Undefeateds Tournament (College Football)

[Huckleberry]

I was looking through my historical ratings and filtered the all-time list for post-WWII teams that went undefeated with at least 6 wins. I just wanted to filter out the teams that were in the ratings for only a few games. When I did so, I discovered that 128 major college football teams have finished undefeated with at least 6 wins since the 1946 season.

Of course, 128 teams is a perfect amount for a single-elimination tournament. I thought it would be interesting if somebody would run this tournament. Nobody else jumped at the chance in the 30 seconds it took me to decide to do it myself. So that's what I'm going to do.

Rules:

1.) My ratings were used throughout this simulation.
2.) To be eligible, a team must have gone undefeated with at least 6 wins during a single college football season between 1946 and 2005, inclusive.
3.) For seeding purposes, my ratings were used. Seeding adjustments were made according to the following guidelines:
a. No school may have more than one team in an 8-team block of the s-curve (i.e., only one team in 1-8, 9-16, 17-24, etc.).
b. No school may play itself prior to a bracket final.
c. Where possible, only one team from each school may be in a single bracket.
4.) To run the simulation, I will assign a win probability based on my ratings (which are themselves a logistic scale) and a random number generator will determine the winner. The value of the random number will also determine the margin of victory, and the exact score will be determined using a combination of each team's points per game stats.

My next post will list the overall seeds from 1-128 along with their rating.

[Huckleberry]

Here are the seeds and ratings. Note that they are not in 100% descending order as I had to maneuver teams according to the above slotting rules.

Seed	Team	Rating
1	1971 Nebraska	116.54
2	1991 Washington	104.60
3	2005 Texas	104.28
4	1987 Miami (FL)	103.10
5	1972 Southern Cal	102.64
6	1973 Ohio St.	102.44
7	1974 Oklahoma	102.05
8	1988 Notre Dame	101.66
9	1999 Florida St.	101.09
10	1995 Nebraska	116.06
11	2001 Miami (FL)	102.04
12	1992 Alabama	101.50
13	1966 Notre Dame	101.03
14	1973 Michigan	100.19
15	2004 Southern Cal	100.14
16	1976 Pittsburgh	99.92
17	1961 Alabama	99.90
18	1991 Miami (FL)	100.90
19	1946 Notre Dame	99.53
20	1997 Nebraska	99.35
21	2000 Oklahoma	99.29
22	1986 Penn St.	99.16
23	1954 Ohio St.	98.11
24	1959 Syracuse	97.87
25	1994 Nebraska	98.16
26	1979 Alabama	99.49
27	1973 Notre Dame	97.98
28	1981 Clemson	97.86
29	1955 Oklahoma	97.30
30	1951 Maryland	97.09
31	1994 Penn St.	96.94
32	1998 Tennessee	96.68
33	1947 Michigan	96.56
34	1973 Oklahoma	97.25
35	1966 Alabama	98.31
36	1957 Auburn	96.52
37	1947 Notre Dame	96.48
38	1966 Michigan St.	96.48
39	1946 Army	95.95
40	2004 Utah	95.67
41	2004 Auburn	96.42
42	1949 Notre Dame	95.57
43	1962 Southern Cal	95.38
44	1963 Texas	94.82
45	2002 Ohio St.	94.93
46	1962 Mississippi	95.35
47	1953 Notre Dame	93.19
48	1952 Georgia Tech	93.68
49	1952 Michigan St.	93.43
50	1948 Michigan	93.35
51	1968 Ohio St.	92.94
52	1979 Southern Cal	93.15
53	1975 Arizona St.	93.01
54	1964 Arkansas	93.68
55	1969 Texas	92.85
56	1969 Penn St.	92.97
57	1949 Army	92.06
58	1973 Penn St.	92.56
59	1997 Michigan	92.45
60	1954 UCLA	92.24
61	1946 Georgia	92.17
62	1949 Oklahoma	91.97
63	1958 LSU	92.84
64	1956 Oklahoma	91.64
65	1969 Southern Cal	91.04
66	1980 Georgia	91.41
67	1968 Penn St.	89.13
68	1990 Georgia Tech	90.00
69	1958 Army	89.49
70	1970 Nebraska	90.83
71	1956 Texas A&M	87.87
72	1961 Ohio St.	88.94
73	1960 Mississippi	88.73
74	1947 Pennsylvania	87.84
75	1954 Oklahoma	88.63
76	1963 Memphis	88.86
77	1992 Michigan	87.82
78	1947 SMU	87.21
79	1987 Syracuse	87.55
80	1948 Notre Dame	86.95
81	1951 Illinois	86.69
82	1993 Auburn	86.57
83	1964 Princeton	86.50
84	1975 Arkansas St.	86.43
85	1951 Michigan St.	85.42
86	1958 Auburn	85.86
87	1951 Georgia Tech	85.90
88	1950 Wyoming	85.89
89	1984 BYU	85.42
90	1950 Princeton	85.34
91	1970 Arizona St.	84.68
92	1999 Marshall	84.44
93	1947 Penn St.	84.22
94	1948 Army	83.65
95	1982 SMU	84.17
96	1958 Air Force	83.61
97	1974 Miami (OH)	83.30
98	1965 Dartmouth	83.23
99	1969 San Diego St.	83.10
100	1994 Texas A&M	82.71
101	1973 Miami (OH)	81.24
102	1971 Toledo	81.46
103	1957 Arizona St.	81.65
104	1948 Clemson	81.35
105	1951 Princeton	80.99
106	1998 Tulane	80.17
107	1950 West Texas A&M	79.90
108	1960 New Mexico St.	79.70
109	1951 San Francisco	79.53
110	1950 Clemson	79.27
111	1977 Colgate	78.36
112	1969 Toledo	76.06
113	1976 Rutgers	77.02
114	1982 Fresno St.	76.85
115	1946 Hardin-Simmons	74.60
116	1995 Toledo	75.82
117	1970 Dartmouth	74.11
118	1985 Fresno St.	73.36
119	1957 VMI	72.80
120	1979 Central Michigan	72.62
121	1954 Virginia Tech	70.74
122	1970 Toledo	75.55
123	1960 Yale	69.66
124	1954 Boston College	69.12
125	1956 Wyoming	65.53
126	1962 Dartmouth	66.56
127	1968 Yale	61.52
128	1968 Harvard	58.87

[Huckleberry]

And now the regions, starting with Region I.

The following format will precede each team's name:
Seed (Overall Seed)

REGION I

Bracket A

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-16 (128) 1968 Harvard
IA-8 (64) 1956 Oklahoma vs. IA-9 (65) 1969 Southern Cal
IA-4 (32) 1998 Tennessee vs. IA-13 (97) 1974 Miami-OH
IA-5 (33) 1947 Michigan vs. IA-12 (96) 1958 Air Force
IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama vs. IA-14 (112) 1969 Toledo
IA-6 (48) 1952 Georgia Tech vs. IA-11 (81) 1951 Illinois
IA-2 (16) 1976 Pittsburgh vs. IA-15 (113) 1976 Rutgers
IA-7 (49) 1952 Michigan St. vs. IA-10 (80) 1948 Notre Dame

Bracket B

IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-15 (120) 1979 Central Michigan
IB-7 (56) 1969 Penn St. vs. IB-10 (73) 1960 Mississippi
IB-3 (24) 1959 Syracuse vs. IB-14 (105) 1951 Princeton
IB-6 (41) 2004 Auburn vs. IB-11 (88) 1950 Wyoming
IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska vs. IB-13 (104) 1948 Clemson
IB-5 (40) 2004 Utah vs. IB-12 (89) 1984 BYU
IB-1 (8) 1988 Notre Dame vs. IB-16 (121) 1954 Virginia Tech
IB-8 (57) 1949 Army vs. IB-9 (72) 1961 Ohio St.

