The night Alabama broke a decades-long drought and a legendary winning streak
In short: On January 7, 2010, the Rose Bowl witnessed more than just a championship. Alabama secured its first national title since 1992, ending a dominant Texas era and completing a perfect 14-0 season in a game defined by physical dominance and sudden injury.
The 2010 BCS National Championship Game was a clash of titans: the Big 12's Texas Longhorns against the SEC's Alabama Crimson Tide. Entering the matchup, Texas held a commanding 7–0–1 all-time lead over Alabama, a series dating back to 1902. However, the momentum shifted early in the game when Alabama defensive lineman Marcell Dareus hit Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, pinching a nerve in McCoy's shoulder and forcing the 2008 Heisman runner-up from the game.
Alabama’s victory was fueled by a relentless ground game. Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram II rushed for 116 yards and two touchdowns, while freshman Trent Richardson added 109 yards and two scores. This offensive onslaught allowed Alabama to overcome a Texas defense that had been ranked number two in the country. The game was punctuated by defensive brilliance, including a 28-yard interception return for a touchdown by Dareus just before halftime, which extended Alabama's lead to 24–6.
The 37–21 final score marked Alabama's 13th national championship and completed a rare 14-0 season, joining only Ohio State (2002) and Boise State (2010) as recent undefeated champions. For Alabama coach Nick Saban, the win was his second BCS title with different programs. The game also stood as a historical milestone for broadcasters, serving as the final national championship to air on network television before ESPN took over all BCS telecasts in 2011.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2010 BCS National Championship Game
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