College football is synonymous with thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments, but some games have gone above and beyond, stretching well into the night and showcasing relentless determination from the teams involved. Here’s a summary of the longest college football games since the NCAA introduced overtime in 1996.
On October 23, 2021, Illinois faced Penn State in a nail-biting contest that resulted in the first nine-overtime game in NCAA history. The teams ended regulation tied at 10-10, but Illinois clinched the victory with a two-point conversion from quarterback Brandon Peters to wide receiver Casey Washington, securing a 20-18 win.
In another memorable clash on November 29, 2024, Georgia triumphed over Georgia Tech in an eight-overtime thriller that ended 44-42. Despite trailing 17-0 at halftime, Georgia mounted a remarkable comeback, forcing overtime and ultimately finishing the game with a rushing score from Nate Frazier.
The excitement continued on September 10, 2022, as Eastern Kentucky took on Bowling Green. After a wild seven-overtime battle, Eastern Kentucky emerged victorious with a 59-57 score, thanks to a decisive two-point conversion by Parker McKinney.
On November 24, 2018, the record-breaking contest between Texas A&M and LSU ended with A&M claiming a 74-72 victory after seven overtime periods, marking it as one of the highest-scoring games in FBS history.
Two other seven-overtime clashes worth mentioning include Western Michigan’s 71-68 win over Buffalo on October 7, 2017, and North Texas’s 25-22 victory against Florida International on October 7, 2006. Both games were marked by thrilling moments and close calls that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Finally, the SEC rivalry produced dramatic matchups, including Arkansas’s victories against Kentucky (71-63 in seven overtimes) on November 1, 2003, and Ole Miss (58-56 in seven overtimes) on November 3, 2001. Both games featured intense competition, showcasing the spirit of college football.
These extended matchups highlight not only the physical endurance of the players but also the passion for the game that fuels college football, allowing fans to reminisce about legendary moments that defy the boundaries of time.
Overall, while some might view these long games as exhausting, they also serve as a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of college football, bringing communities together to celebrate their teams’ grit and resilience.