Teams secure dramatic wins advancing in playoffs, thrilling sports enthusiasts nationwide as the College Football Playoff first round produced unforgettable drama, historic comebacks, and gritty upsets in the expanded 12-team format.
No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide delivered the weekend’s signature moment, rallying from a 17-0 deficit to stun No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners 34-24 on the road in Norman—the largest comeback in CFP history. Freshman standout Lotzeir Brooks erupted for two touchdowns, while a blocked punt and Zabien Brown’s pick-six ignited a 27-point unanswered surge, propelling Alabama to the Rose Bowl against No. 1 Indiana.
No. 10 Miami Hurricanes shocked No. 7 Texas A&M Aggies 10-3 in a defensive masterpiece at Kyle Field, the lowest-scoring CFP game ever. Miami’s relentless defense forced turnovers and sealed victory with a late end-zone interception, earning a Cotton Bowl showdown with No. 2 Ohio State.
No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels overwhelmed No. 11 Tulane Green Wave 41-10, exploding offensively early and cruising to avenge regular-season doubts. The Rebels advance to the Sugar Bowl against No. 3 Georgia.
No. 5 Oregon Ducks dominated No. 12 James Madison Dukes 51-34 in a high-octane shootout, unleashing big plays throughout to secure the Orange Bowl versus No. 4 Texas Tech.
These captivating on-campus battles—featuring road triumphs, blowouts, and resilience—highlighted the expanded playoff’s excitement, captivating audiences and priming New Year’s quarterfinals for even greater intensity as elite teams chase the national title.
