touchdown pass to Kelvin Benjamin. This victory marked Florida State’s first national championship since 1999 and solidified Winston’s place in college football lore.

8. North Carolina’s 2017 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship

The 2017 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship game featured a rematch of the 2016 title game, with North Carolina facing off against Gonzaga. In a closely contested game, the Tar Heels emerged victorious with a 71-65 win. A pivotal moment came when North Carolina’s Joel Berry II was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player, leading his team to their sixth national championship. This win was a redemption for North Carolina after their loss the previous year and a testament to their resilience and talent.

Conclusion

The past decade has been filled with moments of triumph, heartbreak, and pure exhilaration in college sports. From dramatic finishes to historic upsets, these events have captured the hearts of fans and created lasting memories. As we look forward to the future, it’s clear that college sports will continue to deliver unforgettable moments that define the spirit and excitement of the game.