College Football Playoff Quarterfinals Overreaction: Texas survives, Penn State prevails & Ohio State dominates
Jan 2, 2025
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The hosts dive into the thrilling college football playoff games, mixing excitement with a tribute to recent tragedies. They dissect Texas's nail-biting win over Arizona State, highlighting pivotal moments and controversial calls. Penn State's dominant performance over Boise State garners praise, while the unexpected drama unfolds in the Rose Bowl between Oregon and Ohio State. The discussions also touch on the complexities of targeting rules and the intense rivalries that shape college football's dynamic landscape.
The tragic incident in New Orleans has overshadowed college football, reminding everyone of the human cost beyond the sport's excitement.
Arizona State's impressive comeback against Texas highlighted both the team's resilience and ongoing controversies regarding officiating in critical game moments.
Deep dives
Discussion of Tragedy Affecting College Football
Recent events have deeply impacted the college football world, specifically a tragic incident in New Orleans that has resulted in 15 fatalities and many injuries, including individuals connected to college football teams. The mood in the city is described as eerie and subdued, particularly in the aftermath of a joyful New Year’s celebration. Players, families, and fans are experiencing a mix of emotions as they navigate these tragedies while also preparing for upcoming games, such as the Notre Dame-Georgia Sugar Bowl. There's a collective sentiment that while football is important, it pales in comparison to the human lives and families affected by the incident.
Arizona State's Remarkable Comeback
Arizona State's football team displayed incredible resilience in a playoff game against Texas, coming back from what seemed to be a disastrous start. Initially down and facing a strong opponent, they managed to rally and tie the game, showcasing exceptional performances, particularly from player Cam Scadaboo who impressively contributed both in rushing and receiving. The game reached overtime, where Arizona State fought hard but ultimately fell to Texas, who skillfully capitalized on their key opportunities. This thrilling matchup not only highlighted Arizona State's fighting spirit but also set the stage for discussions on their future potential.
The Controversial Targeting Call
A pivotal moment in the Arizona State versus Texas matchup revolved around a contentious targeting call that went uncalled, leading to significant debates among commentators. Many argued that the play should have been ruled targeting due to the nature of the collision involving a defenseless player, which typically warrants a flag under college football rules. This non-call did not only fuel frustration among players and coaches but raised broader questions about the consistency of officiating in such high-stakes games. Fans and analysts alike found themselves divided over whether the decision was correct and what it could mean for the integrity of game officiating.
The Near Coach Brawl at the Cheez-It Bowl
Emotions ran high during the Cheez-It Bowl as a near altercation erupted between coaches Shane Beamer and Brett Bielema, showcasing the intensity of college football rivalries. Tensions flared when Bielema mocked Beamer's team during a moment of injury, leading to a heated exchange that became a spectacle, drawing attention from fans and commentators. Both coaches demonstrated their fiery personalities, reflecting a broader culture in college sports where competitive spirit can sometimes boil over into confrontations. This incident provided entertainment and drama, adding to the narrative of the bowl season, while also highlighting the passion and stakes involved in these games.
On today's episode of The College Football Enquirer, Dan Wetzel, Ross Dellenger and SI's Pat Forde react to the outcomes of three of the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal games.
They start with an update from Dellenger on the tragic events that occurred in New Orleans before the Sugar Bowl. They transition to a breakdown of Penn State's win over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl, in which Ashton Jeanty was held in check by the Nittany Lions. Then, they cover the exciting comeback by Arizona State against Texas in the Peach Bowl. They wrap up the show with the unexpected outcome of the Rose Bowl between Oregon and Ohio State.
(1:09) Sugar Bowl update
(9:29) Peach Bowl
(24:59) Fiesta Bowl
(35:39) Rose Bowl
(48:22) Cheez-it Bowl drama
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