[Huckleberry]

REGION II

Bracket A

IIA-1 (1) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-16 (127) 1968 Yale
IIA-8 (63) 1958 LSU vs. IIA-9 (66) 1980 Georgia
IIA-4 (31) 1994 Penn St. vs. IIA-13 (98) 1965 Dartmouth
IIA-5 (34) 1973 Oklahoma vs. IIA-12 (95) 1982 SMU
IIA-3 (18) 1991 Miami-FL vs. IIA-14 (111) 1977 Colgate
IIA-6 (47) 1953 Notre Dame vs. IIA-11 (82) 1993 Auburn
IIA-2 (15) 2004 Southern Cal vs. IIA-15 (114) 1982 Fresno St.
IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan vs. IIA-10 (79) 1987 Syracuse

Bracket B

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-15 (119) 1957 VMI
IIB-7 (55) 1969 Texas vs. IIB-10 (74) 1947 Pennsylvania
IIB-3 (23) 1954 Ohio St. vs. IIB-14 (106) 1998 Tulane
IIB-6 (42) 1949 Notre Dame vs. IIB-11 (87) 1951 Georgia Tech
IIB-4 (26) 1979 Alabama vs. IIB-13 (103) 1957 Arizona St.
IIB-5 (39) 1946 Army vs. IIB-12 (90) 1950 Princeton
IIB-8 (58) 1973 Penn St. vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M
IIB-1 (7) 1974 Oklahoma vs. IIB-16 (122) 1970 Toledo

[Huckleberry]

REGION III

Bracket A

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-16 (126) 1962 Dartmouth
IIIA-8 (62) 1949 Oklahoma vs. IIIA-9 (67) 1968 Penn St.
IIIA-4 (30) 1951 Maryland vs. IIIA-13 (99) 1969 San Diego St.
IIIA-5 (35) 1966 Alabama vs. IIIA-12 (94) 1948 Army
IIIA-3 (19) 1946 Notre Dame vs. IIIA-14 (110) 1950 Clemson
IIIA-6 (46) 1962 Mississippi vs. IIIA-11 (83) 1964 Princeton
IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan vs. IIIA-15 (115) 1946 Hardin-Simmons
IIIA-7 (51) 1968 Ohio St. vs. IIIA-10 (78) 1947 SMU

Bracket B

IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL vs. IIIB-15 (118) 1985 Fresno St.
IIIB-7 (54) 1964 Arkansas vs. IIIB-10 (75) 1954 Oklahoma
IIIB-3 (22) 1986 Penn St. vs. IIIB-14 (107) 1950 West Texas A&M
IIIB-6 (43) 1962 Southern Cal vs. IIIB-11 (86) 1958 Auburn
IIIB-4 (27) 1973 Notre Dame vs. IIIB-13 (102) 1971 Toledo
IIIB-5 (38) 1966 Michigan St. vs. IIIB-12 (91) 1970 Arizona St.
IIIB-8 (59) 1997 Michigan vs. IIIB-9 (70) 1970 Nebraska
IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-16 (123) 1960 Yale

[Huckleberry]

REGION IV

Bracket A

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-16 (125) 1956 Wyoming
IVA-8 (61) 1946 Georgia vs. IVA-9 (68) 1990 Georgia Tech
IVA-4 (29) 1955 Oklahoma vs. IVA-13 (100) 1994 Texas A&M
IVA-5 (36) 1957 Auburn vs. IVA-12 (93) 1947 Penn St.
IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska vs. IVA-14 (109) 1951 San Francisco
IVA-6 (45) 2002 Ohio St. vs. IVA-11 (84) 1975 Arkansas St.
IVA-2 (13) 1966 Notre Dame vs. IVA-15 (116) 1995 Toledo
IVA-7 (52) 1979 Southern Cal vs. IVA-10 (77) 1992 Michigan

Bracket B

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-15 (117) 1970 Dartmouth
IVB-7 (53) 1975 Arizona St. vs. IVB-10 (76) 1963 Memphis
IVB-3 (21) 2000 Oklahoma vs. IVB-14 (108) 1960 New Mexico St.
IVB-6 (44) 1963 Texas vs. IVB-11 (85) 1951 Michigan St.
IVB-4 (28) 1981 Clemson vs. IVB-13 (101) 1973 Miami-OH
IVB-5 (37) 1947 Notre Dame vs. IVB-12 (92) 1999 Marshall
IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA vs. IVB-9 (69) 1958 Army
IVB-1 (5) 1972 Southern Cal vs. IVB-16 (124) 1954 Boston College

[Huckleberry]

=================================

Round One Results Begin Following This Post

=================================

[Huckleberry]

Region I

Bracket A

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-16 (128) 1968 Harvard

The biggest mismatch in the tournament ends in predictable fashion. The '71 Huskers cruise to a blowout over '68 Harvard. 1971 Nebraska 52, 1968 Harvard 0

IA-8 (64) 1956 Oklahoma vs. IA-9 (65) 1969 Southern Cal

The 1956 edition of the Bud Wilkinson-led Sooners open up the tournament with a surprisingly easy win over the once-tied Trojans. 1956 Oklahoma 34, 1969 Southern Cal 10

IA-4 (32) 1998 Tennessee vs. IA-13 (97) 1974 Miami-OH

Considered by many fans of their era to be one of the luckiest undefeated teams of their time, the Volunteers try to prove their doubters wrong, opening with an easy win. 1998 Tennessee 34, 1974 Miami-OH 7

IA-5 (33) 1947 Michigan vs. IA-12 (96) 1958 Air Force

The first Wolverines squad to take the field strolls to a win over the outmatched Falcons. 1947 Michigan 30, 1958 Air Force 8

IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama vs. IA-14 (112) 1969 Toledo

In an early surprise, a national champion Crimson Tide team struggles badly with a Toledo team they were supposed to handle with ease. In the end, though, a win is a win in this kind of tournament. 1961 Alabama 23, 1969 Toledo 16

IA-6 (48) 1952 Georgia Tech vs. IA-11 (81) 1951 Illinois

Don't know much about these squads, but the Yellowjackets used a sting-y (get it?) defense to advance. 1952 Georgia Tech 24, 1951 Illinois 6

IA-2 (16) 1976 Pittsburgh vs. IA-15 (113) 1976 Rutgers

It didn't take long, but we have our first shocking upset. The Scarlet Knights win a wild one over their contemporaries. On a personal note, I'm very sad to see Tony Dorsett so quickly gone from this event. 1976 Rutgers 19, 1976 Pittsburgh 18

IA-7 (49) 1952 Michigan St. vs. IA-10 (80) 1948 Notre Dame

The Rutgers win is followed by a milder upset when the Fighting Irish win the school's first game in the tournament. 1948 Notre Dame 28, 1952 Michigan St. 14

Region I-A Second Round Matchups:

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-8 (64) 1956 Oklahoma
IA-4 (32) 1998 Tennessee vs. IA-5 (33) 1947 Michigan
IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama vs. IA-6 (48) 1952 Georgia Tech
IA-10 (80) 1948 Notre Dame vs. IA-15 (113) 1976 Rutgers

[Huckleberry]

Region I

Bracket B

IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-15 (120) 1979 Central Michigan

Bobby Bowden's only undefeated team struggles a bit defensively but they have enough to hold off the Chippewas in round one. 1999 Florida St. 31, 1979 Central Michigan 16

IB-7 (56) 1969 Penn St. vs. IB-10 (73) 1960 Mississippi

The Nittany Lions declined an invitation to play Texas in the Cotton Bowl but are off on the right foot in this tournament. 1969 Penn St. 23, 1960 Mississippi 13

IB-3 (24) 1959 Syracuse vs. IB-14 (105) 1951 Princeton

It's a close call but the Orangemen advance to the second round over the Tigers. 1959 Syracuse 24, 1951 Princeton 19

IB-6 (41) 2004 Auburn vs. IB-11 (88) 1950 Wyoming

Still fuming over not getting a chance to prove their worth on the field against Southern Cal, the Tigers start slowly but are never in danger against the Cowboys. 2004 Auburn 27, 1950 Wyoming 14

IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska vs. IB-13 (104) 1948 Clemson

The first of two straight Osborne squads in this tournament, the 1994 edition take down Clemson. 1994 Nebraska 30, 1948 Clemson 9

IB-5 (40) 2004 Utah vs. IB-12 (89) 1984 BYU

The matchup that the entire state of Utah has been waiting for turns into a yawner. Utah simply manhandles the Cougars from start to finish. 2004 Utah 38, 1984 BYU 17

IB-1 (8) 1988 Notre Dame vs. IB-16 (121) 1954 Virginia Tech

Ouch is the best word to describe this one. Notre Dame moves to 2-0 as the squad led by Tony Rice just might have sent a message to tournament favorites 1971 Nebraska. 1988 Notre Dame 54, 1954 Virginia Tech 3

IB-8 (57) 1949 Army vs. IB-9 (72) 1961 Ohio St.

