In the world of college football, dominance and tradition often rule the headlines—but sometimes, underdogs steal the spotlight. Upsets are the heartbeat of college football’s chaotic charm. They ignite fan passion, change program trajectories, and leave an unforgettable mark in sports history. Whether it’s a small-school squad stunning a national powerhouse or an unranked team taking down a top-5 juggernaut, these moments define the unpredictable nature of the game.
Here’s a deep dive into some of the biggest and most shocking upsets in college football history, along with insights into what made them legendary.
Appalachian State vs. Michigan (2007)
Location: Michigan Stadium | Final Score: Appalachian State 34, Michigan 32
The shock heard around the college football world. When Appalachian State, an FCS team, entered the Big House to face No. 5-ranked Michigan, no one gave them a chance. But thanks to an explosive offense and clutch plays, they held their own—and then some. The game ended with a dramatic blocked field goal, sealing one of the most historic upsets ever.
What made it historic:
- First FCS team to beat a ranked FBS opponent
- Played in front of 109,000 stunned fans
- Michigan’s national championship hopes vanished on opening day
Stanford vs. USC (2007)
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum | Final Score: Stanford 24, USC 23
Another unforgettable upset from 2007. USC was ranked No. 2 in the country and had a 35-game home win streak. Stanford? They were a 41-point underdog with a backup quarterback making his first start. Against all odds, the Cardinal shocked the Trojans with a late touchdown on 4th-and-goal, forever etching this game into upset lore.
Why it matters:
- One of the biggest point-spread upsets in NCAA history
- Set the tone for Stanford’s football renaissance under Jim Harbaugh
- Crushed USC’s national title dreams
Boise State vs. Oklahoma (2007 Fiesta Bowl)
Location: Glendale, AZ | Final Score: Boise State 43, Oklahoma 42 (OT)
This game wasn’t just an upset—it was a storybook finish. Boise State used a series of trick plays to outwit Oklahoma, including the now-famous “Statue of Liberty” play for a 2-point conversion to win in overtime. The underdog Broncos proved they belonged on the big stage.
Impactful elements:
- Changed the perception of non-Power Five teams
- Elevated Boise State to national contender status
- Often ranked among the greatest games in college football history
James Madison vs. Virginia Tech (2010)
Location: Lane Stadium | Final Score: JMU 21, Virginia Tech 16
James Madison stunned the Hokies on their own turf just days after Virginia Tech played a top-5 Boise State team. JMU, an FCS school, used disciplined defense and timely scoring to pull off a stunning win that sent shockwaves through the ACC.
Why it stands out:
- One of the few FCS-over-FBS victories
- Huge morale blow to Virginia Tech early in the season
- Sparked debates on scheduling and team preparedness
Georgia Southern vs. Florida (2013)
Location: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium | Final Score: Georgia Southern 26, Florida 20
Florida fans were left speechless after this shocking home loss. Georgia Southern—an FCS team transitioning to FBS—didn’t complete a single pass yet rushed for over 400 yards to beat the Gators. It was a defining low for Florida’s program and marked the end of Will Muschamp’s era.
Historical significance:
- No completed passes and still won against an SEC powerhouse
- Florida’s first loss to an FCS school
- Played a role in reshaping Gators’ coaching leadership
Howard vs. UNLV (2017)
Location: Sam Boyd Stadium | Final Score: Howard 43, UNLV 40
This game is remembered for being the biggest upset in college football history by point spread. Howard, led by quarterback Caylin Newton (brother of Cam Newton), was a 45-point underdog. Nobody expected a win—until Howard defied the odds and stunned the Rebels in Vegas.
Why it’s unique:
- 45-point underdogs (largest recorded spread victory)
- Helped put Howard football on the map
- Highlighted the emergence of talent from HBCUs
What Makes a College Football Upset Legendary?
1. Timing Matters
Upsets that happen in major bowl games or early in the season carry more weight. They shake rankings and set the tone for the rest of the year.
2. The Spread Tells the Story
When a team overcomes a 30+ point spread, it adds layers to the drama. The larger the odds, the greater the surprise.
3. National Impact
If an upset changes playoff standings, leads to a coaching change, or elevates a lesser-known program into the spotlight, it becomes part of college football history.
The Ripple Effect of Major Upsets
- Program Boosts: Small programs use upsets to enhance recruiting and funding.
- Coaching Careers: Upsets can make or break coaching tenures.
- Playoff Consequences: One upset can remove a top team from playoff contention.
- Fan Culture: These games become part of school lore and rallying pride.
FAQ’s
1. What is considered the biggest upset in college football history?
The 2007 game between Appalachian State and Michigan is widely regarded as the biggest upset in college football history. Appalachian State, an FCS team, defeated No. 5-ranked Michigan at the Big House, shocking fans and setting a new standard for upsets.
2. How do college football upsets affect national rankings?
Upsets can dramatically shift national rankings by knocking highly-ranked teams out of playoff contention and elevating lower-ranked or unranked teams into the spotlight. They often lead to changes in the AP Top 25 and CFP standings.
3. Have FCS teams ever beaten FBS teams in college football?
Yes, several FCS teams have defeated FBS opponents. Notable examples include Appalachian State over Michigan (2007), James Madison over Virginia Tech (2010), and Georgia Southern over Florida (2013). These wins are rare but impactful.
4. Why are upsets so common in college football compared to the NFL?
College football features a wider gap in team strength, unpredictable player performance, and high emotional stakes. The passion and rivalry in college sports, along with less consistent coaching or preparation, often lead to surprise outcomes.
5. What was the largest point spread upset in college football history?
Howard University’s 43–40 win over UNLV in 2017 holds the record for the biggest point-spread upset. Howard entered the game as a 45-point underdog and pulled off a stunning victory, led by quarterback Caylin Newton.
6. Can an upset win change a college football program’s future?
Absolutely. A major upset can boost a program’s national recognition, improve recruiting, attract media attention, and increase funding. Teams like Boise State and Appalachian State gained long-term momentum from their historic wins.
Final Thoughts: Why We Love Upsets
Upsets remind us why we love college football. They’re unpredictable, dramatic, and sometimes even poetic. When the underdog triumphs, it captures the imagination of every fan who’s ever believed in the impossible. Whether you’re cheering for a perennial powerhouse or a rising underdog, college football’s biggest upsets are a vital part of the sport’s heart and soul.
