Ranking the 25 Best College Football Games of the 2000s: Where Do Texas vs. USC and the Kick Six Rank…..

• Ranking the 25 Best College Football Games of the 2000s: Where Do Texas vs. USC and the Kick Six Rank?

The 2000s were a golden era for college football, delivering unforgettable moments that have since become part of the sport’s rich tapestry. Among the most iconic games were the 2006 Rose Bowl between Texas and USC, and the 2013 Iron Bowl featuring Auburn’s “Kick Six” against Alabama. But where do these legendary matchups stand among the top 25 college football games of the decade?

🏆 1. Texas vs. USC – 2006 Rose Bowl (BCS National Championship)

Often dubbed the “Game of the Century,” this clash on January 4, 2006, showcased two unbeaten teams: the Texas Longhorns and the USC Trojans. With stars like Vince Young, Matt Leinart, and Reggie Bush, the game lived up to its billing. Texas secured a 41–38 victory, with Young’s 8-yard touchdown run on fourth down in the final seconds clinching the national title for the Longhorns. Young’s performance—throwing for 267 yards, rushing for 200, and accounting for three touchdowns—was hailed as one of the greatest in college football history. ([Wikipedia][1], [SI][2], [SI][3])

⚡ 2. Auburn vs. Alabama – 2013 Iron Bowl (“Kick Six”)

On November 30, 2013, the Iron Bowl delivered one of the most dramatic finishes in sports history. With the game tied at 28 and one second remaining, Alabama attempted a 57-yard field goal. Auburn’s Chris Davis caught the miss in the end zone and returned it 109 yards for a touchdown, propelling the Tigers to a 34–28 victory. This play, known as the “Kick Six,” was later named the best play and best game of the year at the 2014 ESPY Awards. ([NFL.com][4], [Wikipedia][5])

📊 Where Do They Stand?

While specific rankings can vary, both games are frequently cited among the top college football games of the 2000s. For instance, Sports Illustrated’s 2009 list of the top 10 college football games of the decade placed the Texas vs. USC game at the top, highlighting its high stakes and dramatic conclusion. Similarly, the “Kick Six” is often featured in discussions of the most memorable plays and games of the era. ([SI][2], [Wikipedia][5])

🏅 Conclusion

Both the 2006 Rose Bowl and the 2013 Iron Bowl stand as monumental moments in college football history. Their thrilling narratives, unforgettable plays, and lasting impacts on the sport ensure they remain etched in the memories of fans and analysts alike. While rankings may differ, these games undoubtedly belong to the pantheon of college football’s greatest.