The Black Knights win a hardfought battle over the Buckeyes but are faced with the Fighting Irish buzzsaw in the next round. 1949 Army 21, 1961 Ohio St. 19

Region I-B Second Round Matchups:

IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-7 (56) 1969 Penn St.
IB-3 (24) 1959 Syracuse vs. IB-6 (41) 2004 Auburn
IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska vs. IB-5 (40) 2004 Utah
IB-1 (8) 1988 Notre Dame vs. IB-8 (57) 1949 Army

[Huckleberry]

Region II

Bracket A

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-16 (127) 1968 Yale

The Elis almost pull off the upset of the tournament but Washington is simply too strong in the end. The Huskies would have been devastated to lose this as the 1991 Miami Hurricanes are also in II-A. 1991 Washington 28, 1968 Yale 24

IIA-8 (63) 1958 LSU vs. IIA-9 (66) 1980 Georgia

Herschel Walker, widely considered to be the greatest freshman player in college football history, leads the Bulldogs to a minor upset over the Bayou Bengals. 1980 Georgia 28, 1958 LSU 7

IIA-4 (31) 1994 Penn St. vs. IIA-13 (98) 1965 Dartmouth

Known for their high-powered offense, the 1994 Nittany Lions' defense joins in the fun as Penn St. rolls easily. 1994 Penn St. 45, 1965 Dartmouth 3

IIA-5 (34) 1973 Oklahoma vs. IIA-12 (95) 1982 SMU

The Pony Express is derailed immediately by a powerful Sooners squad. They put up a fight, but the best team money could buy still can't get over the death penalty. 1973 Oklahoma 26, 1982 SMU 20

IIA-3 (18) 1991 Miami-FL vs. IIA-14 (111) 1977 Colgate

In a huge statement game, the Hurricanes destroy Colgate and the potential matchup against the Huskies is still on a collision course. 1991 Miami-FL 49, 1977 Colgate 0

IIA-6 (47) 1953 Notre Dame vs. IIA-11 (82) 1993 Auburn

The only postseason that the 1993 Auburn team was eligible for does not treat them kindly. Notre Dame continues have success with all their teams. 1953 Notre Dame 34, 1993 Auburn 14

IIA-2 (15) 2004 Southern Cal vs. IIA-15 (114) 1982 Fresno St.

The Trojans struggle with Fresno St., but Reggie Bush has a big game and national media immediately declare him Tournament MVP favorite based on yardage gained against the Fresno State Bulldogs. Sounds familiar. No, I'm not bitter. 2004 Southern Cal 28, 1982 Fresno St. 24

IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan vs. IIA-10 (79) 1987 Syracuse


Another good game for the 1940s Michigan teams as they comfortably move past the Don McPherson led Orangemen. 1948 Michigan 31, 1987 Syracuse 10

Region II-A Second Round Matchups:

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-9 (66) 1980 Georgia
IIA-4 (31) 1994 Penn St. vs. IA-5 (34) 1973 Oklahoma
IIA-3 (18) 1991 Miami-FL vs. IIA-6 (47) 1953 Notre Dame
IIA-2 (15) 2004 Southern Cal vs. IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan

[Huckleberry]

Region II

Bracket B

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-15 (119) 1957 VMI

Underseeded by virtue of the selection guidelines, the '95 Huskers dominate VMI to advance. 1995 Nebraska 48, 1957 VMI 3

IIB-7 (55) 1969 Texas vs. IIB-10 (74) 1947 Pennsylvania

The first Texas team in the tournament has no problems with the Quakers but is faced with the reality of their unlucky draw in the second round. 1969 Texas 31, 1947 Pennsylvania 10

IIB-3 (23) 1954 Ohio St. vs. IIB-14 (106) 1998 Tulane

Undefeated but left out of the first BCS edition, the Green Wave are unable to get their revenge against Big Ten powerhouse Ohio State despite a valiant effort. 1954 Ohio St. 30, 1998 Tulane 21

IIB-6 (42) 1949 Notre Dame vs. IIB-11 (87) 1951 Georgia Tech

Notre Dame's first loss is an upset as they fall to the Ramblin' Wreck in a nailbiter. 1951 Georgia Tech 20, 1949 Notre Dame 19

IIB-4 (26) 1979 Alabama vs. IIB-13 (103) 1957 Arizona St.

The Crimson Tide dominates this contest from pregame to final whistle. The Sun Devils look completely out of their element. 1979 Alabama 49, 1957 Arizona St. 0

IIB-5 (39) 1946 Army vs. IIB-12 (90) 1950 Princeton

Glenn Davis and Doc Blanchard lead Army to an easy win but must contend with a solid Crimson Tide team next. 1946 Army 32, 1950 Princeton 7

IIB-8 (58) 1973 Penn St. vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M

The Aggies score a minor upset over Paterno. This squad may have been A&M's best, even better than the 1939 AP national champs. 1956 Texas A&M 23, 1973 Penn St. 17

IIB-1 (7) 1974 Oklahoma vs. IIB-16 (122) 1970 Toledo

The Rockets battle hard again but have only one more shot to salvage a win from their 35-game-winning-streak squads. 1974 Oklahoma 34, 1970 Toledo 13

Region II-B Second Round Matchups:

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-7 (55) 1969 Texas
IIB-3 (23) 1954 Ohio St. vs. IIB-11 (87) 1951 Georgia Tech
IIB-4 (26) 1979 Alabama vs. IIB-5 (39) 1946 Army
IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M vs. IIB-1 (7) 1974 Oklahoma

-------------------------------------------------------

The second half of the first round will take place tomorrow.

[Huckleberry]

Region III

Bracket A

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-16 (126) 1962 Dartmouth

While not as frightening as what happened yesterday to the 1991 Washington Huskies, the Longhorns also struggle badly against a team they were favored to destroy. 2005 Texas 34, 1962 Dartmouth 14

IIIA-8 (62) 1949 Oklahoma vs. IIIA-9 (67) 1968 Penn St.

The earliest Oklahoma entry in the tournament comes out slowly and is unable to recover against the Nittany Lions. While the fact Penn St. wins is not a huge upset, the ease with which they do it is surprising. 1968 Penn St. 30, 1949 Oklahoma 14

IIIA-4 (30) 1951 Maryland vs. IIIA-13 (99) 1969 San Diego St.

Forgotten by many and rarely mentioned as a great team from the past, the 1951 Terrapins were very strong, winning 10 games by an average of 31 points. They open with a good win over the Aztecs, nothing to be concerned with but enough of a battle to get their work in. 1951 Maryland 37, 1969 San Diego St. 20

IIIA-5 (35) 1966 Alabama vs. IIIA-12 (94) 1948 Army

The Crimson Tide take no prisoners against the Black Knights, whitewashing the cadets. 1966 Alabama 38, 1948 Army 0

IIIA-3 (19) 1946 Notre Dame vs. IIIA-14 (110) 1950 Clemson

One half of the most famous scoreless draw in football history, the Fighting Irish have familiar trouble with their offense but put away the Tigers. 1946 Notre Dame 24, 1950 Clemson 13

IIIA-6 (46) 1962 Mississippi vs. IIIA-11 (83) 1964 Princeton

Two teams powered by unyielding defenses and opportunistic offenses battled in a predictably low-scoring game. The Rebels prevailed, though, and the Ivy League's record is now 0-8 in the tournament. 1962 Mississippi 17, 1964 Princeton 10

IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan vs. IIIA-15 (115) 1946 Hardin-Simmons

After jumping to an early lead the 1973 Wolverines were unable to continue adding points and left the field unsatisfied with the final score against the a Hardin-Simmons team considered pregame to be a 30 point underdog. 1973 Michigan 23, 1946 Hardin-Simmons 13

IIIA-7 (51) 1968 Ohio St. vs. IIIA-10 (78) 1947 SMU

An uneventful game saw SMU's second team in the tournament suffer the same immediate elimination as their only other entry. Doak Walker joins Eric Dickerson as all-time great Mustang running backs on the sidelines. 1968 Ohio St. 24, 1947 SMU 10

Region III-A Second Round Matchups:

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-9 (67) 1968 Penn St.
IIIA-4 (30) 1951 Maryland vs. IIIA-5 (35) 1966 Alabama
IIIA-3 (19) 1946 Notre Dame vs. IIIA-6 (46) 1962 Mississippi
IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan vs. IIIA-7 (51) 1968 Ohio St.

