Historic Highlights from College Football Championship Records
College football has a rich history filled with memorable national championship moments. The first official national championship game for the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) took place on January 4, 1999. In this matchup, Tennessee defeated Florida State in the Fiesta Bowl, claiming the title for the 1998 season. Although various games prior to this event featured the top-ranked teams, this game marked the beginning of a new era: the BCS era.
Understanding College Football Championship Records
The nature of college football means that national championship games are not held in the same calendar year as the associated college football season. For example, the upcoming College Football Playoff National Championship game in 2026 will feature Indiana versus Miami, deciding the champion for the 2025 season. Below, we explore historic highlights from college football championship records, which showcase the achievements of various teams and players.
Records and Statistics
- Most National Championship Game Wins: Alabama, 6 titles
- Most National Championship Game Appearances: Alabama, 9 appearances
- Most Points Scored in a National Championship Game: Georgia, 65 points (2023)
- Largest Margin of Victory: Georgia, 58 points (65-7 over TCU in 2023)
- Fewest Points Allowed in a National Championship Game: Alabama, 0 points (2012)
Notable Performances
- Most Combined Points: 85 points (Clemson 45, Alabama 40 in 2016)
- Most Total Yards in a Game: LSU, 628 yards (2020)
- Most Rushing Yards: Michigan, 303 yards (2024)
- Most Passing Yards: Alabama, 464 yards (2021)
- Most Sacks: Florida State, 7 sacks (2000)
- Most Interceptions: Alabama, 4 interceptions (2010)
Record-Setting Players
| Category | Player | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | Mac Jones | 464 yards (2021) |
| Passing Touchdowns | Matt Leinart, Joe Burrow, Mac Jones | 5 touchdowns (2005, 2020, 2021) |
| Rushing Yards | Ezekiel Elliott | 246 yards (2015) |
| Rushing Touchdowns | Ezekiel Elliott | 4 touchdowns (2015) |
| Receptions | DeVonta Smith | 12 receptions (2021) |
| Receiving Yards | Ja’Marr Chase | 221 yards (2020) |
| Field Goals Made | Jeremy Shelley | 5 field goals (2012) |
These records highlight the remarkable performances and achievements in college football history. Whether for teams or individuals, the competition continues to thrill and captivate fans nationwide. As the sport evolves, new records will undoubtedly emerge, adding to its storied legacy.
