1. Rose Bowl- University of Southern California V. Penn State University 52-49

After the Penn State Nittany Lions were knocked out of the College Football Playoffs, they were picked to play in the Rose Bowl against University of Southern California (USC). After USC got off to a 13-0 start, and had two interceptions on Penn State’s quarterback Trace McSorley first two passing attempts in the first quarter, the USC Trojans were off to a hot start. After Penn State was shut out in the first quarter, the team closed their deficit to six points going into halftime. Penn State’s offense exploded in the second half, scoring 21 points and giving them a 14 point lead going into the fourth quarter. Although Penn State was dominant through the second and third quarter USC marched down the field and tied the game with 1:20 remaining in the fourth quarter. Penn State offense was given the opportunity to march down the field and score but the Trojans would get their third interception of the game putting them in field goal range. After the interception USC lined up to attempt a game winning 43 yard field goal with five seconds remaining. The Trojans put down a perfect snap and hold and USC won the game as time expired off their kickers 43 yard field goal.  

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2. Belk Bowl- Virginia Tech V. Arkansas 35-24

The Belk Bowl was an unusual game. After Arkansas went into halftime shutting out VT and having a 24-0 lead there was no doubt Arkansas would be the clear winner. As the Hokies ran out of the tunnel in the second half they were filled with anger. The Hokies would start the second half with a fumble recovery on the Arkansas 30. Virginia Tech’s offense changed their plan of attack and marched down the field and scored on a three play drive. The Arkansas offense had four turnovers in the second half and allowed VT to come back from the 24 point deficit and scored 35 points in the second half giving them the victory.      

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3. Capital One Orange Bowl- Michigan V. Florida State 33-32

Michigan was another team that many people thought should’ve been in the College Football Playoffs. Although they were known as one of the best teams in the nation, they were losing 20-6 going into halftime against the Florida State Seminoles. The Seminoles demolished Michigan’s high powered defense throwing a 92 yard touchdown and a 6 play drive going 75 yards to the end zone. The Michigan Wolverines defense showed their true potential in the second half with an interception return for a touchdown late in the third quarter. The Florida State offense returned to the field after the interception and marched down the field for another 75 yard touchdown with 11:38 remaining in the game and a 12 point lead. Michigan responded to the Florida State touchdown with back to back scores giving them a 3 point lead with 1:57 remaining. The Seminoles were ready to put together a two minute drive down the field. As the Gators got into Michigan territory they threw a 12 yard touchdown with 36 seconds remaining. As Florida State lined up for their extra point putting the Michigan offense in a most score situation, the Michigan field goal team would block the extra point and return it for a score giving the Seminoles a one point lead. Michigan’s offense was given the ball with 36 seconds left to score a field goal. The Wolverines began their drive at the 25 and would stay there gaining no yards and throwing an interception securing the win for Florida State.

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