[Huckleberry]

Region III

Bracket B

IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL vs. IIIB-15 (118) 1985 Fresno St.

The Hurricanes are in complete control before the Bulldogs put up some garbage time points. This squad is Miami's only representative from their 34-game winning streak. 2001 Miami-FL 35, 1985 Fresno St. 17

IIIB-7 (54) 1964 Arkansas vs. IIIB-10 (75) 1954 Oklahoma

The earliest of three consecutive Sooner squads representing the record 47-game winning streak is unable to get their offense untracked and falls quickly to the Hogs. The 1964 Arkansas squad was the nation's best but fell victim to the time when the final polls were taken before the bowl games. 1964 Arkansas 23, 1954 Oklahoma 10

IIIB-3 (22) 1986 Penn St. vs. IIIB-14 (107) 1950 West Texas A&M

Most people considered this game to be a blowout-in-waiting, but West Texas A&M gives the Nittany Lions as much all they can handle. Just like in the Fiesta Bowl, though, Penn St. prevails. 1986 Penn St. 27, 1950 West Texas A&M 21

IIIB-6 (43) 1962 Southern Cal vs. IIIB-11 (86) 1958 Auburn

The Trojans figure out the Tigers defense, which gave up 6 points per game, early and roll to an easy win. 1962 Southern Cal 31, 1958 Auburn 0

IIIB-4 (27) 1973 Notre Dame vs. IIIB-13 (102) 1971 Toledo

The last chance for the Toledo dynasty comes against a powerful Fighting Irish squad. Once again the Rockets battle bravely but simply can't overcome the talent disparity. 1973 Notre Dame 28, 1971 Toledo 16

IIIB-5 (38) 1966 Michigan St. vs. IIIB-12 (91) 1970 Arizona St.

Having never recovered from Parseghian's tie strategy the Spartans take out their frustration on the hapless Sun Devils. With two of their three entries gone, Arizona St. has been outscored 90-3. 1966 Michigan St. 41, 1970 Arizona St. 3

IIIB-8 (59) 1997 Michigan vs. IIIB-9 (70) 1970 Nebraska

The 1970 version of the Cornhuskers looks to exact revenge for the final 1997 AP ballot. Meanwhile the Wolverines look for the same for the Coaches' Poll that switched to the 'Huskers after the bowl games. What was billed as a classic encounter disappoints as the Cornhuskers throttle Charles Woodson and friends. 1970 Nebraska 33, 1997 Michigan 10

IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-16 (123) 1960 Yale

At this point nobody expects an Ivy League school to mount much of a challenge but this Yale squad at least leaves the field with their heads up. 1973 Ohio St. 31, 1960 Yale 9

Region III-B Second Round Matchups:

IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL vs. IIIB-7 (54) 1964 Arkansas
IIIB-3 (22) 1986 Penn St. vs. IIIB-6 (43) 1962 Southern Cal
IIIB-4 (27) 1973 Notre Dame vs. IIIB-5 (38) 1966 Michigan St.
IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-9 (70) 1970 Nebraska

-----------------------------------------------------------

Region IV first round games to come later this afternoon/evening.

[Huckleberry]

Region IV

Bracket A

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-16 (125) 1956 Wyoming

The Cowboys make it three out of four close games for the regional top seeds. Only the overall tournament favorite 1971 Cornhuskers rolled their doormat. But as is the case with the others, the favorite survives. 1987 Miami-FL 28, 1956 Wyoming 13

IVA-8 (61) 1946 Georgia vs. IVA-9 (68) 1990 Georgia Tech

Controversial champion Colorado's loss made them ineligible for this tournament, so only the Yellowjackets represent that wild season. And represent they do, scoring a mild upset over their intrastate rivals. 1990 Georgia Tech 26, 1946 Georgia 20

IVA-4 (29) 1955 Oklahoma vs. IVA-13 (100) 1994 Texas A&M

The highest seed of the three consecutive Sooner teams faces off against an Aggie squad that was ineligible for their own conference championship. Unlike their 1956 compatriots, though, this Aggie squad is unable to pull off the upset. 1955 Oklahoma 26, 1994 Texas A&M 14

IVA-5 (36) 1957 Auburn vs. IVA-12 (93) 1947 Penn St.

The earliest Nittany Lion team is unable to mount many scoring chances against an Auburn squad that allowed only 2.33 points per game in their season. 1957 Auburn 23, 1947 Penn St. 7

IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska vs. IVA-14 (109) 1951 San Francisco

The Cornhuskers come into the game talking about definitively claiming the 1997 title by advancing whereas the '97 Wolverines could not. They're serious enough about it to blow out San Francisco. 1997 Nebraska 44, 1951 San Francisco 9

IVA-6 (45) 2002 Ohio St. vs. IVA-11 (84) 1975 Arkansas St.

Considered (incorrectly) by many to have benefited from a bad call at the end of their own championship game, the Buckeyes are motivated to quiet the critics. Unfortunately for them they fall victim to one of the larger first round upsets at the hands of Arkansas St. No word on the impact Maurice Clarett's legal issues had on the game. 1975 Arkansas St. 27, 2002 Ohio St. 16

IVA-2 (13) 1966 Notre Dame vs. IVA-15 (116) 1995 Toledo

Once again the Rockets are paired with Notre Dame and this game represents their last chance of four to advance a team. Unfortunately this was their least-equipped club and they fall easily. 1966 Notre Dame 50, 1995 Toledo 0

IVA-7 (52) 1979 Southern Cal vs. IVA-10 (77) 1992 Michigan

Winners only 9 times out of 12 games in 1992 (they tied three games in that single season), the '92 Wolverines have to hear about how they don't belong. The disprove the talk on the field, though, scoring a solid win over a good Trojan team. 1992 Michigan 31, 1979 Southern Cal 17

Region IV-A Second Round Matchups:

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-9 (68) 1990 Georgia Tech
IVA-4 (29) 1955 Oklahoma vs. IVA-5 (36) 1957 Auburn
IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska vs. IVA-11 (84) 1975 Arkansas St.
IVA-2 (13) 1966 Notre Dame vs. IVA-10 (77) 1992 Michigan

[Huckleberry]

Region IV

Bracket B

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-15 (117) 1970 Dartmouth

The much-maligned '92 Crimson Tide offense explodes on the Ivy boys from Dartmouth and the defense does what it does best. 1992 Alabama 47, 1970 Dartmouth 0

IVB-7 (53) 1975 Arizona St. vs. IVB-10 (76) 1963 Memphis

The final chance for the Sun Devils to save face after two blowout losses comes against the lone Memphis representative. The good news is that Arizona St. is finally favored, and they manage the win if only barely. 1975 Arizona St. 17, 1963 Memphis 16

IVB-3 (21) 2000 Oklahoma vs. IVB-14 (108) 1960 New Mexico St.

This Sooner squad stormed through the month of October and back into national prominence after a downturn in the 1990s. They're not done yet, either, as they handle NMSU. 2000 Oklahoma 31, 1960 New Mexico St. 20

IVB-6 (44) 1963 Texas vs. IVB-11 (85) 1951 Michigan St.

