College football in the United States is more than a sport; it’s a deeply rooted tradition that brings fans together every fall. The 2016 season was particularly memorable, filled with fierce competition, breakout stars, and thrilling games that kept fans on the edge of their seats. As we look back at this sensational year, we highlight the top teams that made the 2016 season one for the history books. Each of these teams demonstrated remarkable talent, coaching, and determination, making them stand out in a crowded field of collegiate programs. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and examine the top 10 college football teams from the 2016 season, counting down from #10 to the almighty #1.
#10 Wisconsin Badgers
The Badgers of Wisconsin had an impressive 2016 season, showcasing a tough, resilient squad. Under the guidance of Head Coach Paul Chryst, they ended the regular season with a 10-3 record, punctuated by a hard-fought victory in the Cotton Bowl Classic against the Western Michigan Broncos. Their only losses were to Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State, all teams which were ranked in the top ten at the time. Their punishing defense was a point of pride and a key factor in their successful campaign.
#9 USC Trojans
The USC Trojans began their 2016 season with a rocky start but managed to bounce back and close the year with a phenomenal nine-game winning streak. This turnaround was largely propelled by the emergence of freshman quarterback Sam Darnold, who revitalized the offense. The Trojans capped off their season with a thrilling last-second win over Penn State in the Rose Bowl, finishing with a record of 10-3 and firmly re-establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in college football.
#8 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Oklahoma State’s Cowboys delivered an exciting 2016 season, known for their high-octane offense. The team finished with a 10-3 record, their season highlighted by an explosive performance against the Colorado Buffaloes in the Alamo Bowl. The Cowboys boasted a remarkable passing attack led by quarterback Mason Rudolph, who helped the team maintain a top-10 ranking in scoring offense nationally.
#7 Oklahoma Sooners
Neighboring rivals to the Oklahoma State Cowboys, the Oklahoma Sooners dominated the Big 12 Conference. The Sooners ended their season undefeated in conference play and with an overall 11-2 record. A powerhouse on offense, they were led by the skilled play of Heisman Trophy finalist Baker Mayfield and the dynamic Joe Mixon. The Sooners’ season was crowned with a resounding victory in the Sugar Bowl over Auburn.
#6 Michigan Wolverines
The Michigan Wolverines, under the direction of head coach Jim Harbaugh, had an impressive run in 2016. Their 10-3 record includes narrow losses to Ohio State and Iowa by a total of just four points. The Wolverines boasted one of the nation’s top defenses and saw significant contributions from players like Jabrill Peppers, who played multiple positions. Michigan’s tough, physical style of play was a hallmark of their successful season.
#5 Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State reminds us that no football season is complete without a Cinderella story, and in 2016, the Nittany Lions filled that role perfectly. After a couple of early-season losses, the team surged, winning nine straight games, including an unforgettable upset against Ohio State. Led by head coach James Franklin, Penn State clinched the Big Ten title and narrowly missed a potential playoff berth. They concluded their incredible season with a thrilling Rose Bowl that went down to the wire.
#4 Washington Huskies
The Washington Huskies emerged from the Pac-12 as a surprise playoff contender under Coach Chris Petersen’s leadership. Their 12-2 record reflects a season where they dominated their opponents with both a high-scoring offense and a stingy defense. Quarterback Jake Browning and a young, talented receiving corps helped propel the Huskies into the playoffs, where they faced off against Alabama in the semifinals, showcasing their return to national prominence.
#3 Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State proved to be one of the most talented teams in the country throughout the 2016 season. With a final record of 11-2, the Buckeyes, under the leadership of Urban Meyer, entered the playoffs as the number three seed. Their season included a memorable double-overtime victory against rival Michigan, solidifying their spot in the top tier of college football. Although their season ended with a tough playoff loss to Clemson, their overall performance was nothing short of remarkable.
#2 Clemson Tigers
Clemson’s Tigers, led by head coach Dabo Swinney and star quarterback Deshaun Watson, finished the regular season with a 12-1 record and a second consecutive trip to the playoffs. Their offense was explosive, and their defense was consistently effective throughout the year. Clemson’s playoff run was headlined by revenge against Ohio State in a convincing Fiesta Bowl win, setting up a rematch in the finals against the dominant Alabama Crimson Tide.
#1 Alabama Crimson Tide
The 2016 Alabama Crimson Tide, under the legendary coach Nick Saban, were the epitome of dominance in college football. They completed an undefeated regular season, steamrolling through the competition with a suffocating defense and efficient offense. Freshman quarterback Jalen Hurts brought a new dimension to the Tide’s offensive game. Alabama’s relentless pursuit of perfection took them all the way to the National Championship game, where they faced a fierce battle against Clemson. Although they ultimately fell just short of the title in a dramatic finish, the Crimson Tide’s exceptional performance throughout the season affirms their position as the top college football team of 2016.
The 2016 college football season told a story filled with twists, turns, and a tapestry of compelling narratives played out week after week on the gridiron. From dominant juggernauts to unexpected contenders, these top 10 teams gave fans a season to remember, forever etching their names in the annals of the sport’s rich history. Every Saturday, they fought with heart, grit, and a relentless drive to win, showcasing the very best that college football has to offer. As the lights dimmed on a sensational year, these unforgettable squads solidified their legacies, leaving an indelible mark that fans will cherish for years to come.