College football is known for its thrilling game days, but some matchups have stretched the limits of excitement by lasting well beyond the typical regulation time. Since the NCAA implemented overtime rules in 1996, several college football games have gone down in history for their extraordinary lengths, testing the endurance of players, fans, and coaches alike.
One of the most notable games took place on October 23, 2021, where Illinois faced off against Penn State. This intense contest ended in a 20-18 victory for Illinois after nine overtimes, marking the first nine-overtime game in NCAA history. The Fighting Illini quarterback Brandon Peters achieved victory with a successful 2-point conversion pass to wide receiver Casey Washington after a 10-10 tie in regulation.
On November 29, 2024, Georgia and Georgia Tech clashed in a fierce rivalry game known as “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.” This memorable matchup concluded after eight overtimes, with Georgia edging out Georgia Tech 44-42. The game saw Georgia Tech jump ahead 17-0 in the first half, but Georgia managed to level the score before clinching the win with a rushing touchdown by Nate Frazier in the final overtime.
Another thrilling encounter took place on September 10, 2022, when Eastern Kentucky achieved a dramatic 59-57 victory over Bowling Green after seven overtimes. The Colonels tied the game at 38 by the end of regulation, successfully converting a 2-point attempt in overtime, which sealed their upset win.
The game featuring Texas A&M and LSU on November 24, 2018, set records with a staggering score of 74-72 after seven overtimes. This encounter not only demonstrated the resilience of the teams but also marked the highest-scoring game in FBS history.
Additionally, Western Michigan and Buffalo engaged in a seven-overtime spectacle on October 7, 2017, resulting in a 71-68 scoreline for Western Michigan. The game was notable for its back-and-forth nature, culminating in a 12-yard rushing touchdown by Jarvion Franklin.
In a historical twist, North Texas faced Florida International on October 7, 2006, in a game that went into seven overtimes, a significant feat for North Texas, which had not participated in overtime play since the adoption of the rules. Similarly, a thrilling matchup on November 1, 2003, saw Arkansas triumph over Kentucky 71-63 in a seven-overtime thriller lasting nearly five hours.
Lastly, Arkansas claimed victory against Ole Miss 58-56 in yet another seven-overtime game on November 3, 2001, showcasing the Razorbacks’ tenacity and skill in high-pressure situations.
While these games tested the limits of physical endurance and mental grit, they also fostered unforgettable moments that have become cherished memories for fans. Such extended encounters illustrate the spirit of college football, a sport where heart and determination can lead to historic outcomes.
In summary, college football’s longest games not only showcase remarkable athletic bouts, but they also encapsulate the essence of rivalry, determination, and the thrill of victory. These iconic clashes are a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that college football brings each fall.