Darrell Royal's first championship team looks to move the Longhorns to 3-0 in the first round against the Spartans. The hardfought battle ends with both teams showing well, but only one team can advance. 1963 Texas 20, 1951 Michigan St. 16

IVB-4 (28) 1981 Clemson vs. IVB-13 (101) 1973 Miami-OH

There was a time when Danny Ford was what Bob Stoops is now. If Ford could relive that season forever, he just might want to do it. And the Tigers keep that dream alive with a blowout over the other Miami. 1981 Clemson 44, 1973 Miami-OH 0

IVB-5 (37) 1947 Notre Dame vs. IVB-12 (92) 1999 Marshall

Against the Chad Pennington-led Thundering Herd the Fighting Irish win again, bringing their first round record to a sparkling 7-1. 1947 Notre Dame 31, 1999 Marshall 10

IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA vs. IVB-9 (69) 1958 Army

Anticipating a possible second round matchup against the crosstown Trojans, the Bruins are able to focus on the task at hand and put away the most recent Army team. 1954 UCLA 27, 1958 Army 10

IVB-1 (5) 1972 Southern Cal vs. IVB-16 (124) 1954 Boston College

This game is never in doubt as the greatest Southern Cal team ever easily dispatches BC. 1972 Southern Cal 51, 1954 Boston College 0

Region IV-B Second Round Matchups:

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-7 (53) 1975 Arizona St.
IVB-3 (21) 2000 Oklahoma vs. IVB-6 (44) 1963 Texas
IVB-4 (28) 1981 Clemson vs. IVB-5 (37) 1947 Notre Dame
IVB-1 (5) 1972 Southern Cal vs. IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA

-----------------------------------------------------

Second round games will run tonight.

[Huckleberry]

SECOND ROUND GAMES

Region I

Bracket A

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-8 (64) 1956 Oklahoma

The pretournament favorites roll again although the Sooners put up a decent showing to start against their rivals. The 1971 edition of the Sooners would have been a favorite in this tournament if they had gotten past the 'Huskers. But it was not to be. 1971 Nebraska 35, 1956 Oklahoma 14

IA-4 (32) 1998 Tennessee vs. IA-5 (33) 1947 Michigan

The Volunteers continue to show an ability to win games just as they did in '98. Survive and advance. 1998 Tennessee 26, 1947 Michigan 21

IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama vs. IA-6 (48) 1952 Georgia Tech

The Crimson Tide respond well to their struggle against Toledo in the first round and the Yellowjackets are overpowered. 1961 Alabama 35, 1952 Georgia Tech 0

IA-10 (80) 1948 Notre Dame vs. IA-15 (113) 1976 Rutgers

The '48 Irish were fortunate to avoid 1976 Pittsburgh thanks to the big upset and they take full advantage to move on. 1948 Notre Dame 28, 1976 Rutgers 7


Bracket B

B-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-7 (56) 1969 Penn St.

This one is no contest as the Seminoles get untracked early and the Nittany Lions never mount much of a threat. 1999 Florida St. 39, 1969 Penn St. 7

IB-3 (24) 1959 Syracuse vs. IB-6 (41) 2004 Auburn

A hardfought battle goes the Orangemen's way but the Auburn Tigers can take solace in the fact that this time they were eliminated on the field and not by the vagaries of a convoluted system. 1959 Syracuse 28, 2004 Auburn 16

IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska vs. IB-5 (40) 2004 Utah

At the same time that Auburn's dream is ending the Utes are pounded back to reality by Nebraska. This one was not pretty. 1994 Nebraska 41, 2004 Utah 14

IB-1 (8) 1988 Notre Dame vs. IB-8 (57) 1949 Army

When you think of Notre Dame you probably think of one of the greatest traditions in college football and the ghosts of many years gone by. Amazing to realize that the 1988 squad was probably the best Irish team ever fielded and that their 31-30 win over Miami at home was one of the best games of all time by any measure and we were lucky enough to have seen it. 1988 Notre Dame 34, 1949 Army 13

Region I Bracket Semifinals

Bracket A

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-4 (32) 1998 Tennessee
IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama vs. IA-10 (80) 1948 Notre Dame

Bracket B

IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-3 (24) 1959 Syracuse
IB-1 (8) 1988 Notre Dame vs. IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska

Only one seed upset in the bracket semis of Region I.

[Huckleberry]

SECOND ROUND GAMES

Region II

Bracket A

IA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-9 (66) 1980 Georgia

Coming off an extremely disappointing performance in the first round the Huskies are in a frenzy as the game gets underway. The only problem is one Herschel Walker. Walker single-handedly keeps the Bulldogs in the game but no team can beat these Huskies without more than one great performance. 1991 Washington 30, 1980 Georgia 17

IIA-4 (31) 1994 Penn St. vs. IA-5 (34) 1973 Oklahoma

Kerry Collins and friends continue to fire on all cylinders offensively and even the 1973 Sooners can stop the freight train. The result sets up a classic battle between this offense and the '91 Washington defense in the next round. 1994 Penn St. 38, 1973 Oklahoma 20

IIA-3 (18) 1991 Miami-FL vs. IIA-6 (47) 1953 Notre Dame

Meanwhile there's another piece of destiny calling the Huskies' name. The other undefeated team from 1991 doesn't look like they want to miss the opportunity. 1991 Miami-FL 37, 1953 Notre Dame 6

IIA-2 (15) 2004 Southern Cal vs. IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan

Seems like yesterday that this USC dynasty was being touted as the best ever. A little secret on that one, though, is that the ESPN College Gameday crew recorded the entire series late one night and didn't even take it seriously themselves. Then the decision was made to run with it. But since then the 2005 version was beaten and now the 2004 edition loses in a hardfought upset to the Wolverines. 1948 Michigan 21, 2004 Southern Cal 20

Bracket B

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-7 (55) 1969 Texas

In the interest of full disclosure, not that it will come as a surprise to any of you, I'm a Texas fan. Let's just say that this result was hard to deal with no matter how likely I knew it was going to be. The 1969 Longhorns were the standard for Texas football my entire life until only 7 months ago. 1995 Nebraska 43, 1969 Texas 17

IIB-3 (23) 1954 Ohio St. vs. IIB-11 (87) 1951 Georgia Tech

The powerful '95 Huskers will meet a stingy defense (7.5 ppg) in the bracket semifinals after the Buckeyes cruise. 1954 Ohio St. 21, 1951 Georgia Tech 10

IIB-4 (26) 1979 Alabama vs. IIB-5 (39) 1946 Army

A touchdown apiece for Mr. Inside and Mr. Outside isn't enough as one of college football's legendary teams is eliminated. 1979 Alabama 21, 1946 Army 14

IIB-1 (7) 1974 Oklahoma vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M

A major upset as this underappreciated A&M team shocks the greatest undefeated Sooner squad in history. 1956 Texas A&M 24, 1974 Oklahoma 17

Region II Bracket Semifinals

Bracket A

IA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-4 (31) 1994 Penn St.
IIA-3 (18) 1991 Miami-FL vs. IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan

Bracket B

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-3 (23) 1954 Ohio St.
IIB-4 (26) 1979 Alabama vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M

[Huckleberry]

SECOND ROUND GAMES

Region III

Bracket A

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-9 (67) 1968 Penn St.

For the second game in a row the 2005 'Horns advance but weren't as crisp as they'd hoped to be. The competition is heating up, so they can't keep this up for long. 2005 Texas 37, 1968 Penn St. 17

IIIA-4 (30) 1951 Maryland vs. IIIA-5 (35) 1966 Alabama

One of the best contests of the tournament so far. The 1951 Terrapins are fighting to make a name for themselves. While they don't take down the Crimson Tide they succeed in legitimizing their claim to greatness with this performance. 1966 Alabama 20, 1951 Maryland 19

IIIA-3 (19) 1946 Notre Dame vs. IIIA-6 (46) 1962 Mississippi

The Rebels of the late '50s and early '60s are a forgotten SEC dynasty to many of us outside the region. As with the Terrapins the Rebels play a great game but fall in the end. 1946 Notre Dame 17, 1962 Mississippi 13

IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan vs. IIIA-7 (51) 1968 Ohio St.

