| dbpprop:abstract
|
- The 2002 NCAA Division I-A football season ended the season with what most consider an exciting double overtime national championship game. Ohio State and Miami both came into the Fiesta Bowl undefeated. The underdog Buckeyes defeated the Hurricanes 31–24, ending Miami's 34 game winning streak. However, controversy did surround the end of the game. After Miami had taken the lead into overtime, Ohio State had a fourth and goal opportunity. Buckeye quarterback Craig Krenzel's pass fell incomplete in the end zone, appearing that Miami had won their 2nd straight title. However, as the Miami team began to race on the field they realized there was a late flag thrown on the play for pass interference. Though replays brought question to this call, it set up the Buckeyes for an easy score from the one-yard line. Though many have questioned the call, it was confirmed to be the correct call when the Big 12 reviewed the call. Jim Tressel won the national championship in only his second year as head coach. Rose Bowl officials were vocally upset over the loss of the Big Ten champ from the game. Former New England Patriots coach Pete Carroll returned the USC Trojans to a BCS bid in only his second season as head coach. Notre Dame also returned to prominence, as Tyrone Willingham became the first coach in Notre Dame history to win 10 games in his first season.
|