In a new story from The Athletic, writers ranked the 25 best college football games of the 2000s. Among them was the 2017 Rose Bowl College Football Playoff Semifinal between the Georgia Bulldogs and Oklahoma Sooners.
Let’s take a look back at this star-studded matchup, which produced NFL stars and all-time moments and set expectations for CFP games for years to come.
2017 Rose Bowl Named One of ‘Top College Football Games of 2000s’
The 2017 Rose Bowl has been ranked as one of the top five games of the 2000s, according to The Athletic, but the game makes a case as one of the greatest college football games ever played. It had everything fans wanted in a game—big plays, comebacks, and a thrilling finish.
The Georgia vs. Oklahoma 2017-2018 Rose Bowl one of the greatest games I’ve ever seen.pic.twitter.com/AqXdQj1Bda
— Football’s Greatest Moments (@FBGreatMoments) July 4, 2024
Oklahoma, led by Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield, came out firing. The Sooners jumped to a 31-14 lead, looking unstoppable. But Georgia, known for its tough SEC defense, refused to quit. Just before halftime, the Bulldogs kicked a field goal to stay within striking distance.
However, Georgia came out hot in the second half, scoring 21 straight points to take a 38-31 lead. Mayfield answered with a clutch drive, tying the game late. Then, Oklahoma’s defense scored on a fumble return, putting the Sooners back ahead.
But Georgia wasn’t done. With time running out, the Bulldogs tied the game again, sending it to overtime.
Both teams kicked field goals in the first overtime. Then, in the second overtime, Georgia’s defense blocked Oklahoma’s field goal attempt.
On the next play, Georgia running back Sony Michel took a direct snap and sprinted 27 yards for the game-winning touchdown. The Bulldogs won 54-48 in double overtime, capping off an unforgettable game.
Why This Game Matters For College Football
The 2017 Rose Bowl had everything that makes football great. Oklahoma’s Heisman-winning quarterback, Baker Mayfield, faced Georgia’s tough SEC defense. Future NFL stars Sony Michel, Nick Chubb, and Roquan Smith all made big plays that night.
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Georgia fell behind by 17 points but never gave up. They fought back to take the lead, showing why SEC teams are so feared. Oklahoma answered with clutch plays of its own to force overtime.
The game ended in the most exciting way possible: Sony Michel broke free for a 27-yard touchdown run in double overtime to win it for Georgia and send them to the national championship game.
This was the first time Georgia and Oklahoma had ever played each other. The game had so many great moments that people still talk about it today. With its star players, big comeback, and dramatic finish, the 2017 Rose Bowl became one of the best college football games ever played.
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