The midwest anticipated this matchup and it lived up to the hype as a back-and-forth affair. The tenacious Wolverine defense was able to keep the Buckeyes out of field goal range at the end of the game to move Michigan forward. 1973 Michigan 23, 1968 Ohio St. 21

Bracket B

IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL vs. IIIB-7 (54) 1964 Arkansas

Region II continues to provide us with exciting contests as the Razorbacks take on the Hurricanes. This time it's Arkansas coming up just short despite a terrific performance. 2001 Miami-FL 23, 1964 Arkansas 17

IIIB-3 (22) 1986 Penn St. vs. IIIB-6 (43) 1962 Southern Cal

The nailbiters aren't over yet as the Nittany Lions face the Trojans. This one comes down to a blocked extra point and Joe Paterno is smiling once again. 1986 Penn St. 17, 1962 Southern Cal 16

IIIB-4 (27) 1973 Notre Dame vs. IIIB-5 (38) 1966 Michigan St.

The Spartans head into this game hoping to exact revenge for the famous tie. It's not to be, though, as the Irish hold on for what seems almost like a comfortable win for Region II. 1973 Notre Dame 23, 1966 Michigan St. 16

IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-9 (70) 1970 Nebraska

The good games can't last forever, but you wouldn't anticipate one of the Cornhusker entries being on the receiving end of a good old-fashioned buttkicking. This time they are, though. 1973 Ohio St. 41, 1970 Nebraska 7

Region III Bracket Semifinals

Bracket A

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-5 (35) 1966 Alabama
IIIA-3 (19) 1946 Notre Dame vs. IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan

Bracket B

IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL vs. IIIB-3 (22) 1986 Penn St.
IIIB-4 (27) 1973 Notre Dame vs. IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St.

[Huckleberry]

SECOND ROUND GAMES

Region IV

Bracket A

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-9 (68) 1990 Georgia Tech

The Yellowjackets have everyone believing in the upset for most of the game but the '87 Hurricanes have just enough to finish them off late. We almost lost our first top four seed. 1987 Miami-FL 23, 1990 Georgia Tech 22

IVA-4 (29) 1955 Oklahoma vs. IVA-5 (36) 1957 Auburn

The '57 Tigers' defense allowed only 2.3 points per game throughout their season and the '55 Sooners never completely solve it. The Tigers put enough points up to advance. 1957 Auburn 20, 1955 Oklahoma 10

IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska vs. IVA-11 (84) 1975 Arkansas St.

There will be no Cinderella run as a first-round upset of 2002 Ohio St. is as much as ASU can muster. Nebraska runs roughshod over them in a laugher. 1997 Nebraska 41, 1975 Arkansas St. 10

IVA-2 (13) 1966 Notre Dame vs. IVA-10 (77) 1992 Michigan

The talk about the three ties seems like ages ago. The Wolverines are proving they belong and this time the play-for-a-tie Irish are the victims in a big upset. 1992 Michigan 23, 1966 Notre Dame 21

Bracket B

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-7 (53) 1975 Arizona St.

This game plays pretty much to form and the outcome is never really in doubt as the Sun Devils simply can't move the ball effectively enough. 1992 Alabama 28, 1975 Arizona St. 10

IVB-3 (21) 2000 Oklahoma vs. IVB-6 (44) 1963 Texas

The Red River Rivalry is in full bloom as two squads that used that stage to propel themselves to greatness take the field. Both teams play admirably but the Sooners leave the field victorious on this day. 2000 Oklahoma 21, 1963 Texas 17

IVB-4 (28) 1981 Clemson vs. IVB-5 (37) 1947 Notre Dame

The Tigers are slight favorites coming in but have a surprisingly easy time with the '47 Irish. Clemson could be a darkhorse, they've won their first two games by a combined 74-3. 1981 Clemson 30, 1947 Notre Dame 3

IVB-1 (5) 1972 Southern Cal vs. IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA

Our second top eight seed falls and once again it's a current conference foe doing the damage. The Bruins storm out to a surprising lead and the Trojans simply don't have time to get it all back. 1954 UCLA 28, 1972 Southern Cal 20

Region III Bracket Semifinals

Bracket A

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-5 (36) 1957 Auburn
IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska vs. IVA-10 (77) 1992 Michigan

Bracket B

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-3 (21) 2000 Oklahoma
IVB-4 (28) 1981 Clemson vs. IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA

-------------------------------------------------------

Bracket semifinals will be run tomorrow.

[Dawgfan1980]

That '91 UW team was dominate. Even Herschel would have had issues running against this team. Remember, the seniors on that team were the freshmen that held Emmit Smith to 17 yards in the Freedom Bowl in '87. Great job though. And for everyone that thinks I'm a homer, well, I am. That's the team that also went into Lincoln and won, and beat a very good Cal team. Glad to see no East Coast bias in this simulation. KUTGW!

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET SEMIFINALS

Region I

Bracket A

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-4 (32) 1998 Tennessee

Their tournament run over, the Volunteers have no reason to hang their heads as they offer this Cornhusker juggernaut their first true test. 1971 Nebraska 30, 1998 Tennessee 17

IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama vs. IA-10 (80) 1948 Notre Dame

Having advanced this far thanks in part to Rutgers' first round upset, the Fighting Irish acquit themselves well but the statistically best defense in the tournament wins out in the end. 1961 Alabama 17, 1948 Notre Dame 16

Bracket B

IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-3 (24) 1959 Syracuse

After struggling with Central Michigan in their opener the Seminoles make it two laughers in a row, dominating a solid Orangemen squad from start to finish. 1999 Florida St. 38, 1959 Syracuse 10

IB-1 (8) 1988 Notre Dame vs. IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska

Yet another Nebraska entry looks great as the greatest Irish team falls in the bracket semifinals. 1994 Nebraska 28, 1988 Notre Dame 17

Region I Bracket Finals:

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama
IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET SEMIFINALS

Region II

Bracket A

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-4 (31) 1994 Penn St.

Not even this Washington defense can completely stifle the Nittany Lions but their offense does more than enough to get the job done as the Huskies advance to the Sweet 16. 1991 Washington 34, 1994 Penn St. 25

IIA-3 (18) 1991 Miami-FL vs. IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan

Michigan's upset over 2004 Southern Cal in the previous round leaves us only one result away from the historic matchup we all want to see, 1991 Washington vs. 1991 Miami. The Wolverines, though, are the one team that can do something about it and that's exactly what they do, smothering the Hurricanes offense. 1948 Michigan 24, 1991 Miami-FL 11

Bracket B

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-3 (23) 1954 Ohio St.

The Buckeye defense comes out very physical and puts on a great performance but a late Tommie Frazier touchdown run puts this one away. The 'Huskers are truly tested but advance. 1995 Nebraska 30, 1954 Ohio St. 20

IIB-4 (26) 1979 Alabama vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M

The Cornuskers' opponent in the bracket final will not be one that anybody had foreseen as the Aggies pull off their third straight upset, this one over the Crimson Tide. 1956 Texas A&M 21, 1979 Alabama 13

Region II Bracket Finals:

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan
IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET SEMIFINALS

Region III

Bracket A

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-5 (35) 1966 Alabama

After shutting out their first round opponent and holding 1951 Maryland to 19 in their second game, there was talk about 1966 Alabama (4 ppg allowed) shutting down the Longhorns. While they played well, the 31 points they gave up must have seemed like what 50 would feel like to a modern day team. 2005 Texas 31, 1966 Alabama 17

IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan vs. IIIA-3 (19) 1946 Notre Dame

The '46 Irish had been living dangerously without an offense and it finally caught up with them. The Wolverines were able to put enough points on the board to relax near the end of this one. 1973 Michigan 24, 1946 Notre Dame 10

Bracket B

IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL vs. IIIB-3 (22) 1986 Penn St.

There was plenty of intrigue surrounding this game as the 1986 Nittany Lions once again took the field against a Hurricane team. This time, though, the Hurricanes had the chip on their shoulder and it showed. This was a no-doubter. 2001 Miami-FL 38, 1986 Penn St. 7

IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-4 (27) 1973 Notre Dame

A battle of contemporaries becomes a classic as the Buckeyes and Irish face off. The game is in doubt until the very end, but the Buckeyes prevail and set up our first region to have the bracket finals go according to seed. 1973 Ohio St. 24, 1973 Notre Dame 20

Region III Bracket Finals:

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan
IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET SEMIFINALS

Region IV

Bracket A

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-5 (36) 1957 Auburn

This Hurricane team is taking survive and advance to a whole new level. After inexplicably struggling with 1956 Wyoming in their opener they have now won two straight games by a single point. 1987 Miami-FL 17, 1957 Auburn 16

IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska vs. IVA-10 (77) 1992 Michigan

You can't deny that they've done what's asked of them but the 1997 'Huskers are in the Sweet 16 without playing a team higher seeded than the 77th overall seed Wolverines. 1997 Nebraska 37, 1992 Michigan 21

Bracket B

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-3 (21) 2000 Oklahoma

Alabama's incredible defense never allows the Sooners to get things going and the game is over shortly after it begins. 1992 Alabama 34, 2000 Oklahoma 10

IVB-4 (28) 1981 Clemson vs. IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA

After shocking the '72 Trojans the Bruins show they aren't finished yet as they pull off another upset over the Tigers. 1954 UCLA 21, 1981 Clemson 17

Region IV Bracket Finals:

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska
IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA

[Huckleberry]

And now the bracket finals, the Sweet 16 of our tournament. Both the bracket finals and regional finals will run at some point today so we will head into Monday with our final four.

BRACKET FINALS

Region I

Bracket A Final

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IA-3 (17) 1961 Alabama

Preview: This game shapes up as a classic. While the Cornhuskers have been and will be a solid favorite over any team except their 1995 colleagues, the 1961 Crimson Tide offers up the stingiest defense in the tournament. In 1961 Alabama allowed an absurd 2.27 points per game and nobody scored more than 7. You have to favore Nebraska here but it's hard to imagine a blowout.

Result: Not used to yielding so many points in a game, the Crimson Tide refuses to pack it in and fights tooth and nail with the 'Huskers at every turn. One of the best games of the tournament is eventually decided by a Johnny Rodgers punt return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, as if there could be any other way. 1971 Nebraska 23, 1961 Alabama 16

Bracket B Final

IB-2 (9) 1999 Florida St. vs. IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska

Preview: The only team to represent the great Seminole dynasty of the '80s and '90s takes on the first of two consecutive entries from Nebraska. Florida State's 18-16 win over Nebraska in January of 1994 was the only thing that prevented three straight undefeated years from Nebraska. There's plenty of history heading into this one.

Result: The 'Huskers get their revenge for the previous year's team that lost to Florida St. in the Orange Bowl and eliminate Bobby Bowden's only entry. It's an all-Nebraska final in Region I. 1994 Nebraska 30, 1999 Florida St. 21

REGION I FINAL

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET FINALS

Region II

Bracket A Final

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIA-7 (50) 1948 Michigan

Preview: Having prevented the matchup everyone wanted to see, the '48 Wolverines look to extend their upset string to 3. The Huskies have yet to put a complete performance together and are looking to prime themselves for a possible final against regional favorite 1995 Nebraska.

Result: The Huskies still won't be pleased with their overall showing, but they've advanced to the point everyone expected. 1991 Washington 23, 1948 Michigan 17

Bracket B Final

IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska vs. IIB-9 (71) 1956 Texas A&M

Preview: For the third game in a row the Aggies aren't given much of a chance against their heavily favored opponent. The Cornhuskers may be a #2 seed in their own bracket but absolutely nobody is willing to bet big against an eventual regional title.

Result: The magic runs out for this great A&M team and the 'Huskers win in a rout. 1995 Nebraska 48, 1956 Texas A&M 3

REGION II FINAL

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET FINALS

Region III

Bracket A

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIA-2 (14) 1973 Michigan

Preview: Region III offers two separate interesting scenarios on the regional final. If Texas and Miami win it will set up a BCS-Era championship game. If Michigan and Ohio St. win it will set up a rematch to finally decide the 1973 Big Ten season once and for all.

Result: Early on it's clear that the 1973 Big Ten will remain undecided. Texas puts on the performance they've been waiting for and rolls over the Wolverines. 2005 Texas 40, 1973 Michigan 13

Bracket B

IIIB-1 (6) 1973 Ohio St. vs. IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL

Preview: Having seen the fate the Wolverines were up against the Buckeye fans declare that a win here will decide the debate in their favor. The Hurricanes aren't happy with the bluster and many of their players are still upset over the loss to Ohio St. in the following year's Fiesta Bowl.

Result: Neither side appears to have an edge throughout most of the game but in the end the Hurricanes pull away and set up the BCS-era tilt with the Longhorns. 2001 Miami 28, 1973 Ohio St. 20

REGION III FINAL

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL

[Huckleberry]

BRACKET FINALS

Region IV

Bracket A

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVA-3 (20) 1997 Nebraska

Preview: This Hurricanes team has been living on the edge all tournament and will need to play better against Nebraska as the '97 'Huskers look to give their school an amazing fourth team in the Regional Finals.

Result: Miami fans rejoice as their team finally plays up to their ability and gives the Hurricanes a second team in the round of 8. 1987 Miami-FL 35, 1997 Nebraska 17

Bracket B

IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama vs. IVB-8 (60) 1954 UCLA

Preview: After shocking bracket favorite 1972 Southern Cal the Bruins followed up with a solid win over 1981 Clemson. Alabama, meanwhile, dominated a very strong 2000 Oklahoma squad to get here.

Result: The Tide keeps rolling and the Bruins Cinderella story comes to an abrupt conclusion. 1992 Alabama 31, 1954 UCLA 8

REGION IV FINAL

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama

[Huckleberry]

A comment before the Regional Finals:

I'm a little disappointed that the older squads are now gone. No team from before 1971 is still alive and only two from before the '90s. There was nothing in the setup to favor this, just the outcome of the random number simulations.

[hoopsguy]

Enjoying the thread, although I would like to see Nebraska lose a game every once in awhile. I'm sure you aren't enjoying that part either as a Texas fan ...

[Huckleberry]

REGION I FINAL

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IB-4 (25) 1994 Nebraska

Preview: The pretournament favorites take on a later version as it's Devaney vs. Osborne. The '71 version is heavily favored.

Result: Osborne's familiarity with the system pays huge dividends as the '94 'Huskers are in the game from beginning to end. It's not enough, though, as the 1971 juggernaut moves on. 1971 Nebraska 27, 1994 Nebraska 23

[Huckleberry]

REGION II FINAL

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIB-2 (10) 1995 Nebraska

Preview: This should be a slugfest as the Huskies are more than a little peeved about being a solid underdog against the lower seed Cornhuskers. For their part the 'Huskers have been playing all tournament in a bitter frenzy because of the selection rules situation that moved them from the #2 overall seed to the second seed in their own bracket.

Result: The game was even better than the anticipation if that's possible. The titanic struggle between the Nebraska offense and Washington defense was everything we'd hoped for as both left the field knowing they had just finished battling their equal. There were tears on both sidelines after the game, but the tears of exhausted joy belonged to Washington after a hard-fought upset. 1991 Washington 31, 1995 Nebraska 27

[Huckleberry]

REGION III FINAL

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IIIB-2 (11) 2001 Miami-FL

Preview: Since winning the Rose Bowl over Nebraska this Hurricane squad has gone on to win 12 more in a row before falling to Ohio St., be annointed perhaps the greatest dynasty of all time, be stripped by the fickle media of that title in favor of Southern Cal, then be stripped by every computer system of the title as greatest team of the BCS era by this Texas team. Public opinion is split on the outcome of this game as general feeling holds that Miami is a better team top to bottom but the Longhorns get the ball in the hands of their best player on every offensive snap.

Result: The game is not as close as anticipated as the Longhorns get an early score off a turnover and by the time the game turns into the back-and-forth battle that was expected the Hurricanes are too far behind. 2005 Texas 38, 2001 Miami-FL 21

[Huckleberry]

REGION IV FINAL

IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL vs. IVB-2 (12) 1992 Alabama

Preview: When you're a great program for as long and consistently as Miami has been a tournament like this presents many payback opportunities. This game is no different as the 1987 edition seeks to even the score with the 1992 Crimson Tide team that put an end to a 29-game Hurricane winning streak.

Result: The 'Canes quickly realize that the Tide defense was no fluke as they struggle early almost as badly as the '92 team did in the Sugar Bowl that year. The difference comes down to an equally inspiring performance from the Miami defense as Hurricane fans everywhere smile as '92 Alabama is finally vanquished. 1987 Miami-FL 24, 1992 Alabama 17

[Huckleberry]

FINAL FOUR

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL
IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas

After all the upsets and strange turns, the final four ends up going according to seed even though the Huskies were not their regional favorite despite the top seed. I ran a few simulations only up to this stage and this did not happen again in ten trials. But this is the one that counted for this thread and so the stage is set.

I had originally planned on running this tomorrow but if I have time later today I will get it done.

[Dawgfan1980]

That UW team had enough speed to stop Vince Young and move on. I've never seen a team more dominate on D then the '91 squad, and with Greg Lewis, and a young Napoleon Kaufman, plus two NFL QB's (B.J. Hobert and Mark Brunell), the offense wasn't half bad either. There does seem to be a bit of a bias though toward later teams (stat adjustments maybe?) but hopefully the UW moves on, if not, hell, I'd take 4th place, as long as everyone knows who the '91 champ really was (that split crap was utter BS). Go Dawgs!

[Huckleberry]

SEMIFINALS

Region I vs. Region IV

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL

Preview: The 1971 Nebraska defense was by far the best in the nation and they were backed up by an offense second only to Oklahoma's that year. The meeting of those two teams produced a classic, but Nebraska prevailed in Norman. The 1987 Hurricanes, meanwhile, were a balanced squad with equally strong units. Their close call came against Florida St. in Tallahassee and was decided by a single point before Miami went on to beat Oklahoma for the national title.

Result: The Cornhuskers are a heavy favorite and they play like it. Miami's offense can never get rolling while Nebraska gets it moving early and often thanks to Johnny Rodgers' multifaceted performance. The pretournament favorite is now only one win away from the title. 1971 Nebraska 34, 1987 Miami-FL 13

Region II vs. Region III

IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington vs. IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas

Preview: Unlike the first semifinal this one is a tossup heading in. The Huskies are led by a well-publicized powerful defense but are backed up by an under-publicized yet strong offense while the Longhorns are the opposite.

Result: The Huskies' offense wins the battle of the day and puts up just enough to keep the game out of Vince Young's reach. 1991 Washington 33, 2005 Texas 27

Third place playoff:

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL

Championship game:

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington

[Huckleberry]

THIRD PLACE PLAYOFF

IIIA-1 (3) 2005 Texas vs. IVA-1 (4) 1987 Miami-FL

Both teams are disappointed to be in this game having just lost their first games after 18 and 17 wins. But the Longhorns show up a little more prepared to play and end the tournament on a high note. 2005 Texas 34, 1987 Miami-FL 24

[Huckleberry]

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

IA-1 (1) 1971 Nebraska vs. IIA-1 (2) 1991 Washington

The game that the seeds said to expect was made possible thanks to Washington's huge win over the 1995 Cornhuskers. But this time they'll need an even bigger shocker to take the title. It's not in the cards, though, as the 1971 Nebraska powerhouse keeps on rolling and this game is decided well before the end. Congratulations to the Cornhuskers.

1971 Nebraska 35, 1991 Washington 13

[Crim]

Fun read, Huck. For my money, I've been following college football pretty closely for about 23 years, and the '95 Huskers were the finest team in all three phases I've ever seen.

Painful admission, btw, as I am a Gator fan...

[Dawgfan1980]

Good run for the UW, and that '71 team was dominate. It is hard to compare though due to the differences in the sizes of players from then to now and the depth of the squads (No limit on scholarships then) but great job on the dynasty!

[Huckleberry]

I'm running through some more simulations to see how many teams win it, etc.

Obviously I could just figure out each team's mathematical likelihood of winning the tournament, but that would just be the same as the ratings above in descending order. I think I'll run 100 tournaments and give a report.

[Huckleberry]

I modified my spreadsheet to be able to auto-sim multiple tournaments and I ran a set of 100 today. Here are some results:

Championships:

1971 Nebraska 37
1995 Nebraska 35
2005 Texas 6
1991 Washington 3
1987 Miami (FL) 2
1972 Southern Cal 2
1974 Oklahoma 2
1973 Michigan 2
1961 Alabama 2
1986 Penn St. 2
1992 Alabama 1
1966 Notre Dame 1
1976 Pittsburgh 1
1946 Notre Dame 1
1994 Nebraska 1
1998 Tennessee 1
1962 Southern Cal 1

Final Four Appearances:

1971 Nebraska 67
1995 Nebraska 65
1987 Miami (FL) 25
1973 Ohio St. 22
2005 Texas 21
1972 Southern Cal 19
1991 Washington 15
1992 Alabama 15
2001 Miami (FL) 13
2000 Oklahoma 11
1966 Notre Dame 10
1988 Notre Dame 10
1973 Michigan 8
1986 Penn St. 8
1997 Nebraska 8
1974 Oklahoma 7
1976 Pittsburgh 6
1961 Alabama 5
1966 Alabama 5
1973 Notre Dame 5
1946 Notre Dame 4
1999 Florida St. 4
2004 Southern Cal 3
1959 Syracuse 3
1966 Michigan St. 3
1994 Nebraska 2
1962 Southern Cal 2
1991 Miami (FL) 2
1979 Alabama 2
1981 Clemson 2
1955 Oklahoma 2
1951 Maryland 2
1994 Penn St. 2
1957 Auburn 2
2004 Auburn 2
1962 Mississippi 2
2002 Ohio St. 2
1963 Texas 2
1968 Ohio St. 2
1998 Tennessee 1
1954 Ohio St. 1
1973 Oklahoma 1
1947 Notre Dame 1
1949 Notre Dame 1
1964 Arkansas 1
1975 Arizona St. 1
1969 Texas 1
1968 Penn St. 1
1958 Auburn 1

Regional Finals Appearances:

1995 Nebraska 74
1971 Nebraska 71
1991 Washington 45
1987 Miami (FL) 42
2005 Texas 36
1973 Ohio St. 35
1988 Notre Dame 35
1992 Alabama 33
1972 Southern Cal 30
2001 Miami (FL) 28
1999 Florida St. 27
2000 Oklahoma 21
1966 Notre Dame 21
1991 Miami (FL) 20
1986 Penn St. 16
1946 Notre Dame 16
1973 Michigan 15
1974 Oklahoma 14
2004 Southern Cal 14
1959 Syracuse 14
1997 Nebraska 11
1976 Pittsburgh 11
1961 Alabama 11
1951 Maryland 11
2004 Auburn 9
1973 Oklahoma 9
1966 Alabama 8
1973 Notre Dame 8
1957 Auburn 8
1962 Mississippi 8
1994 Nebraska 7
1955 Oklahoma 7
1962 Southern Cal 6
1994 Penn St. 6
2002 Ohio St. 6
1981 Clemson 5
1947 Notre Dame 5
1969 Penn St. 5
1966 Michigan St. 4
1979 Alabama 4
1998 Tennessee 4
1954 Ohio St. 4
1946 Georgia 4
1963 Texas 3
1968 Ohio St. 3
1949 Notre Dame 3
1947 Michigan 3
2004 Utah 3
1964 Arkansas 2
1975 Arizona St. 2
1968 Penn St. 2
1953 Notre Dame 2
1958 LSU 2
1969 Texas 1
1958 Auburn 1
1948 Michigan 1
1980 Georgia 1
1951 Michigan St. 1
1947 Penn St. 1
1950 Clemson 1